This year, the Cuban government has announced the continuation of the professional boxing celebration, marking its second consecutive year. However, unlike last year's event held at the Coliseum of Sports City, this time the "Cuban Boxing Night" will take place at the prestigious Meliá Internacional Hotel in Varadero. Not only has the venue changed, but the event has also shifted from being free to requiring ticket purchases. Travel agencies are actively promoting the event, with packages available that include accommodation and entry tickets. The main attractions include six fights, featuring top Cuban boxers alongside international competitors, as well as the historic debut of Yakelin Estornell, the first Cuban woman to participate in a professional match.
Shifting from its previous location, the 2023 edition of the professional boxing night moves to the luxurious surroundings of the Meliá Internacional Hotel in Varadero. This decision signifies an upgrade in both organization and presentation. Tickets can be acquired through designated outlets such as Cubadeportes S.A., Tryp Habana Libre Hotel, and the hosting hotel itself. While official pricing remains undisclosed, travel agency promotions offer insights into potential costs, including a package by Solways starting at $206 per adult per night. These deals encompass not only entry to the event but also accommodations and transportation services, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
The lineup boasts an impressive array of talent, headlined by two-time Olympic champion Julio César "La Sombra" la Cruz squaring off against Montenegrin Dilan Prasovic. Another highlight features Olympic gold medalist Erislandy Álvarez taking on Dominican Brainner Vásquez. Further matches include world champion Lázaro Álvarez versus Miguel Queliz and Arlen López facing Martín Ezequiel Bulacio. In addition, the continental gold title fight for America under the World Boxing Association pits Moussa Ghalom against Misael Vázquez over ten rounds. Each bout promises thrilling action and showcases the high caliber of athletes involved.
A landmark moment within the program is the inclusion of Yakelin Estornell, who steps into the ring as the inaugural Cuban female boxer competing professionally on home soil. Her opponent, Dominican fighter Lina Tejada, presents a formidable challenge across four scheduled rounds. This encounter underscores the growing recognition and acceptance of women in professional sports arenas, particularly significant given Cuba's traditionally male-dominated boxing landscape.
Beyond the spectacle of competitive matches, the event serves as a testament to the resurgence of professional boxing in Cuba after years of absence. Organized by the International Boxing Association (IBA), it brings together global participants united by their passion for the sport. With universal titles up for grabs and widespread anticipation building among fans worldwide, this occasion celebrates both the storied past and promising future trajectory of boxing in Cuba. As spectators gather at the iconic resort setting, they will witness firsthand the evolution of one of the nation's most cherished athletic traditions.