Cuba has a long and proud history of producing some of the finest boxers in the world. From Olympic Gold medalists to World Champions, Cuban boxers have won numerous titles. With an impressive list of world-class boxers, Cuba has become a powerhouse in the sport of boxing.
From Teófilo Stevenson to Guillermo Rigondeaux, the Cuban boxing scene is full of talented athletes who have made their mark on the sport. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best Cuban boxers of all time.
1. Kid Gavilán
Gerardo González, also known as Kid Gavilan, was a Cuban boxer who achieved a great amount of success in the boxing world.
Gavilán was the undisputed welterweight champion from 1951 to 1954 and during this time he held the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC), World Boxing Association (WBA) and The Ring welterweight titles simultaneously.
His success and recognition in the boxing world was so great that in 1953 the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) named him Fighter of the Year.
Gavilán was an impressive fighter with a successful career, and his accomplishments made him a prominent figure in the boxing world.
2. Kid Chocolate
Kid Chocolate, born Eligio Sardiñas Montalvo, was a professional boxer from Cuba who gained immense success both inside and outside of the boxing ring during the 1930s.
Chocolate began his professional boxing career in 1927 and had a heartfelt passion for the sport that lasted until 1938 when he retired. His passion and skill for boxing earned him a great reputation and he was extremely popular during his career.
Kid Chocolate was known for his impressive lightning-fast reflexes, agility, and technique in the ring. He was also well-known for his flamboyant style of dress and for his catchy nicknames such as the Cuban Bon Bon, the Cuban Comet, and the Brown Bomber.
He was an excellent promoter of the sport and used his fame to help promote boxing in Cuba and the United States. Outside of the boxing ring, Kid Chocolate was an actor, singer, and songwriter. He wrote and performed many popular Cuban songs and even starred in a few films.
He was also a successful businessman and opened a number of successful nightclubs in Cuba. Kid Chocolate was a beloved figure in Cuba and abroad and his legacy continues to live on.
He helped popularize boxing in both Cuba and the United States and his influence on the sport can still be seen today. He is remembered as one of the greatest Cuban boxers of all time and his legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.
3. José Nápoles
José Ángel Nápoles is widely considered one of the greatest boxers of all time. Born in Cuba in 1935, he moved to Mexico in his teens and began his professional boxing career in 1954.
In 1969, he achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the undisputed welterweight champion, holding the World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Council (WBC) and The Ring welterweight titles simultaneously.
His reign as champion lasted until 1975, during which time he was undefeated in the welterweight division. He made a total of fifty-four successful title defenses and was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring in 1971.
He retired in 1975 with a record of 81 wins, 7 losses, and 2 draws, and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
4. Luis Manuel Rodríguez
Luis Manuel Rodríguez was a Cuban professional boxer who went by the nickname “El Feo”. He had a long and successful career in pre-Castro Havana, where he achieved great success in the boxing world.
He particularly stood out for his two wins against the future welterweight champion, Benny Paret. Paret’s career was cut tragically short when he died in a match against Emile Griffith in 1962.
Rodríguez was known for his relentless energy and his determination to win, which helped him to prevail in his matches against Paret. His victories showed Cuban boxing fans that he had the potential to become one of the greatest boxers of his time.
Rodríguez has since become a Cuban boxing legend, remembered for his skill and strength in the ring.
5. Guillermo Rigondeaux
Guillermo Rigondeaux Ortiz is a highly accomplished Cuban professional boxer.
He has achieved a great deal of success in the sport, having held the unified WBA, WBO and Ring magazine super bantamweight titles between 2013 and 2017, and the WBA bantamweight title from 2020 to 2021.
This makes him a former world champion in two weight classes. Rigondeaux is considered one of the best defensive boxers in the world. He is known for his quick reflexes, counterpunching ability, and defensive prowess.
He has also been praised for his combination of punching and ring generalship. He has earned multiple world championships and has been undefeated in his professional boxing career. In addition to his boxing career, Rigondeaux has also found success outside of the ring.
He is an author and a motivational speaker. He has written a book, “The Cuban Fighter: A Life of Triumph and Struggle,” which details his life story and his journey to the top of the boxing world.
He also speaks to audiences around the world about his experiences and the importance of following one’s dreams. Overall, Guillermo Rigondeaux Ortiz is an inspiring figure in the world of boxing.
He has achieved a great deal of success in the sport and has been a model of success and determination for many aspiring athletes. His story is one of perseverance and overcoming obstacles to achieve greatness.
6. Benny Paret
Bernardo Paret, also known as Benny Paret and Benny “Kid” Paret, was a Cuban professional boxer who was active during the early 1960s. During his career, he earned the title of World Welterweight Champion on two separate occasions.
