Félix Savón, a legendary figure in Cuban boxing and a three-time Olympic champion, has been released on parole after serving six years in prison for a sexual offense. Savón, who clinched Olympic gold at the Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996, and Sydney 2000 Games, was freed in late 2024, as confirmed by various sources to the independent portal, CubaNet.
In addition to his Olympic accolades, Savón boasts six world titles. His incarceration began in 2018 following accusations of sexually abusing a 12-year-old boy. Despite the gravity of the charges, the Cuban authorities never officially disclosed details of his sentencing or the judicial process, leaving many questions unanswered about the specifics of his trial, including its timing and location, or whether he had legal representation.
The case was shrouded in secrecy by the regime, with no official communication about his punishment to the Cuban public. Nevertheless, rumors circulated about his health and conduct while imprisoned. "He had about two years left (of his sentence) when he was released, but he looks 'groggy'," a former member of the Cuban national boxing team commented anonymously. In boxing terminology, "groggy" refers to a state of disorientation, possibly indicating the physical and mental toll his imprisonment took on Savón.
It remains unclear whether the parole was requested by Savón himself or his representatives. The regime has not officially acknowledged his release, even amidst reports of other prisoners being freed last week. His release became public knowledge when family photos, shared by his daughter on social media, showed him celebrating the holiday season. Sources close to Savón also mentioned sightings at his home in the Fontanar neighborhood of Boyeros municipality, during times he was reportedly granted temporary leave from the detention center, known as a "farm" for former officials serving sentences.
Once a figure of admiration in Cuba, Savón was celebrated not only for his prowess in the ring but also for his close ties with the late dictator Fidel Castro. After retiring from boxing following his third Olympic gold in Sydney, Savón pursued painting and art exhibitions, although it remains uncertain if he continued this passion while incarcerated.
Throughout his career, Savón amassed 342 victories against 17 losses, excelling not just in the Olympics but also in the AIBA World Championships, where he won six consecutive titles. His dominance extended to Cuba's national tournaments, securing 13 titles from 1985 to 1998. Among his significant triumphs were victories over professional champions like Ray Mercer, Shannon Briggs, Lamon Brewster, and Ruslan Chagaev.
However, the accusation that led to his imprisonment has overshadowed his sports legacy, tainting his status as one of the greatest boxers in history. The shocking nature of the allegations—abusing a 12-year-old child—cast a dark shadow over the athlete once idolized by generations in Cuba, marking one of the most controversial and somber episodes in the nation's sports history.
Key Questions About Félix Savón's Release
Why was Félix Savón imprisoned?
Félix Savón was imprisoned in 2018 after being accused of sexually abusing a 12-year-old boy.
How did the public learn about Savón's release?
The public became aware of Savón's release when family photos were shared on social media by his daughter, showing him during holiday celebrations.
Did Félix Savón continue his artistic pursuits while in prison?
It is unknown if Félix Savón continued his painting and artistic pursuits during his incarceration.