Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel was visibly moved this Sunday after hearing the words of Cuban-born boxer Loren Berto Alfonso, who now represents Azerbaijan in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. Alfonso recently defeated his fellow countryman Julio César la Cruz in an Olympic boxing match.
After offering a few remarks to La Cruz, a boxer known for his "Patria o Muerte" stance, Díaz-Canel quickly took to the social media platform X to praise Alfonso's comments: "Honest, dignified, and moving statements from Loren Berto," he wrote.
"An emigration that respects the homeland that shaped him deserves recognition. Cuba is also part of his victory, even though he represents sister nation Azerbaijan," Díaz-Canel added, despite having his attention divided between the multi-sport event and the upcoming presidential elections in Venezuela.
The winner, Alfonso, told the accredited press, "Everything I have achieved in boxing, I owe to Cuba," and, unsurprisingly, the regime never misses an opportunity to showcase pride when something favorable is highlighted. On his 29th birthday, the bronze medalist from Tokyo 2020 achieved one of the most significant results of his career. "This victory is also for the Cuban people," added the 92-kilogram category contender, in statements published on Facebook.
"I arrived in Azerbaijan as a fully trained boxer. This time, it was my turn to win," stated the world champion in the 86-kilogram division. Speaking about 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."
Alfonso also described La Cruz as "the best of all time" and encouraged Cubans to continue following his matches and support him on his path to Olympic glory, something that seems within his reach after his impressive debut.
As for La Cruz, he bid farewell to the possibility of securing his third title at this level, having previously won in Rio de Janeiro 2016 and Tokyo 2020.
Questions About Díaz-Canel and Cuban Boxers
Here are some common questions and answers about the recent events involving Díaz-Canel and Cuban boxers Loren Berto Alfonso and Julio César la Cruz.
Who is Loren Berto Alfonso?
Loren Berto Alfonso is a Cuban-born boxer who now represents Azerbaijan in international competitions, including the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.
What did Díaz-Canel say about Alfonso's comments?
Díaz-Canel praised Alfonso's comments as "honest, dignified, and moving," and noted that Cuba shares in Alfonso's victory, despite his representation of Azerbaijan.
How did Alfonso dedicate his victory?
Alfonso dedicated his victory to the Cuban people and acknowledged that his achievements in boxing are owed to the training he received in Cuba.