Cuban boxers allowed to fight professionally for first time in 60 years

Professional boxing returns to Cuba

For the first time in 60 years, Cuban boxers are now able to compete professionally without the need to defect to another nation.

Restrictions had been in place since 1962, under the regime of Fidel Castro, prohibiting Cuban boxers from fighting professionally. So, the lifting of the ban is a landmark moment for Cuba.

The nation’s boxing federation has taken the decision to lift the ban after it agreed a deal with Golden Ring Promotions. This means that fighters who currently only compete at amateur and Olympic level, will now be able to fight overseas.

The nation has a rich boxing history and has produced famous boxing names such as Teofilo Stevenson and Felix Savon. However, they were only limited on where they were able to compete.

The first event that we could see the professional debut of Cuban fighters is on May 20 in Mexico. It could feature Tokyo Olympic champions Julio César La Cruz, Arlen López, and Roniel Iglesas.