In a recent development, Cuban boxer Damián Lescaille has been apprehended in the United States on charges related to the possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription. The incident occurred in Brandon, Mississippi on August 25, 2025, at 9:36 p.m. Lescaille is now facing two counts of possessing a controlled substance, categorized under schedules III, IV, or V.
The Brandon Sheriff's Office reported that Lescaille's bail was set at $100,000 for the first charge and an additional $20,000 for the second. According to Jorge Ebro, a boxing journalist for El Nuevo Herald, these allegations could significantly jeopardize the future of the 26-year-old athlete. "This is a severe setback since he had a promising career ahead. We hope the situation is resolved, allowing him to continue his career," a source close to Lescaille shared with Ebro.
Despite this incident, Lescaille had not participated in a match since October 2023 and had taken up truck driving. His legal team is expected to gain more insights into the allegations against this Camagüey native by next Tuesday. Lescaille arrived in the U.S. in 2020, seeking new opportunities.
In a related incident earlier in August, another Cuban boxer, Billy Rodríguez, who won a Pan American medal, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Miami. Rodríguez, aged 28, was on parole under the I-220A immigration status, awaiting a court date in 2027 to apply for political asylum. His arrest has raised concerns among his family and sports network, fearing potential deportation to Cuba where he might face consequences for defecting.
Rodríguez defected from a Cuban delegation during an international competition in Mexico in August 2022, eventually crossing into the U.S. in pursuit of freedom and professional growth.
Legal Challenges Faced by Cuban Boxers in the U.S.
What charges is Damián Lescaille facing?
Damián Lescaille is facing two charges of possessing controlled substances categorized under schedules III, IV, or V without a valid prescription.
Why was Billy Rodríguez detained by ICE?
Billy Rodríguez was detained by ICE while on parole under the I-220A immigration status as he awaited a court date to apply for political asylum.
What implications could these arrests have for the boxers' careers?
These arrests could severely impact the boxers' careers, as legal challenges and potential deportation could hinder their ability to compete and pursue professional opportunities in the U.S.