Cuban boxing has once again asserted its global dominance by clinching every title contested by its athletes at the 45th Independence Cup in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
According to the pro-government site Cubadebate, all four male boxers representing the island ascended to the top of the podium, underscoring the strength of their athletes.
Men's Division Triumph
In the 60-kilogram category, Saidel Horta outperformed Dominican Yohan Agüero with a 4-1 decision in a match that some spectators deemed closely contested. Nevertheless, the Cuban boxer showcased superior technical skills, better punch selection, and effective distance control, tipping the scales in his favor.
Meanwhile, Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez (65 kg) secured a victory by RSC in the second round against local fighter Javier Valdés. Although Valdés managed to land a few effective punches, the Cuban's experience made the difference. Álvarez knocked his opponent down twice, prompting the referee to halt the fight.
In the 90-kilogram division, Nelson William triumphed 4-1 over Guatemalan Miguel Alejandro Teo in a contest that was more tactical than explosive. William adeptly maintained the fight at a medium and long distance, effectively neutralizing his opponent's attempts to close in.
The crowning achievement came from double Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz, who delivered a flawless performance against Dominican Agustín Tisert. With his usual speed and refined technique, La Cruz convincingly dominated the bout, winning 5-0 and concluding Cuba's male performance with authority.
Flawless Day for Cuban Women
The female team was equally successful. All three Cuban female boxers who competed in the finals returned home with gold medals.
Dayira Mesa (70 kg) defeated Dominican Arisleidis Tavares 5-0.
Yoana Rodríguez (75 kg) won 5-0 against Kimberly Gittens from Barbados.
Magda Massó (57 kg) achieved a 5-0 victory over local Genesis de la Rosa, securing the first gold of the day for Cuba.
Cuba Emerges as Team Champion
These results crowned Cuba as the champion of the 45th Independence Cup, leading the team standings with 31 points, followed by the Dominican Republic (29) and Guatemala (12).
The tournament brought together boxers from eight countries and reinforced its status as one of the most traditional amateur boxing events in the region. Beyond its historical prestige, the competition served as an essential preparation for the qualifiers scheduled for March in Mexico, ahead of the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo.
Throughout the event, the Cuban team enjoyed support from members of the Cuban community residing in Santiago de los Caballeros, led by the president of the Máximo Gómez Association, Enrique Portuondo, and Cuba's ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Ángel Arzuaga.
Once again, Cuban boxing proved that within the ring, it remains synonymous with dominance and a winning tradition.
Cuban Boxing Success at the Independence Cup
How did Cuban boxers perform at the 45th Independence Cup?
Cuban boxers dominated the event by winning all the titles contested by their representatives, showcasing their skill and superiority in the sport.
Who were some of the standout Cuban boxers at the tournament?
Notable performances included Saidel Horta, Erislandy Álvarez, Nelson William, and Julio César La Cruz, each demonstrating remarkable skill and technique.
What was the significance of the Independence Cup for Cuban boxing?
The Independence Cup was significant as it provided preparation for the qualifiers in Mexico for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games, further solidifying Cuba's dominance in amateur boxing.