With the event dubbed "Night of Champions," professional boxing is set to return to Havana on August 27, bringing a feast of fights. However, without a doubt, the main attraction will be a clash between two familiar foes: Julio César la Cruz and Spanish-nationalized Cuban Enmanuel Reyes.
Organized by the International Boxing Association (IBA), the event will feature two world titles up for grabs and will gather athletes, coaches, officials, and fans from around the globe to celebrate the rich history and vibrant future of this sport, according to Notifight.
Cuba will take center stage, not only as the host nation. The headline bout in the 92-kilogram category will feature La Cruz, recently eliminated in the current Olympic Games, against Reyes, who is still in the running for Paris 2024.
The matchup carries significant intrigue, as both fighters were involved in one of the most politically charged encounters at Tokyo 2020. "La Sombra," known for his support of the Cuban regime, famously shouted "Patria y Vida no, ¡Patria o Muerte, Venceremos!" after defeating his compatriot.
Additionally, the co-main event will feature Arlen López, a double Olympic champion and gold medal hopeful for the upcoming games in France, facing Belarusian Aliaksei Alfiorau to determine the IBA champion in the 80-kilogram division.
Umar Kremlev, president of the association, remarked, "Cuba has an unparalleled legendary boxing heritage, and we are thrilled to host the central celebration of International Boxing Day in Havana." According to the mentioned website, the event is an opportunity to honor athletes who dedicate their lives to the sport and inspire the next generation of boxers worldwide.
Regarding the program, the president of the Cuban Boxing Federation, Alberto Puig de la Barca, expressed his confidence. "I am sure that the 14,000-seat venue will be packed because the best boxers in our country will be participating."
The event, showcasing the island's top fighters in the selected divisions, will take place at the Coliseo de la Ciudad Deportiva and will mark the true return of professional boxing to the largest of the Antilles after decades of absence, although some believe that this already happened with the now-defunct World Series of Boxing.
Key Details About the Return of Professional Boxing to Havana
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the upcoming professional boxing event in Havana, featuring Julio César la Cruz and Enmanuel Reyes.
When and where will the boxing event take place?
The event will take place on August 27 at the Coliseo de la Ciudad Deportiva in Havana, Cuba.
Who are the main fighters in the event?
The main fight will feature Julio César la Cruz against Enmanuel Reyes. The co-main event will include Arlen López and Aliaksei Alfiorau.
What organization is behind the event?
The event is organized by the International Boxing Association (IBA).