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How Living in Miami for a Year Transforms Your Speech: A Viral TikTok by Yoridán Martínez

Sunday, January 18, 2026 by Isabella Rojas

Yoridán Martínez, the Cuban athlete and creator who triumphed in Exatlón USA 2022, has recently captured the attention of TikTok audiences with a humorous video. The clip hilariously depicts the transformation—or more accurately, the "Cubanization"—of those who spend time living in Miami.

In the video, Yoridán initially presents himself with a modest appearance, speaking English in a serious manner. The text "One day in Miami" appears on screen. However, the scene quickly shifts to contrast this image: he dons a tight-fitting shirt, snug jeans, red shoes, and speaks with a fully Cuban accent. Laughing, he says, "A year in Miami, what's up. Here, Cuban pizza is delicious. You know, you don't have this waistline," humorously illustrating what many call the inevitable transformation of residing in the most Cuban city outside Cuba.

Responses poured in: "How did you fit into those jeans?" joked one user. Another added, "That waistline is achieved with croquetas and guava pastries." Comments like "You forgot the chains," "I died at the belly," and "Don't jump into this pool, it's empty" turned the video into a comedic hit.

The background track, "Mi Palón Divino" by Chocolate MC, perfectly complemented the parody that many described as "too real." "That's exactly how it is; you arrive speaking English and end up ordering pizza at the ventanita while saying 'qué vuelta,'" one follower commented, while others confirmed experiencing the same "Miami transformation."

With his usual charisma and a generous dose of self-irony, Yoridán proves that his talent for connecting with audiences extends beyond sports. In just a few seconds, he humorously and truthfully encapsulates how life in Miami can turn anyone into just another Cuban.

The Miami Transformation Phenomenon

What is the "Cubanization" effect in Miami?

The "Cubanization" effect refers to the cultural influence Miami has on its residents, especially those new to the city, where they gradually adopt Cuban customs, language, and lifestyle.

Why did Yoridán Martínez's video go viral?

Yoridán Martínez's video went viral because it humorously and accurately depicted the cultural transformation many experience in Miami, resonating with both locals and newcomers who have undergone a similar change.

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