On the eve of competing for his fifth Olympic gold, Cuban wrestler Mijaín López had a phone conversation with Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, assuring him that he will reclaim the title at the Paris 2024 Olympics. "Thank you for your call. Be sure that tomorrow that title will belong to Cuba," Mijaín told the leader appointed by General Raúl Castro, who continues to use sports as a propaganda tool.
After defeating Azerbaijani wrestler Sabah Shariati (4-1) on Monday to secure a spot in the final of the 130-kilogram Greco-Roman style, the "Giant of Herradura" addressed the press, greeting Cuban fans and promising, "What I promised is a debt." A champion of the Beijing 2008, London 2012, Rio de Janeiro 2016, and Tokyo 2020 Games, Mijaín, at 41, will face his former teammate Yasmani Acosta, 36, who now competes for Chile.
"I have always kept my word to the people of Cuba. I'm happy to bring this joy to the people. I know everyone is glued to their TVs, admiring the son of the homeland, Mijaín López," said the four-time Olympic champion.
With only one bronze medal secured (by boxer Arlén López, who failed to win his third Olympic title), Cuba currently ranks 66th in the Olympic medal tally, between Cape Verde and Egypt. This severe medal drought has spurred the propaganda machinery of Palacio, which has launched a wave of support for the veteran wrestler on social media.
From the not-first-lady Lis Cuesta Peraza to the national coordinator of the CDR, Gerardo Hernández Nordelo, officials and state media have rallied to express their encouragement for Mijaín, who embodies the essence of the so-called "revolutionary sport."
In addition to being a champion in his specialty, Mijaín has previously been the flag bearer for the Olympic delegation, an honor he did not repeat at these Olympics for "sporting reasons." His place was taken by boxer Julio César La Cruz, known as "La Sombra" and for his proven loyalty to the Cuban regime, demonstrated by his shouts of "homeland and death" in the ring.
No less fervent in his ideological inclinations is Mijaín, who will face a former teammate who left Cuba to build a successful athletic career in Chile this Tuesday.
Mijaín López and Cuba's Olympic Aspirations
Here are some common questions and answers related to Mijaín López's participation in the Olympics and Cuba's broader Olympic ambitions.
Who is Mijaín López?
Mijaín López is a Cuban wrestler known for his dominance in the Greco-Roman style. He has won four Olympic gold medals and is competing for his fifth at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
What is the current ranking of Cuba in the Olympic medal tally?
As of now, Cuba ranks 66th in the Olympic medal tally, flanked by Cape Verde and Egypt, with only one bronze medal secured.
Who is Yasmani Acosta?
Yasmani Acosta is a former teammate of Mijaín López who now competes for Chile. He will be Mijaín's opponent in the final match of the 130-kilogram Greco-Roman style at the Paris 2024 Olympics.