On September 28, 2024, the city of Granada, Nicaragua, also known as “La Gran Sultana,” played host to an unforgettable night of boxing at the Martha Morales Sports Center. The Alexis Argüello Cup, a prestigious national boxing competition, saw two of the country’s fiercest teams, Los Caciques de Carazo and Los Tiburones de Granada, go head-to-head. The event was a testament to Nicaragua’s growing commitment to nurturing young boxing talent, as fighters from both teams gave it their all in the ring, delivering twelve thrilling matches filled with excitement and skill.
This night was more than just about winning and losing; it was about showcasing the future stars of Nicaraguan boxing. The Alexis Argüello Cup has become an essential platform for young athletes to prove their mettle, and the September 28th bouts certainly did not disappoint. The event was a clear display of talent, with each fighter demonstrating their commitment to the sport and the competitive spirit it fosters.
Female Boxer Rebeca Pravia Shines for Granada
One of the standout fighters of the night was Rebeca Pravia, who secured a victory for Granada in the female category. Pravia, brimming with confidence, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to compete at such a high level. “I’m so happy to have the chance to practice boxing and to have all the resources and support needed to perform at my best,” she shared after her victory. For young athletes like Pravia, the Alexis Argüello Cup is a crucial stepping stone towards future success, providing a platform where they can sharpen their skills and gain valuable experience.
A Platform for New Talent
Iván Rivera, the municipal delegate for the Nicaraguan Sports Institute, highlighted the importance of the event in developing the next generation of boxing stars. According to Rivera, the matches on September 28 marked the conclusion of the Group C competition cycle in the Alexis Argüello Cup. He emphasized that the Cup offers emerging talents the opportunity to rise to the professional level and praised Granada for its continuous support of boxing through various community initiatives. “Granada is at the forefront when it comes to promoting boxing. Beyond the Alexis Argüello Cup, the city also supports smaller boxing events in neighborhoods and communities, in collaboration with the Alexis Argüello Sports Movement,” Rivera explained.
Karen Gómez, the departmental coordinator of the Alexis Argüello Sports Movement for Sandinista Youth, echoed these sentiments, adding that the Cup, along with other sports activities like the Minor League Soccer Championship, plays a pivotal role in encouraging widespread participation in sports throughout the department. For her, the Alexis Argüello Cup is more than just a competition; it is a key initiative aimed at making sports accessible to the masses.
A Community United by Sports
The impact of sports on Granada’s community was clear from the enthusiasm of the crowd. Local families were out in full force to support their fighters, with many expressing their satisfaction with how sports have evolved in the department. “There’s been a huge change when it comes to sports here in Granada. We have boxing, soccer, volleyball, basketball, and martial arts—something for everyone,” said Kathy Ramírez, a local resident who attended the event. Ramírez praised the variety of sports activities available in Granada, noting that it allows families to not only participate in sports but also to attend exciting events like the Alexis Argüello Cup.
Luis Molina, who attended the event with his children, was equally thrilled. His passion for boxing runs deep, and although he never had the opportunity to fight himself, he is excited to see his children grow up in an environment where sports are valued. “My dream was always to box, but I never had the chance. Now I’m happy to see young people being supported to achieve their dreams. If my children want to box, I’ll support them, because I know this sport is appreciated now,” he shared.
The Legacy of the Alexis Argüello Cup
The Alexis Argüello Cup is not just a local event; it has grown to become the largest boxing event in Nicaragua, with competitions taking place across the country. Earlier in the year, the Nicaraguan Sports Movement announced the XI edition of the Cup, which spans multiple stages and involves 21 teams from all regions of the country. With over 600 registered athletes, including 138 women, the tournament is a monumental effort backed by the government to support boxing and foster the next generation of Nicaraguan champions.
National champions, such as Rosendo Álvarez and René “El Gemelo” Alvarado, have been vocal about the importance of events like the Alexis Argüello Cup. They see these competitions as essential for the development of young athletes, giving them access to the support and facilities they need to succeed. “In our time, we didn’t have these opportunities,” Alvarado shared. “Today’s youth have everything they need to succeed in boxing, from training equipment to proper competition clothing. This cup is a breeding ground for future national and professional champions.”
A Night to Remember
As the night drew to a close at the Martha Morales Sports Center, the excitement and energy from the evening’s fights lingered in the air. The crowd left with high spirits, proud of their local heroes and confident in the bright future of Nicaraguan boxing. Los Tiburones de Granada, with their strong performance against Los Caciques de Carazo, remain determined to continue their winning ways as they progress in the Alexis Argüello Cup.
With the support of local authorities, the Alexis Argüello Sports Movement, and the enthusiasm of the community, events like these will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of boxing in Nicaragua. For now, the spotlight remains on Granada, a city that is quickly becoming synonymous with boxing excellence.