Paret began his boxing career in Havana, Cuba, where he quickly established himself as a formidable contender in the welterweight division. He fought some of the toughest boxers of the era, including American champions Emile Griffith and Sugar Ray Robinson.
In 1962, Paret won his first world championship title when he defeated Griffith in a highly contested fifteen-round match. He successfully defended his title against Robinson in a rematch the following year. Paret’s success in the ring earned him the nickname the “Cuban Hawk”.
He was seen as a symbol of Cuban pride in the sport of boxing. Unfortunately, Paret’s career was cut short when he suffered a fatal injury during a match against Griffith in 1962. The incident left the Cuban boxing world in shock and devastated Paret’s family.
Despite his untimely death, Paret is remembered as one of the greatest Cuban boxers of all time. His legacy continues to live on in the hearts of Cuban boxing fans and Paret’s family alike.
7. José Legrá
José Legrá is a retired professional featherweight boxer who had an impressive career in the ring. He is a two-time former WBC World Featherweight Champion, having won the title in 1978 and 1981. He was the first fighter from Puerto Rico to win a world featherweight title.
During his boxing career, Legrá successfully defended his title a total of five times and was known for his speed and agility in the ring.
After retiring from the sport, Legrá continued to remain active in the boxing world, taking on a managerial role and working with younger fighters. He has also been involved in various charities, particularly those related to underprivileged children in his native Puerto Rico.
8. Sugar Ramos
Ultiminio Ramos Zaqueira was a renowned professional boxer from Cuba who went by the nickname “Sugar Ramos”. He had a successful career in Mexico, where he was widely praised and respected as a national hero.
Ramos was a world featherweight champion and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. He achieved great success in the sport and was recognized for his skill as a boxer. Ramos was born in Cuba and developed an interest in boxing from a young age.
He trained hard and eventually became one of the best boxers in the world. He won several world titles in his weight class, as well as being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Ramos was a popular figure in Mexico where he was treated like a hero.
He inspired many young people to pursue a career in boxing and trained many of them. He was highly respected in the boxing community and was known for his professionalism and dedication to the sport. Ramos’ legacy will live on in the boxing world.
He has been recognized as one of the greatest boxers of all time and will continue to be remembered as an inspiration to many. His skill and determination will never be forgotten.
9. Teófilo Stevenson
Teófilo Stevenson Lawrence was a Cuban amateur boxer who had an impressive career spanning from 1966 to 1986. He was an accomplished athlete, having won the Val Barker Trophy and the Olympic Order.
He is also one of only three boxers in history who have won three Olympic gold medals, alongside Hungarian László Papp and fellow Cuban Félix Savón. Born in 1952, Stevenson’s career began in 1966 when he won the Cuban National Championships for the first time.
He continued to dominate the Cuban National Championships over the next two decades, and in 1972, he won his first Olympic gold medal at the Munich Olympics.
He followed that up with gold medals at the 1976 Montreal and 1980 Moscow Olympics, becoming the first boxer to win three consecutive Olympic gold medals.
In addition to his Olympic success, Stevenson also won the Val Barker Trophy in 1972, awarded to the best boxer at the Olympics.
He was honored with the Olympic Order in 1988, recognizing his significant contributions to the Olympic movement. Stevenson’s accomplishments have had a lasting impact on the sport of boxing.
He is remembered as one of the greatest amateur boxers of all time, and his success has inspired countless other boxers to reach for their dreams.
He will always be remembered as one of the few boxers to have won three Olympic gold medals, setting the standard for future generations.
10. Joel Casamayor
Joel Casamayor Johnson is a former professional boxer from Cuba who had an illustrious career spanning from 1996 to 2011.
He is a two-time world champion, having held the WBA Super Featherweight title from 2000 to 2002 and the WBC, Ring magazine and lineal lightweight titles between 2006 and 2008.
Johnson’s success in the ring was highly respected, with him being known for his defensive skills, excellent footwork, counter-punching abilities and overall boxing IQ.
He was able to defeat some of the biggest names in the sport, including Diego Corrales, Acelino Freitas and Jose Luis Castillo, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of his era.
11. Florentino Fernández
Florentino “the Ox” Fernández was a Cuban middleweight boxer who had a distinguished career spanning from 1956 to 1972. He competed in a total of 68 matches during his career, amassing an impressive record of 50 wins, 16 losses, and 2 draws.
His moniker, “the Ox,” was earned due to his incredible strength and durability, which allowed him to compete for 16 years in a sport as physically demanding as boxing. Florentino Fernández was a formidable opponent who earned the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans.
