Erislandy Álvarez, the boxer from Cienfuegos, claimed victory in his debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics this Saturday by defeating John Ume from Papua New Guinea through technical superiority.
In his first match, the 24-year-old Álvarez, competing in the 63 kg category, entered as the favorite and did not disappoint his followers. From the outset, he demonstrated remarkable skill and control in the ring set up at the iconic Roland-Garros Stadium.
During the first round, the Cuban controlled the bout with agile footwork and a varied arsenal of hooks, jabs, and swings. Three judges scored the round 10-8 in his favor, while the other two gave him a 10-9 score.
The second round began with an offensive push from Ume, but Álvarez quickly regained control. At 30 seconds into the second round, the first protective count in favor of the Cuban was called. Shortly after, a precise jab from Álvarez floored his opponent, resulting in a second count.
Finally, a series of punches—capped off by a powerful right hand that left Ume on the canvas—prompted the referee to stop the fight after a third count. Álvarez was declared the winner by technical knockout.
In a display of sportsmanship, Álvarez raised his opponent's arm in respect before acknowledging the crowd. This victory not only advanced the world runner-up to the next round but also marked the first triumph for Cuban boxing at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The successful debut of Erislandy Álvarez boosts expectations for an outstanding performance by the Cuban team in these Games, setting a promising start for Cuban boxing in the world's most important sports competition.
Upcoming Cuban Boxing Clash in Paris
This Sunday, the Paris 2024 Olympics will feature an intriguing bout between Cubans Loren Berto Alfonso Domínguez and two-time Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz, also known as La Sombra.
At 28 years old, Loren Berto will compete under the flag of Azerbaijan, the country he represented to win bronze at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the light heavyweight category (75-81 kg). On Sunday, July 28 at 4:18 PM (local time), the Cuban-born Azerbaijani boxer will face 31-year-old Julio César La Cruz from Camagüey, who stands at 182 cm tall.
Three years younger and seven centimeters taller (189 cm), Loren Berto will have the chance to face La Sombra, a boxer who idolizes dictator Fidel Castro and who shouted "Patria y Vida no, ¡Patria o Muerte, Venceremos!" after defeating his compatriot Enmanuel Reyes Pla, who was competing for Spain in Tokyo 2020.
Erislandy Álvarez's Paris 2024 Debut: Key Questions Answered
Following Erislandy Álvarez's impressive debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers regarding his performance and future prospects.
Who did Erislandy Álvarez defeat in his debut match at Paris 2024?
Erislandy Álvarez defeated John Ume from Papua New Guinea in his debut match at Paris 2024.
What was the outcome of Erislandy Álvarez's debut fight?
Erislandy Álvarez won his debut fight by technical knockout.
Where did Erislandy Álvarez's debut fight take place?
The fight took place at the Roland-Garros Stadium in Paris.