Masked Wrestlers and Chrome Cars Unite to Fight Child Abduction in Simi Valley
Sylvie Belmond 
Lucha Libre returns June 14 with spectacle and purpose, raising funds and awareness for families facing trauma
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — “Simi Lucha Libre 2” is more than just a night of masked wrestlers, roaring fans and chrome-detailed cars. For the Ortiz family and Kid Gloves Boxing Foundation, it’s a mission to bring attention—and help—to families impacted by child abduction and trauma.
Ortiz Sr. said the event is about raising awareness of what families go through during traumatic situations involving their children—whether it’s separation, emotional crisis or the aftermath of a frightening experience. “It takes a big toll on the whole family,” he said. “We just want to help others going through something like this.”
This year’s fundraiser was sparked by what happened to Ortiz Sr.’s 7-year-old grandson, Bane, who was taken late last year by his mother, described by the family as a noncustodial parent. According to a February post by AV News Crew, U.S. Marshals located Bane in Imperial County and took his mother into custody. The boy was released to his father and brought safely home after more than three months.
Bane now attends therapy to help him process what happened.
“We’re very blessed to have the means to do that,” Ortiz Sr. said. “But if families don’t have money for flyers, or they need to see a psychiatrist, those are the kinds of things this fundraiser can help with.”
Set for Saturday, June 14, at the Simi Valley Town Center, “Simi Lucha Libre 2” will feature live Lucha Libre wrestling in collaboration with the Pro Wrestling Alliance, a classic car show and family-friendly entertainment. All proceeds support Kid Gloves Boxing Foundation’s programs for youth, families and veterans.
Tickets are $25 general admission or $40 ringside in advance, with higher prices at the door. VIP tables for eight are available for $600.
According to its website, Kid Gloves Boxing Foundation began nearly 30 years ago when founder Robert Ortiz Sr. started a boxing program in his backyard. A Marine Corps veteran, Ortiz Sr. created a space where young people could gain confidence, discipline and structure. The program grew into a nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk youth and supporting veterans through wellness and mentorship.
Now based in Center Court at the Simi Valley Town Center, the foundation continues to serve the community through boxing and outreach programs. As the website notes, it “provides troubled youth an opportunity to experience personal success”—a mission that continues to expand with every round.
Ortiz Sr. reflected on Father’s Day with emotion and pride.
“I’m not just a dad, I’m a grandfather,” he said.
His son, Robert “Scrappy” Ortiz Jr., is a professional fighter and father of three—Bane, Timothy, 26, and Teagan, who just turned 14.
Ortiz Jr. became a father at 16 and said being a parent has shaped every part of his life. The experience of losing contact with Bane, even temporarily, reinforced his resolve to be fully present—to be the kind of father who shows up for every moment.
“Just seeing their smile—life—I didn’t realize how precious that is until Bane was gone,” Ortiz Jr. said. “Now that he’s back, I see everything differently.”
“Being a father, being able to show things and pass on things—it means everything to me,” he said.
Ortiz Jr. comes from five generations of professional boxers. He said he plans to retire from the ring soon and focus on training both professionals and amateurs.
As for Bane, “He’s doing really well,” Ortiz Jr. said. “Back to his happy self, finally getting back to himself. He went through a lot of traumatic things.”
“We’re all about helping families and turning kids around,” Ortiz Sr. said. “I’m so blessed.”
Last year’s inaugural Lucha Libre event drew strong community support, and this year’s edition is expected to do the same—with a renewed sense of purpose.
To buy tickets or learn more, visit kidglovesboxingfoundation.org.
