Holguin-born Jorge Manuel Soto, a 80-kilogram fighter, is part of the eight-man Cuban team preparing for the World Boxing Championship in Liverpool, England, from September 4th to 14th.
The last time a Holguin native participated in a World Boxing Championship was in 2003. When Mario Kindelán won his third title in this competition. In as many appearances, in Bangkok, Thailand. He had previously dominated his class in Houston, United States, in 1999, and Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 2001.
The Cuban contingent is led by five-time world champion Julio César La Cruz and two-time Olympic champion. Who will be making his first foray of this kind into the super heavyweight division (over 92 kilos).
La Cruz reigned four times in 1981 and once in 1992. One less than the legendary Félix Savón, the most accomplished boxer in world boxing competitions with six crowns.
The squad, under the command of head coach Rolando Acebal, also includes Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez (65 kg), silver medalist in the previous edition held in Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan. Also bronze medalist Alejandro Claro (50 kg), according to the digital sports publication Jit.
Central Caribbean number three Jorge Cuéllar (70 kg) and two-time national champion Nelson Williams (90 kg) are the other repeaters from the previous event. Where our team only won one title, three silver medals, and two bronze medals. The roster is completed by Rolando Martínez (55 kg) and Luis Enrique Vinent (65 kg).
National commissioner Robinson Poll announced that the team intends to travel to the Chinese province of Xiangtian at the end of August to complete their fitness program.
Cuba has 81 gold medals, 38 silver, and 30 bronze, leading the world championships. This year’s edition will be held for the first time under the leadership of World Boxing, which the International Olympic Committee has assigned to the role previously played by the International Boxing Association.
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