The four Cubans who participated in the 45th Independence Cup Boxing Tournament, held in the Dominican Republic, conquered gold medals, reaffirming the high level and solidity of this discipline on the island.

Saidel Horta prevailed in the 60 kg category over Dominican Yohan Agüero by a 4-1 vote, in a bout that some spectators considered close.

However, beyond the perception in the stands, the Cuban evidenced greater technical dominance in the ring, with better shot selection, distance control, and greater effectiveness in his combinations—elements that tipped the balance in his favor.

Olympic champion Erislandy Álvarez prevailed by RSC in the second round over Javier Valdés, also representing the host country, in the 65 kg division.

Valdés connected with some effective punches but found himself facing a rival with extensive experience and technical resources. Álvarez managed the fight's tempo better, responded with precision, and managed to send him to the canvas twice, actions that precipitated the referee's decision to stop the bout.

Nelson William (90 kg) crossed gloves with Guatemalan Miguel Alejandro Teo in a fight more tactical than explosive.

Facing a rival who tried to shorten the distance and take the fight to close quarters, the Cuban concentrated on maintaining control from medium and long range. With better rhythm management and greater clarity in his actions, William secured victory by 4-1.

Two-time Olympic champion Julio César La Cruz closed Cuba's performance at the Independence Cup with an impeccable presentation against Dominican Agustín Tisert.

La Cruz imposed his stamp from the first compás of the fight, displaying his hand and foot speed.

The difference lay in the refined technique and experience of the veteran Cuban boxer, who knew how to anticipate his rival's movements, control the distance, and connect the clearest punches of the bout. His dominance was evident and translated into a convincing 5-0 victory.

Earlier, the three Cuban women who stepped into the ring on Saturday night at the Independence Cup final starred in a perfect day by conquering three gold medals.

Dayira Mesa (70 kg) imposed herself authoritatively 5-0 over Arisleidis Tavares of the Dominican Republic; Yoana Rodríguez (75 kg) defeated Kimberly Gittens of Barbados 5-0; while Magda Massó conquered the first gold medal for her country in the 57 kg division by unanimous decision 5-0 against local Génesis de la Rosa.

With tonight's results, Cuba was proclaimed champion of the 45th edition of the Independence Cup, following a dominant performance that placed it at the top of the tournament's medal table.

Cuba led the team standings with 31 points, followed by the Dominican Republic with 29 and Guatemala with 12 points.

The 45th edition of the Independence Cup brought together boxers from eight countries, consolidating itself as a tournament of great tradition in Santiago de los Caballeros, where it has become a mandatory event in regional amateur boxing.

In addition to its historical prestige, the tournament had special relevance this year by serving as preparation for the qualifiers to be held in March in Mexico, with an eye toward the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games.

Cubans residing in Santiago de los Caballeros accompanied the island's team during the competition, led by the president of the Máximo Gómez Association, Enrique Portuondo, and the ambassador of Cuba, Ángel Arzuaga, who provided their support and followed the athletes' performance.