His 50 wins include 26 KOs, showing that he could deliver punishing blows to his opponents. Despite his 16 losses, his record speaks highly of his ability to stay competitive and fight against some of the top boxers of his time.
His two draws also demonstrate his ability to remain composed and strategic, even in the most intense match-ups. Overall, Florentino Fernández was an influential figure in Cuban boxing, and his career stands as a testament to his remarkable strength and skill.
He was a fighter who will be remembered for his strength and resilience, and for the legacy he left behind.
12. Yordenis Ugás
Yordenis Ugas Hernández is a Cuban professional boxer who has achieved tremendous success in the boxing world. He won the WBA welterweight title in 2020 and held the title until April 2022.
In 2021, he was then promoted to the rank of Super champion and held this title until April 2022. Ugas Hernández is a powerful and talented boxer, and his accomplishments have made him a celebrated figure in Cuba and the world of boxing.
Throughout his career, he has proven himself to be a formidable opponent in the ring, and his dedication to the sport has earned him the respect of his peers.
He is an inspiration to other Cuban boxers and serves as an example of what hard work and dedication can do to achieve success.
13. Roniel Iglesias
Roniel Iglesias Sotolongo is one of Cuba’s top boxers, with a number of high-profile achievements during his career. He first made his mark in 2006, when he won a junior world title at lightweight.
This was an impressive feat, especially for a Cuban athlete competing on the international stage. In 2008, he continued this success when he won a bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics.
This was an even greater accomplishment for Iglesias Sotolongo, as it demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level and maintain a high level of performance. Finally, in 2012, Iglesias Sotolongo achieved his greatest success to date when he won the gold medal at the London Olympics.
This was a significant milestone in his career, and it showcased not only his talent as a boxer but also his dedication and commitment to the sport. Overall, Roniel Iglesias Sotolongo is a Cuban boxer who has achieved great success in his sport, and he is best known for his accomplishments at the junior world title, the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, and the 2012 Olympics in London.
14. David Morrell
Osvary David Morrell Gutierrez Jr. is an incredibly talented Cuban professional boxer. He is currently the reigning WBA super middleweight champion, having won the title in 2021.
As an amateur, Osvary was quite successful, taking home gold medals from both the 2016 Youth World Championships and the 2017 Cuban National Championships. His record of success speaks to his dedication and hard work in the ring, as well as his extraordinary talent.
Osvary has the potential to become one of the greatest boxers in Cuban history, and his career is certainly one to keep an eye on.
15. Julio César La Cruz
Julio César De La Cruz Peraza is an exemplary athlete who has achieved great success in the world of boxing. He is a professional boxer from Cuba, and he has had an incredibly successful career as an amateur boxer.
He won gold medals at the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, and he has won gold medals at the 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships. This impressive track record demonstrates just how skilled and dedicated Julio César De La Cruz Peraza is as a boxer.
He has achieved success on the global stage, and he is an inspiration to aspiring boxers across the world. He is a shining example of what hard work and dedication to a craft can bring, and his accomplishments are a testament to his skill and determination.
16. Lázaro Álvarez
Lázaro Jorge Álvarez Estrada is a renowned Cuban boxer, both professional and amateur. He has achieved great success in his career, winning his first world title as an amateur in 2011. This was followed up by two more world titles in 2013 and 2015.
His success extended to the Pan American Games, where he won gold medals in 2011, 2015, and 2019. He also took home bronze medals from the Olympics in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
As a southpaw, he has a unique and powerful style that has helped him to become one of the most respected boxers in the world. Álvarez has proven himself to be an excellent competitor, and his impressive accomplishments demonstrate his skill and determination to succeed.
17. Andy Cruz
Andy Cruz Gómez is a highly accomplished Cuban professional boxer. He has won a grand total of five gold medals in the Pan American Games and AIBA World Championships, showing his immense talent and prowess in the ring.
His accomplishments in boxing have earned him recognition on an international level, particularly after he became the reigning Olympic champion after competing in the 2020 Summer Olympics.
This impressive victory solidified his status as one of the greatest boxers to come out of Cuba. As a result of his impressive victories, Gómez has become a great source of inspiration to aspiring boxers, both in Cuba and around the world.
18. Arlen Lopez
Arlen López Cardona is a Cuban professional boxer who has had a very successful amateur career.
He has achieved impressive success at multiple international tournaments, winning gold medals at the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, the 2015 and 2019 Pan American Games, the 2014 and 2018 Central American and Caribbean Games, and the 2015 World Championships.
