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The National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (INDER) took a key step in the entry of Cuban boxing into professionalism by signing an agreement with the promoter AGON Sports & Events GmbH.
The idea is to ensure the participation of boxers in both national and international events, which will provide much more lucrative financial opportunities for several of the top fighters on the island.
As part of this agreement, Roniel Iglesias (71 kg), a two-time Olympic champion, and Jorge Soto (80 kg) will compete on February 28 in a professional boxing card in Yoshkar-Ola, Russia.
Although his opponents have not yet been confirmed, the president of the Cuban Boxing Federation, Alberto Puig de la Barca, assured JIT of their presence and announced that Iglesias will have another professional fight on March 7 in Russian territory.
In April, the Paris 2024 titleholder Erislandy Álvarez (63.5 kg) will compete in the semifinals of the International Boxing Association (IBA) Professional World Cup in Beijing, China.
Álvarez, a young man overflowing with talent, will face the Tajik Bakhodur Usmonov in an eight-round fight, after having defeated the Kazakh Adilet Kurmetov last November.
Regarding the topic, journalist Aníbal Oliva stated on his social media: “What stands out the most is that Agon Sports is the same promoter behind the Scull vs. Canelo fight, which suggests that Cuban boxing could gain more presence on the big stages.”
"So, while the Canelo vs. Scull matchup is being confirmed, this collaboration between AGON Sports and INDER opens new doors for boxing in Cuba and the world," added the specialist based in Miami, United States.
This agreement marks a new phase in Cuban boxing, aimed at expanding its reach into professionalism while preserving the essence that has made the island a historic powerhouse in the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions about the INDER partnership with AGON Sports and the future of Cuban boxing
What does the alliance between INDER and AGON Sports mean for Cuban boxing?
The alliance aims to ensure the participation of Cuban boxers in national and international events, which will allow them to access better financial rewards and increase their presence in professional boxing. This collaboration represents a significant step toward the professionalization of boxing in Cuba.
Which Cuban boxers will be participating in international fights soon thanks to this agreement?
Roniel Iglesias and Jorge Soto will participate in a professional boxing card in Yoshkar-Ola, Russia, on February 28, and Erislandy Álvarez will compete in the semifinals of the IBA Professional World Cup in Beijing, China, in April. These participations are part of the benefits of the agreement with AGON Sports.
How does AGON Sports' involvement influence the matchup between William Scull and Canelo Álvarez?
AGON Sports is the promoter behind the fight between William Scull and Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez, suggesting that the agreement with INDER could facilitate more high-level opportunities for Cuban boxers in the future. This matchup will take place on May 3rd in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
What impact does this agreement have on the history of Cuban boxing?
This agreement marks a new stage in Cuban boxing, allowing the island's boxers to venture into professionalism without losing the essence that has made Cuba a powerhouse in the sport. Participation in professional leagues and prestigious events is a significant change for Cuban boxing.
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