Loren Berto Alfonso, a Cuban boxer representing Azerbaijan in the Paris 2024 Olympics, offered heartfelt words on Sunday to the country where he was born and developed as an athlete. He also praised the quality of his compatriot Julio César La Cruz just minutes after defeating him by split decision.
"Everything I have achieved in boxing, I owe it to Cuba," Alfonso told the accredited press at the Olympic Games, as reported by special correspondent Guillermo Rodríguez on Facebook. On his 29th birthday, the bronze medalist from Tokyo 2020 secured one of the most significant results of his career. "This victory is also for the Cuban people," added the athlete, who competes in the 92-kilogram category. "I arrived in Azerbaijan as a well-established boxer. This time, it was my turn to win," said Alfonso, originally from Pinar del Río and a world champion in the 86-kilogram division.
Regarding his opponent, Alfonso said, "La Cruz has always been my idol since I started in the sport; I've always wanted to be like him." He also described La Cruz as "the best of all time" and encouraged Cubans to follow his matches and support him on his journey to Olympic glory, which seems within reach after his impressive debut.
La Cruz, meanwhile, bid farewell to the possibility of securing his third title at this level, after winning in Rio de Janeiro 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Despite the passage of three years, the memory of when "La Sombra" shouted "Patria y Vida no, ¡Patria o Muerte, Venceremos!" after defeating his compatriot Enmanuel Reyes Pla, who competed for Spain in Tokyo 2020, still lingers.
In a twist of fate, Reyes Pla dominated Chinese boxer Han Xuezhen, advancing to the quarterfinals and now has a shot at the bronze medal in the same division.
FAQs about Loren Berto Alfonso and His Recent Victory
Here are some frequently asked questions about Loren Berto Alfonso's recent victory and his career, providing insights into his motivations and future prospects.
Why did Loren Berto Alfonso dedicate his victory to Cuba?
Loren Berto Alfonso dedicated his victory to Cuba because he credits his success in boxing to the training and development he received in his home country.
What did Loren Berto Alfonso say about Julio César La Cruz?
Alfonso praised Julio César La Cruz, calling him his idol and "the best of all time." He expressed his admiration and encouraged Cubans to continue supporting La Cruz.
How has Enmanuel Reyes Pla performed in the recent competition?
Enmanuel Reyes Pla advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Chinese boxer Han Xuezhen, giving him a chance to compete for the bronze medal in his division.