This is a tremendous accomplishment for any athlete and demonstrates López’s skill and dedication to the sport of boxing. His success has made him a well-known figure in Cuban sports, and his future in the professional boxing world looks very bright.
19. Roberto Balado
Roberto Balado Méndez was a renowned Cuban amateur boxer who competed between 1986 and 1994. During this period, Balado Méndez achieved several impressive accomplishments in the sport of boxing.
His greatest achievement was winning the Gold medal in the men’s super heavyweight division at the 1992 Summer Olympics. Balado Méndez was a natural heavyweight, standing tall at a height of 6’7″.
This tall stature helped him to become a formidable presence in the ring, and he went on to become a three-time world champion, as well as a five-time Cuban national champion.
He was also the Olympic champion in 1992, and his performances in the boxing ring earned him a great deal of respect and admiration from the sports fans of Cuba.
Balado Méndez was a highly decorated boxer, and his impressive achievements will always be remembered in the history of Cuban boxing. His talent, skill, and passion for the sport made him a true champion and an inspiration for many aspiring boxers.
20. Osvel Caballero
Osvel Caballero is a Cuban boxer who recently made history when he won the gold medal in the featherweight division at the 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships.
This was a great accomplishment for Caballero, as it was the first time a Cuban boxer had won the gold medal in this weight class since the competition began in 1974.
Caballero was able to defeat his opponents in the tournament, which included wrestlers from countries all over the world, including the United States, Russia, and Kazakhstan.
His victory was a huge moment for Cuban sports, and it has inspired many other Cuban boxers to pursue their dreams. Caballero is now a national hero, and his gold medal win will be remembered as a significant moment in Cuban sports history.
21. Yuniel Dorticos
Yuniel Dorticós Pao is a professional boxer from Cuba. He is a two-time former world champion in the cruiserweight division, having held the WBA title from 2017 to 2018 and the IBF title from 2019 to 2020.
Dorticós Pao has achieved a great deal of success in his boxing career and is one of the most decorated Cuban boxers of all time.
He is best known for his aggressive style of boxing and his ability to deliver powerful punches. Dorticós Pao began his professional boxing career in 2011 and has since gone on to become a two-time world champion.
He won his first world title in 2017 when he defeated Beibut Shumenov to become the WBA Cruiserweight champion.
He defended his title successfully for a year before losing it to Andrew Tabiti in 2018. In 2019, Dorticós Pao once again became a world champion after winning the IBF Cruiserweight championship, defeating Murat Gassiev in the process.
He held onto the title until 2020 when he lost it to Mairis Briedis. Throughout his career, Dorticós Pao has faced some of the best boxers in the world, and his accomplishments have earned him a great deal of respect from boxing fans all over the world.
22. Erislandy Lara
Erislandy Lara Santoya is a professional boxer who has made a name for himself in the world of boxing. He was born in Cuba but moved to the United States as a young adult. Since then, he has gone on to become a successful professional boxer.
He has held multiple world championships in two different weight classes, including the WBA middleweight title since 2021. Lara Santoya is known for his aggressive fighting style, which is characterized by a combination of power and speed.
He has shown a mastery of different techniques, including the jab, the cross, and the hook. His powerful punches and quick footwork have earned him recognition as one of the best boxers in the world. Lara Santoya is also known for his charitable works.
He has donated to various charities and causes, such as providing food and medical supplies to those in need.
He also supports organizations that are focused on providing educational and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youth in his home country of Cuba. Lara Santoya is an inspiration to many people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
His story of overcoming adversity and achieving success is an example of what can be accomplished with hard work and dedication. His dedication to helping others and his commitment to excellence in the ring have made him a role model for many aspiring boxers.
23. Mario Kindelán
Mario César Kindelán Mesa, also known as Mario Kindelán, is a celebrated Cuban former amateur boxer. He is best known for his two gold medals at the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games, having competed in the lightweight division.
His success in the ring has made him a national hero in Cuba. Beyond his accomplishments in boxing, Mario Kindelán is also known for his family ties.
His cousin is Orestes Kindelán, a professional Cuban baseball player who has made a name for himself in the world of Major League Baseball.
Orestes has played for the Cuban national team in the World Baseball Classic and has been considered one of the best Cuban baseball players of all time. Despite their different paths, both Mario and Orestes are seen as national heroes in Cuba.
Mario Kindelán is remembered for his outstanding performance in the boxing ring, while Orestes is celebrated for his accomplishments in the world of professional baseball.
Both cousins have achieved greatness in their respective fields, and it is no surprise that they are seen as Cuban heroes.
