Cuban boxer Yordenis Ugás has spoken out against the harsh treatment of immigrants during deportation operations in the United States. While acknowledging that deportations are legal, he emphasized that pursuing and treating people "worse than animals" is not justifiable.
In a recent post on X, Ugás questioned the methods used in these immigration actions. He highlighted that Latinos seem to face particularly severe treatment during these operations.
"If they're Latino, it's even worse," he remarked, expressing disbelief at the severity of the situation in the country he also calls home.
Ugás's Personal Experience and Outrage
Ugás shared that over the past decade, he has contributed millions in taxes in the U.S., underscoring the legitimacy of his place in the nation through hard work. He earned his wealth through boxing, a sport where he physically challenged others to succeed.
Despite his toughness, Ugás admitted that immigration news and stories from detention centers deeply affect him emotionally: "My heart aches," he confessed.
Condemnation of Immigration Enforcement Tactics
The boxer criticized the conduct of agents involved in immigration raids, describing them as "armed men, masked, without compassion, devoid of respect for life." He has consistently opposed these practices since last year.
Responding to those questioning his timing, Ugás rejected blind allegiance to any political party, declaring, "I am not a sheep."
He clarified that he does not give "a blank check to any politician" and has never publicly urged others to vote for a specific candidate. Instead, his political activism has long focused on criticizing the Cuban regime.
Advocacy for Unity Against Cuban Regime
Ugás has consistently called for unity among Cubans against dictatorship, ending his messages with "God, Homeland, Life, Freedom."
In recent statements, the Cuban boxer has openly opposed immigration detentions. In July, he criticized former President Donald Trump for the arrests of immigrants, questioning, "Where is the pursuit of criminals?"
He has also intertwined these criticisms of U.S. immigration policy with his denunciations of the Cuban government. This month, Ugás defended lesser-known Cuban political prisoners by wearing their names on his attire during his last bout to shed light on those held without public recognition.
Born in Santiago de Cuba, Ugás earned a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and later reached the pinnacle of professional boxing. In 2021, he defeated the legendary Manny Pacquiao by unanimous decision, retaining the WBA welterweight super championship. The Cuban boxer remains active, returning to the ring in June 2026 after nearly three years, securing a split decision victory over Mexican Jesús "Bala" López.
Yordenis Ugás on U.S. Deportation Practices and Cuban Politics
What is Yordenis Ugás's stance on U.S. deportation practices?
Yordenis Ugás strongly criticizes the harsh treatment of immigrants during deportation operations, comparing it to being treated "worse than animals."
How has Ugás's activism been focused?
Ugás has concentrated his activism on denouncing the Cuban regime while also speaking out against harsh U.S. immigration policies.
What achievements has Yordenis Ugás accomplished in his boxing career?
Yordenis Ugás won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and later defeated Manny Pacquiao to retain the WBA welterweight super championship in 2021.