Cuban boxer Erislandy Álvarez showcased a powerful offensive display on Sunday, defeating Georgian competitor Lasha Guruli to advance to the gold medal match in the 63.5-kilogram category at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
From the opening bell, the 2023 World Championship silver medalist from Tashkent unleashed a flurry of punches, leaving no room for doubt. Álvarez earned a unanimous decision victory with scores of 5-0 (30-26, 30-27, 30-26, 30-27, 30-27), as Guruli struggled to counter his relentless attack.
With this win, the boxer from Cienfuegos secured the first silver medal for the Cuban delegation. The team eagerly awaits the bout of his compatriot Arlen López (80 kg) against Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Khyzhniak, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalist and 2017 world champion in the 75 kg category. López aims to become the fourth boxer to win the top multi-sport event three times.
Historically, this remarkable achievement has only been accomplished by Hungarian boxer Laszlo Papp (1948, 1952, 1956) and Cuban legends Teófilo Stevenson (1972, 1976, 1980) and Félix Savón (1992, 1996, 2000).
The Cuban boxing team arrived in France with a total of five fighters, but earlier rounds saw the elimination of notable competitors Julio César la Cruz (92 kg), Saidel Horta (57 kg), and Alejandro Claro (51 kg).
Key Highlights from Erislandy Álvarez's Olympic Performance
The following questions provide insights into Erislandy Álvarez's journey and performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Who did Erislandy Álvarez defeat to reach the gold medal match?
Erislandy Álvarez defeated Georgian boxer Lasha Guruli to advance to the gold medal match in the 63.5 kg category.
What were the judges' scores for Álvarez's victory?
The judges scored the match unanimously in favor of Álvarez with scores of 5-0 (30-26, 30-27, 30-26, 30-27, 30-27).
Which other Cuban boxer is competing for a medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics?
Cuban boxer Arlen López is also competing for a medal, facing Ukrainian Oleksandr Khyzhniak in the 80 kg category.