24. Héctor Vinent
Héctor Vinent Cháron was an exceptional athlete, renowned for his accomplishments in amateur boxing. He achieved an impressive feat by winning the Light Welterweight Gold medal at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics.
His success in the boxing ring has earned him recognition and notoriety beyond the sport, with his inclusion in Brin-Jonathan Butler’s upcoming documentary Split Decision. Currently, Hector is training athletes at the Istanbul-based gym Mugenhous in Turkey.
This serves as a testament to his skill and knowledge as an athlete, as well as his passion and dedication to the sport of boxing. His impressive career is further proof of his status as a remarkable athlete and an inspiration to aspiring boxers.
25. Luis Ortiz
Luis Ortiz is a Cuban professional boxer who has had a highly successful career in the ring. He won the WBA interim heavyweight title in 2015 and held it until 2016, making him one of the top contenders in the sport.
In 2018 and 2019, he went on to challenge for the WBC heavyweight title twice, showing his determination and ambition. Prior to his professional career, Ortiz had an impressive amateur career, winning a silver medal at the 2005 Boxing World Cup.
This medal stands as a testament to the skill and hard work that Ortiz has put into his boxing career over the years. He is a true testament to the power of hard work and dedication in the pursuit of greatness.
26. Diosbelys Hurtado
Diosbelys Hurtado is a Cuban-Spanish boxer who has achieved great success in his career. He is a former NBA (National Boxing Association), IBA (International Boxing Association) and WBA (World Boxing Association) Light Welterweight Champion.
As a boxer, Hurtado has had a great deal of experience in the ring and has won numerous titles. He has also held the WBA and IBA Light Welterweight Championships, making him one of the top boxers in the world.
Hurtado’s achievements in the ring have been very impressive and he has become one of the most well-known boxers in the world. He is a respected and well-known figure in the world of boxing and his success has been truly inspiring.
27. Nino Valdez
Niño Valdés was a prominent figure in Cuban boxing history. He was Cuba’s national heavyweight boxing champion in the 1940s and 1950s, a time when professional boxing was still in its infancy in the country.
His accomplishments in the sport ensured that he was well-respected by his peers and fans alike. His legacy is cemented by the fact that the statistical boxing website BoxRec rates Valdés as the 8th best Cuban boxer ever across all weight divisions.
This ranking is a testament to the skill and ability that Valdés displayed during his career. He was a formidable fighter who was able to dominate the heavyweight division of Cuban boxing during his time.
Valdés’ success serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers in Cuba, who look to emulate his achievements in the sport.
28. Yoan Pablo Hernández
Yoan Pablo Hernández Suárez is a professional boxer with Cuban and German heritage. He has achieved great success in the boxing world, being the former unified cruiserweight world champion.
During the years of 2011 to 2015, Hernández held two prestigious titles – the IBF and Ring Magazine titles. In addition, he was also the WBA interim cruiserweight title holder in 2011.
Hernández’s impressive career has seen him compete in both amateur and professional boxing circuits. His boxing style is known for its technical finesse and he is renowned for his power punches.
He has gone up against many tough opponents in his career and has proven to be a tough competitor in the ring. Hernández’s boxing skills have been acknowledged by many in the boxing world.
He has been praised for his combination of speed and power, as well as his ability to adapt to different fighting styles.
He is a popular figure in the boxing world and is respected for his many achievements. Hernández’s career has been full of success and he has made a name for himself in the boxing world. He is a testament to the dedication and hard work that goes into becoming a successful boxer.
Hernández is an inspiration to aspiring boxers and those who follow the sport.
29. Daniel Matellon
Daniel Matellon Ramos is a Cuban professional boxer who is currently making a name for himself in the boxing world. He achieved a momentous victory when he was crowned the WBA interim light flyweight title holder in February 2021.
This title win was an especially impressive feat as Ramos had only been a professional boxer for a few years prior. Ramos was able to hold the WBA interim light flyweight title for a total of six months, until August 2021.
This was an impressive accomplishment, considering his relatively short career in the sport. Throughout this time, Ramos fought hard to maintain and defend his title, and his skill and determination were evident in each of his matches.
Ramos’ impressive performances have not gone unnoticed. His title win has earned him recognition both in Cuba and around the world for his achievements in the ring. His success has been an inspiration to many, not only in the boxing world but also to the Cuban people.
Overall, Daniel Matellon Ramos is a talented Cuban professional boxer who has made a name for himself in the boxing world.
His title win and subsequent successful defense of the WBA interim light flyweight title have earned him recognition and admiration from people around the world.
