Cuban Álvarez Aims to Retain Continental Boxing Strap

Mexican Raúl Hernández was confirmed today in Havana by the local press as the challenger to Cuba's Lázaro Álvarez in the professional boxing headliner scheduled for November 29 in the resort of Varadero.

The sports publication Jit revealed that Álvarez, a three-time world amateur champion, will defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) continental title for the third time in a 10-round bout against Hernández.

It was at this same venue, the Meliá Internacional hotel, alongside one of the world's most famous beaches, that the Cuban won his first professional title. The island's pugilist, who also boasts a trio of Olympic bronze medals, remains undefeated in six professional outings.

Álvarez and Hernández will clash in the 61.3-kilogram division, one of three fights placed in the card's stellar segment. The Mexican fighter's record shows 15 wins, three losses, and two draws, according to the report.

Also generating significant expectation is the bout for the WBA continental gold between Erislandy Álvarez, an Olympic champion in Paris 2024, and Mexico's Rogelio Jiménez at 63.5 kg. With a perfect 6-0 record in the professional ranks, Erislandy will face a boxer with 14 wins, two losses, and one draw.