Yordenis Ugás, the stellar Cuban boxer, celebrated his 38th birthday this Sunday, July 14. True to his style, he took to social media to express his gratitude to those who love and admire him. "Happy birthday to me. Thanks to God for another year of life... nothing to ask for, today is a day just to be grateful for the most precious thing we have, which is life," wrote the former world champion on his Facebook page.
Known as a vocal opponent of the communist regime in his homeland, Ugás once again showed his appreciation: "Thanks always to everyone in the #TeamUgas family, which includes all of you. God, Homeland, Life, Freedom."
A Journey from Cuba to Global Stardom
Born in the province of Santiago de Cuba in 1986, Ugás quickly made a name for himself in amateur boxing. Among his many accolades, he won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and titles at the 2005 World Championships in Mianyang, the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games in Cartagena, and the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Seeking greater achievements, Ugás emigrated to the United States in March 2010. At the highest level of professional boxing, he achieved significant successes, including what some consider the most important victory in Cuban boxing history: defeating the legendary Manny Pacquiao.
It is common to see Yordenis actively supporting causes related to Cuba's political situation through his social media channels, as well as commenting on U.S. politics. Recently, the Miami, Florida resident expressed his wish for former President Donald Trump to choose Cuban-American Senator Marco Rubio as his running mate in his re-election campaign.
In Ugás's view, if Trump wins, he should appoint Rubio as Secretary of State, a role he believes is ideal for him. "It would be fantastic for me and, I believe, for our country, especially our communities that have suffered, been humiliated, and battered by communism," the boxer stated on his Facebook wall.
He emphasized that the Florida representative is highly prepared both politically and intellectually, contrasting him with Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he criticized for her perceived lack of seriousness. "And she is more remembered for laughing inappropriately than for her work," he added.
Ugás also highlighted that regimes in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua would be pressured if Rubio were in a prominent position. "The senator is one of the people who understands these issues and dictatorships the most. These dictatorships would fall, and millions of people would return to our countries to try to live not in wealth, but with some dignity," he emphasized.
On a personal note, Yordenis Ugás expressed his desire to see a Hispanic Vice President in the U.S. "And more importantly, because I am 200% pro-Cuban. I will always support my artists, my athletes, my community over anyone else. Because our wine is bitter, but it is our wine," he concluded.
Yordenis Ugás and His Impact on Boxing and Politics
To provide more insight into the life and impact of Yordenis Ugás, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
What titles has Yordenis Ugás won in his boxing career?
Yordenis Ugás has won numerous titles, including a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2005 World Championships in Mianyang, the 2006 Central American and Caribbean Games in Cartagena, and the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Why is Yordenis Ugás critical of the communist regime in Cuba?
Yordenis Ugás is critical of the communist regime in Cuba due to the suffering, humiliation, and oppression it has caused to the Cuban people. He actively supports efforts to bring about political change in Cuba.
What role does Ugás believe Marco Rubio should play in the U.S. government?
Ugás believes that Marco Rubio should be appointed as Secretary of State if Donald Trump is re-elected, as he thinks Rubio is highly prepared and understands issues related to dictatorships in Latin America.
How does Ugás view Vice President Kamala Harris?
Ugás is critical of Vice President Kamala Harris, believing she is more remembered for inappropriate laughter than for her work, and he feels she is in her position mainly because of her gender and race.