30. Yuriorkis Gamboa
Yuriorkis Gamboa Toledano is an impressive figure in the boxing world. He is a Cuban professional boxer and is a former world champion in the featherweight division.
This means that he held both the WBA (World Boxing Association) and IBF (International Boxing Federation) titles between 2009 and 2011. In addition to this, he also held the WBA interim championship in both the super featherweight and lightweight divisions.
This is a major accomplishment in the boxing world, and it is no surprise that Toledano has become one of the most respected figures in the sport. His success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft, and he is an example for other aspiring boxers to follow.
31. Jorge Luis González
Jorge Luis Gonzalez is an accomplished boxer with a storied career. He was born in Havana, Cuba where he began his boxing journey. Gonzalez achieved great success in the Pan American Games, winning the gold medal in 1983 and 1987.
He was also the former WBO Latino Heavyweight Champion. His success and skill as a boxer earned him the title of heavyweight boxing contender and prospect. His career was one of dedication and hard work, and his accomplishments are a testament to that.
32. Odlanier Solís
Odlanier Solís Fonte is a Cuban professional boxer who has become well-known in the boxing world. He made his professional debut in 2000 and has since gone on to become one of the most highly-regarded Cuban boxers of all time.
In 2011, he challenged for the WBC Heavyweight title, though he ultimately lost in a closely fought fight. Despite this loss, Solís Fonte has remained a top-rated contender in the heavyweight division ever since.
He has been praised for his impressive technique, technical skill, and strength, and has consistently been ranked in the top 10 of the heavyweight division. Solís Fonte is a highly respected boxer, and he has been rewarded for his achievements with numerous awards and titles.
He is an inspiration to young Cuban boxers and a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication.
33. Mike Perez
Ismaikel “Mike” Perez is an impressive professional boxer who is a dual-nationality athlete. Born in Cuba, he is of Irish descent. He currently holds the WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight title and has challenged for the WBC cruiserweight title in 2017.
This is an impressive feat and a testament to his strength and skill as a boxer. He has had an impressive career in the sport and it appears as though he will continue to do so in the future.
His determination and dedication to the sport have seen him reach heights that many boxers only dream of. His ambition and drive to be the best of the best have seen him challenge for a World title, something that not many can say they have done.
With a unique heritage and a strong commitment to the sport, Ismaikel “Mike” Perez is an amazing boxer that will go down in history.
34. Osmay Acosta
Osmay Acosta Méndez Duarte is a Cuban former amateur boxer who had a successful career between 2001 and 2010. His greatest achievement was winning the 2007 PanAm Games at Heavyweight, a weight class with a limit of 201 lbs.
This accomplishment was a major highlight of his career and demonstrated his skill and commitment to boxing. He is well-known for his dedication to the sport and his determination to succeed. He was a hard-working boxer who trained and competed with great intensity and focus.
His physical strength and mental toughness enabled him to achieve success in the ring. Osmay Acosta Méndez Duarte is an inspiration to all aspiring boxers. His career stands as a testament to what can be accomplished through dedication and hard work.
His success in the 2007 PanAm Games serves as a reminder of the potential rewards that can be gained from pursuing a career in boxing.
35. Emilio Correa
Emilio Correa Bayeux Júnior is an accomplished boxer hailing from Cuba. He is best known for his achievements in the amateur boxing world, particularly his win of the middleweight gold medal at the 2007 Pan American Games.
This was a highly prestigious win, as it earned him a spot among the world’s top athletes in his weight class. He is the son of the famous Olympic champion, Emilio Correa Sr., and his legacy of excellence in the boxing world has been passed on to his son.
Junior’s win at the Pan American Games has made him a household name and is an impressive accomplishment for a Cuban boxer. He is sure to continue to make a name for himself in the years to come.
36. Andry Laffita
Andry Laffita Fernández is a retired Cuban amateur boxer who achieved great success in his career. In 2005, he won a silver medal at the World Amateur Boxing Championships.
This was a major accomplishment, one that solidified his position as one of the top amateur boxers in the world. In 2008, Andry’s success continued as he competed in the Olympic Games in Beijing.
He won a silver medal in the flyweight class, further cementing his legacy as one of the greats in the boxing world. His career was an impressive one, culminating in a silver medal at the Olympics.
His legacy will live on as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that it takes to reach the top of one’s sport.
37. Yasniel Toledo López
Yasnier Toledo López is a world-renowned Cuban amateur boxer from Pinar del Río. He is a southpaw, meaning he leads with his left hand in the boxing ring. His accomplishments include winning the bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics and the PanAm lightweight title in 2011.
Toledo López’s Olympic appearance marked his first time competing in the games, yet he managed to earn himself a place in the history books with his bronze medal finish.
