A Semifinal That Sparked a Nation
Julio César la Cruz, Cuba’s legendary boxing captain, may have fallen short of gold at the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, but his bronze medal performance reignited hope for Cuba’s Olympic boxing dreams. The two-time Olympic champion battled valiantly in the +90 kg semifinals against Kazakhstan’s rising powerhouse Aibek Oralbay, ultimately losing in a razor-thin 2-3 split decision.
The loss was bitter, but not without brilliance. La Cruz proved that even at this stage in his career, he remains one of the sport’s most tactical and inspiring fighters.
From Heavyweight to Super Heavy — A Strategic Evolution
Both La Cruz and Oralbay transitioned from heavyweight to super heavyweight after the Paris 2024 Olympics. For the Cuban captain, this strategic move was a test — and he passed it with honors. Throughout the World Championships, La Cruz demonstrated fluid movement, sharp counters, and the mental discipline that’s defined his career.
Oralbay, at just 25, advances to the finals and possibly gold. But La Cruz’s presence in the top four proves that the veteran’s fire hasn’t faded — it’s only shifted weight classes.
Eyes on LA28: The Captain’s Final Charge?
As the countdown to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics begins, this bronze shines brighter than defeat. It signals a reinvention — not retirement. La Cruz is fully adapted to the +90 kg division, and his path forward looks promising. With the experience of a general and the hunger of a newcomer, he remains Cuba’s best hope to return to Olympic glory.
