Double Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz has just made a successful professional debut in the super heavyweight division, and speculation is already swirling about whether he will remain there to represent Cuba in the upcoming multi-sport events of this four-year cycle.

The iconic captain of Cuba’s Domadores team secured a knockout victory against Montenegrin boxer Dilan Prasovic in last week’s professional card held in Varadero. The event was backed by German promoter AGON Sports, with whom the Cuban Boxing Federation recently established a contractual relationship.

Although the bout ended well before the scheduled 12 rounds, the Camagüey native was knocked down in the second round. This forced him to abandon his usual low-guard style and adopt a more aggressive approach. He managed to knock down his opponent three times, leading the referee to stop the fight as the European boxer could barely defend himself.

This served as a warning that punches hit harder in this division, and La Cruz's traditional style might need some adjustments. However, he still displayed much of his characteristic speed and mobility.

Cuban national team head coach Rolando Acebal clarified that this is not a permanent move. It is partly due to the underwhelming performance of other boxers in the super heavyweight class, as well as La Cruz’s own physical condition, which made it difficult for him to cut down to the 92-kilogram limit of his previous division.

Clearly, La Cruz does not possess the ideal height or weight for a super heavyweight, but his boxing mastery could help him overcome these physical disadvantages.

The main challenge lies in his ingrained fighting habits. At this late stage of his career, changing long-established techniques will be difficult and potentially risky when facing larger, harder-hitting opponents.

The coaching staff will continue to monitor his performance closely. A final decision will be made in the near future as to whether he will remain in the super heavyweight class or return to the 92-kilogram division. After all, as the Cuban saying goes, one cannot undress a saint to clothe another.

Regardless, La Cruz is already a seasoned veteran, and it is essential to consider grooming his successor. Fighting once every three months is not the same as participating in traditional tournaments where a boxer may have to compete four times in a single week.

For now, La Cruz has emerged as a finalist for the World Boxing Association’s (WBA) world title in the division. Time will tell whether he can claim the category as his own in the upcoming multi-sport competitions.

Translated by Sergio A. Paneque Díaz / CubaSí Translation Staff