His success at the Olympics was only a sign of things to come, as he went on to secure the PanAm lightweight title in 2011. Toledo López’s victory was a great accomplishment, as it made him the first Cuban boxer to win the lightweight title in over twenty years.
Toledo López’s success in the boxing ring has been a testament to his hard work and dedication. His talent and determination have earned him a place among the world’s elite boxers and have provided a great source of pride for his home country of Cuba.
38. Carlos Banteux
Carlos Banteur Suárez is an amateur boxer from Santiago de Cuba, who is widely known for having qualified for the 2008 Olympics in the welterweight category.
His success and talent have earned him a great degree of recognition in Cuba, though some sources outside the country have misspelled his last name as Banteaux, Banteaur or Banteux. Suárez is often referred to as one of Cuba’s most well-known amateur boxers.
He began boxing at the age of fifteen after being inspired by the achievements of his older brother, who was also an amateur boxer.
Although Suárez initially found it difficult to adjust to the discipline and rigor of boxing, he eventually became a successful athlete, competing in tournaments across the country.
At the age of 22, Suárez qualified for the 2008 Olympics in the welterweight category, representing Cuba. This was a major accomplishment for Suárez, as it was the first time a Cuban boxer had qualified for the Olympics in the welterweight category.
His success at the Olympics brought him a great deal of fame and recognition in Cuba, and he has since become a role model for aspiring amateur boxers.
Despite his success, some sources outside Cuba have misspelled Suárez’s name on occasion, making it Banteaux, Banteaur or Banteux. However, this does not diminish his accomplishments, and Suárez is still widely regarded as one of Cuba’s most successful amateur boxers.
39. Yankiel León
Yankiel León Alarcón is an accomplished Cuban amateur boxer. He is best known for his remarkable performance at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing where he won a silver medal in the bantamweight category.
His victory was a significant milestone for Cuban boxing and a source of pride for his country. Alarcón was born in Cienfuegos, a city in central Cuba, and began his boxing career in his teens.
He quickly rose through the ranks of Cuban amateur boxing and was soon competing in international tournaments. He reached the peak of his amateur career at the 2008 Olympics, where he faced off against the best boxers in the world.
After a tough fight, Alarcón was able to come away with the silver medal. Since winning the silver medal, Alarcón has become a celebrated figure in Cuban boxing. He has continued to compete in international tournaments and is an inspiration for aspiring Cuban boxers.
His success serves as a reminder of the potential of Cuban boxing and its reputation as one of the top programs in the world.
40. Yampier Hernández
Yampier Hernández Gonzales is a professional boxer from Cuba who achieved a great accomplishment at the 2008 Olympic Games. He competed in the light flyweight division, where he eventually won a bronze medal.
This achievement is especially impressive because at the time Yampier was only 22 years old.
He had already made a name for himself on the Cuban boxing circuit, and this success at the Olympics was a validation of his hard work. Yampier’s success is an inspiration to many aspiring athletes, demonstrating that dedication, hard work, and perseverance can lead to great accomplishments.
His triumph serves as an example that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. Yampier’s success is a reminder that no matter where you come from, you can reach new heights with dedication and determination.
41. Michel López Núñez
Michel López Núñez is a Cuban former amateur boxer who had a successful career in the sport. He achieved the highest honor in boxing, a bronze medal in the Super Heavyweight category, at the 2004 Summer Olympics.
His success was especially noteworthy given the fact that he was competing against some of the best boxers in the world. In addition to his success in boxing, Michel is also the older brother of Mijaín López Núñez, a Cuban Greco-Roman wrestler.
This makes him part of a family with a strong sporting heritage. Mijaín is also an Olympic medalist, having won gold in the 120 kg weight class at the 2012 Summer Olympics.
Both of the brothers have achieved prestigious accolades, making the López Núñez family a highly successful and respected one in the world of amateur sports.
42. Richar Abril
Richard Abril is a Cuban professional boxer who is well-known in his sport. He is a highly decorated fighter, having won many championships in his career.
Abril is an impressive boxer and has become a household name in Cuba, where he is revered for his skill and determination in the ring. Abril began his boxing career at a young age and has since gone on to become a professional fighter.
He has competed in numerous bouts and has won a number of titles, including the WBA Lightweight World Champion in 2013.
His record stands at thirty one wins, five losses, and one draw, with fifteen of his wins coming by way of knockout. Abril is a popular figure in the boxing world, and his fans admire his technical skill, determination, and courage.
He is known for his aggressive style and powerful punches, and his fights are always entertaining.
