Havana, February 17 (RHC) – Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez (65 kg) secured Cuba’s only victory on the opening day of the Independence Cup Boxing Tournament.
Although he faced resistance, the star boxer displayed his skill to defeat local fighter Ángel Encarnación by split decision, taking the first step toward his predicted coronation at the tournament being held in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic.
“This was my first fight in this tournament, and it was very demanding because my opponent was fighting on his home turf. I felt quite good and grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from the fans,” he told Prensa Latina.
This Tuesday, the Cuban contingent will increase, including 2023 world silver medalist Saidel Horta (60 kg) and the previous year’s champion, Nelson Williams (90 kg).
There will also be a female presence, with Yailena Palomo (50 kg) making her international debut against the host country’s Esther Jiménez.
Cuba also registered two-time Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz (+90 kg), world championship competitors Dayira Mesa (70 kg) and Yoana Rodríguez (75 kg), and Magda Massó (57 kg).
The event serves as preparation for the qualifying tournament for the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, scheduled for March 11-16 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
