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The Cuban boxing once again demonstrated its international prominence by winning all the titles contested by its representatives at the 45th Independence Boxing Cup, held in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
According to the official site Cubadebate, the four male boxers who represented the island ascended to the top of the podium, confirming the strength of their representatives.
Dominance in the male sector
In the 60 kilograms, Saidel Horta defeated the Dominican Yohan Agüero by a vote of 4-1 in a match that some spectators considered close. However, the Cuban exhibited greater technical dominance, better shot selection, and control of distance, factors that tipped the scales in his favor.
On his part, Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez (65 kg) won by RSC in the second round against the local Javier Valdés. Although the Dominican managed to land some effective punches, the Cuban's experience made a significant difference. Álvarez sent his opponent to the canvas twice, which compelled the referee to stop the fight.
In the 90-kilogram division, Nelson William defeated the Guatemalan Miguel Alejandro Teo 4-1 in a bout that was more tactical than explosive. William managed to keep the fight at mid and long range, neutralizing his opponent's attempts to close the distance.
The grand finale was provided by double Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz, who delivered an impeccable performance against the Dominican Agustín Tisert. With his usual speed and refined technique, La Cruz clearly dominated the match and secured victory by 5-0, concluding Cuba's men's competition with authority.
Perfect day for Cuban women
The women's team also did not disappoint. The three Cuban boxers who competed in the finals returned with gold medals.
Dayira Mesa (70 kg) defeated the Dominican Arisleidis Tavares 5-0.
Yoana Rodríguez (75 kg) defeated Kimberly Gittens from Barbados with a score of 5-0.
Magda Massó (57 kg) won 5-0 against the local Génesis de la Rosa, earning the first gold medal of the day for Cuba.
Cuba, team champion
With these results, Cuba was crowned champion of the 45th edition of the 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 events in amateur boxing in the region.
In addition to its historical prestige, the competition offered added value by serving as preparation for the qualifiers that will take place in March in Mexico, in the lead-up to the Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026.
During the event, the Cuban team received 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 the Cuban ambassador in the Dominican Republic, Ángel Arzuaga.
Once again, Cuban boxing made it clear that, within the ring, it remains synonymous with dominance and a winning tradition.
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