His unique nickname “Richar” has added to his mystique, and he is often seen as a symbol of hope and resilience among the Cuban people. Overall, Richard Abril is an impressive professional boxer who has made a name for himself in the world of boxing.
He is a champion in his own right, and his success has made him a beloved figure in Cuba and among boxing fans worldwide.
43. Yudel Johnson
Yudel Johnson Cedeno is a Cuban boxer who has achieved success in both professional and amateur boxing. He is a welterweight, a weight class for boxers between 147-154 pounds, and is best known for his silver medal in the 2004 Olympic Light-Welterweight competition.
He has continued to have success as a professional, having competed in several world title fights. Cedeno’s family name has been written as Johnson by some sources.
It is not clear why his last name is spelled differently, but it is likely due to a combination of variants in spelling, mistranslation, and regional differences.
Regardless of the spelling, Yudel Johnson Cedeno has made a significant contribution to the sport of boxing, both as an amateur and a professional.
44. Diógenes Luna
Diógenes Luna Martínez is a Cuban boxer who achieved success at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. He won the bronze medal in the light welterweight division, competing against boxers from around the world.
In the semifinals, he faced off against Ricardo Williams of the United States, who eventually went on to claim the silver medal. Despite his valiant efforts, Diógenes was ultimately defeated by Williams and was unable to join him on the podium.
Nevertheless, his accomplishment of winning the bronze medal is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
45. Frank Sánchez
Frank Sánchez Faure is an impressive name in the world of boxing. He is a Cuban professional boxer who has achieved a great deal of success in his career. He has held the NABO heavyweight title since 2019, making him one of the top contenders in the heavyweight division.
In addition, he holds the WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title, which he has held since 2020. This has made him a formidable opponent in the boxing ring. Frank Sánchez Faure is known for his powerful punches and unrelenting aggression.
He has faced some of the toughest opponents in his weight class and has come out victorious each time. His boxing style is aggressive and he is quick to get in and out of the ring.
He has a strong presence in the boxing world and is respected by his peers. Sánchez Faure’s hard work and dedication has earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. He is a two-time NABO heavyweight champion and the current WBC Continental Americas heavyweight champion.
His determination and skill have made him a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world.
46. Robert Alfonso
Robert Leosdan Alfonso Acea is an accomplished professional boxer from Cuba. He has achieved a great amount of success throughout his career, but he is most well-known for his victory at the 2007 Pan American Games in the super heavyweight division.
This was the first time a Cuban boxer had won this title in the Pan American Games.
This victory was a huge accomplishment for Acea, and it put him on the map as a premier boxer. Acea had been training for this opportunity for many years prior, and it was certainly a long time coming.
He had worked hard to become the best boxer he could be, and it all paid off when he won the gold medal. Since then, he has continued to perform at a high level and is now one of the most respected Cuban boxers in the world.
His hard work and dedication are truly an inspiration to others. Acea’s success at the Pan American Games has helped to bolster the reputation of Cuban boxing as a whole.
It has shown that Cuban boxers can compete with the best in the world and that they are just as capable of success. As a result, Cuban boxing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it is sure to continue to grow in the future.
47. Angel Espinosa
Ángel Espinosa Capó was a Cuban amateur boxer who achieved great success in the 1980s. He competed in the junior middleweight and middleweight categories and was exceptionally talented in the ring.
At the height of his career, he captured the 1986 World Amateur Boxing Championships, cementing his status as one of the most decorated boxers of his era.
Capó’s skill and technique in the ring earned him respect from his peers, and he was known for his ability to read his opponents and anticipate their moves. This tactical prowess enabled him to remain at the top of his game for many years.
He was also known for his strong work ethic, often pushing himself to his limits in training and during fights. Throughout his career, Capó earned a variety of awards and accolades.
He won multiple national championships, and his win at the 1986 World Amateur Boxing Championships was a crowning achievement. His success in the ring made him an iconic figure in Cuba and inspired a generation of amateur boxers.
Capó is remembered as a legendary figure in Cuban sports. He was a master of the ring, and his dedication to the sport of boxing earned him the respect of his peers and fans around the world.
His remarkable accomplishments continue to inspire amateur boxers today, and his legacy will live on for years to come.
Conclusion
Cuba has a long and proud history of producing some of the best boxing players in the world.
From the legendary Teófilo Stevenson to the more recent superstars Guillermo Rigondeaux, Yuriorkis Gamboa and Luis Ortiz, Cuba has consistently produced high-level boxers who have competed at the highest levels and achieved great success.
The talent of Cuban boxers is undeniable and it is clear that the island nation will continue to produce world-class boxers for many years to come.
