Chavez bows out on top

Chavez lost to Randall in 1994 but won the rematch

Ring legend Julio Cesar Chavez beat arch-rival Frankie Randall in Mexico City on Saturday to bring his 24-year career to an end.

The 41-year-old won by unanimous points decision to bring his final record to 106 wins, five losses and two draws, with world titles at three weights.

Chavez lost his first career fight to Randall in a title defence in 1994 but won the rematch.

"Thank you for so much love, affection and so much applause," he told fans.

Chavez made his professional debut in February 1980 and went on to win World Boxing Council titles in the super featherweight, lightweight and light welterweight divisions.

Dubbed "JC", Chavez has a loyal following among millions of fans across Latin America, and in the Mexican community in the United States.

Among those paying tribute to the fighter were his sons, Julio Jr, who won his eighth professional fight on the undercard on Saturday, and Omar, who fought an amateur exhibition match.

"I feel very proud of my father," the 18-year-old Julio Jr said.

"I wanted to win by knockout tonight to honor the family name."