Friday, October 27, 2023.- Cuban boxer Julio César La Cruz arrived at Santiago 2023 as one of the biggest stars. He had previously won gold medals in Guadalajara 2011, Toronto 2015, and Lima 2019, so he came to Chile in search of his fourth consecutive title.

He did not disappoint, as in a closely contested bout in the final of the 92-kilogram male's category, the Cuban pugilist defeated Brazilian Keno Machado in a split decision (4-1), further solidifying his legendary status.

The Olympic champion from Rio de Janeiro 2016 and Tokyo 2020 dominated the fight, but Machado proved to be a tough opponent, especially in the second round, where four out of the five judges scored it in his favor. However, in the third round, "La Sombra" asserted his greater experience and established the necessary lead to secure the victory.

In other finals on this day, in the 71-kilogram male's category, Mexican Marco Verde defeated Ecuadorian José Gabriel Rodríguez in a unanimous decision (5-0), and Canadian Amanda Thibeault achieved the same result as she overcame Panamanian Atheyna Bylon in the female's 75-kilogram category.

Written by Camila Silva; translated by Vicente Valdivia / Santiago 2023 via Photosport
Photo by Andrés Piña / Santiago 2023 via Photosport