Cuban Judo Looks to the Future

Cuban judo, despite facing challenges and closing 2025 with results ranging from expected to promising, is already looking toward the future with specific names poised to lead the current Olympic cycle. The International Judo Federation (IJF) world ranking reveals a landscape where experience intertwines with the emergence of new talents.

In the over-100-kilogram category, judoka Andy Granda stands as the leading male figure, ending the year ranked 11th in the world with 3,021 points. This position solidifies him as Cuba’s top-ranked athlete in the senior category, reflecting his consistency and strong performance in international competitions.

On the women’s side, the most prominent figure is Maylín del Toro, who holds the 21st position in the 63 kg division, according to the Cuban News Agency (ACN).

The men’s senior ranking is complemented by the presence of Iván Felipe Silva (18th in 100 kg), who has moved to this division after competing in the 90 kg category, Jonathan Charón (18th in 60 kg), and Orlando Polanco (35th in 66 kg). In the women’s list, Lianet Cardona (41st in 78 kg) follows Del Toro in the standings.

However, the greatest expectations for the future lie in the youth category. On the women’s side, Dayanara Curbelo (+78 kg) stands out as a prominent figure, earning a commendable eighth place in the rankings. Her talent was validated with a gold medal at the Asunción Pan American Games and a seventh-place finish at the World Junior Championships.

She is joined on this youth list by figures such as Lisrialis González (28th in 78 kg), Yunaisy Febles (39th in 48 kg), Wendy Martínez (40th in 63 kg), and Yanet Coronado (48th in 48 kg).

In the men’s youth category, Zail Ramírez (11th in 100 kg) leads the rankings, followed by Naysdel Cardoso (24th in 90 kg) and Adel Fresneda (34th in 66 kg).

Although overall results fell short of expectations for some, participation in high-level tournaments such as Grand Prix, Grand Slam, and World Championships (both senior and junior, including the Asunción Pan American Games) has been crucial for earning ranking points and providing valuable competitive experience for the athletes.

The quartet composed of Andy Granda, Iván Felipe Silva, Jonathan Charón, and Maylín del Toro, combined with the emerging talent of Dayanara Curbelo, are shaping up as the leading figures for the current Olympic cycle. This blend of experience and youth must face upcoming challenges with a focus on reclaiming international prominence.