The gold medal of Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, at the center of one of the biggest controversies in Paris 2024, has a Cuban flavor, as one of her coaches is Pedro Luis Díaz, who worked for several years alongside Alcides Sagarra in the national team of the island.
Díaz was instrumental in Khelif's victory in the 66-kilogram category. Khelif, who faced numerous criticisms regarding her gender, won her debut match against Angela Carini in just 46 seconds, sparking a heated debate with the Italian's subsequent statements.
The champion secured unanimous decisions in her three remaining fights, including the final against China's Liu Yang, fulfilling her goal under the guidance of the experienced Cuban coach. Díaz has an extensive background in the art of boxing, having been part of several Olympic cycles under Sagarra's mentorship in Cuba, contributing to the development of stars like Félix Savón, Joel Casamayor, Yan Barthelemí, and Héctor Vinent, among others, according to Cubalite.
In 2007, Díaz decided to stay in Colombia and later moved to Canada, continuing his involvement in boxing. Since 2012, he has been based in Miami, United States, where he founded Mundo Boxing, a company focused on professional boxers and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters.
Among many others, he has worked with his compatriot Guillermo Rigondeaux and Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto. Additionally, he was linked to Dominican boxing for the Beijing 2008 Olympics, where one of his trainees, Félix Manuel Díaz (63.5 kg), won a gold medal.
Díaz's success is part of a broader achievement by Cuban trainers in Paris 2024, with Pedro Roque excelling with Azerbaijan and Julián González Cedeño and Raúl Fernández leading the Chinese women's team. Meanwhile, Cuba, under head coach Rolando Acebal, had a lackluster performance, securing only the gold medal of Erislandy Álvarez (63.5 kg) and the bronze of Arlen López (80 kg).
Key Figures in Cuban Boxing and Their Impact
The following questions and answers provide insights into the significant contributions of Cuban boxing coaches and the controversies surrounding their trainees.
Who is Pedro Luis Díaz?
Pedro Luis Díaz is a renowned Cuban boxing coach who has worked with numerous boxing champions and has a significant influence in the sport.
What controversy surrounded Imane Khelif in Paris 2024?
Imane Khelif faced criticisms regarding her gender after a swift victory in her debut match, which sparked a heated debate.
What role did Pedro Luis Díaz play in Imane Khelif's success?
Pedro Luis Díaz was instrumental in coaching Imane Khelif to her gold medal victory, applying his extensive experience and expertise in boxing.