Three Cuban Boxers to Watch Before the Year Ends

Cuban boxing is steeped in history when it comes to amateur boxing producing some of the best amateur fighters the sport has ever seen. As the years have progressed, a handful have moved to the professional code. Guillermo Rigondeaux is one of the most well-known Cuban boxers, and Andy Cruz, despite having only five fights is showing the capabilities to trouble the best at lightweight. Away from Cruz, Big Fight Weekend brings you three Cuban boxers in 2025 who were tipping to make a splash.

Three Cuban Boxers in 2025 Set to Make Headlines

Three Cuban Boxers in 2025: Erislandy Alvarez

Erislandy Álvarez (4-0, 2 KOs) won the gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. His professional journey began with a split-decision win against Jose Segura Torres. He has been dominant since, including his most recent win against Brainer Soli, winning after 28 seconds of the first round.

The 24-year-old is an exceptional fighter who has all the ability to go right to the top of the sport. He possesses impressive footwork and counters smartly. With the right support and guidance, world titles surely beckon.

Jadier Herrera

Jadier Herrera (17-0, 15 KOs) is pure box office. He carries plenty of power and has not shied away from calling out the best in the division, including Shakur Stevenson. He had scored impressive wins over Oliver Flores and Mariano Jorge Bertola before his most recent stoppage success vs Jose Macias Enriquez, where Herrera was criticised for rushing his work and being tagged too frequently but still managed to get the stoppage done.

Julio Cesar La Cruz

Julio César La Cruz (4-0, 4 KOs) has enjoyed a perfect start to his professional career. He had a storied amateur career, winning a plethora of gold medals including at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics. At 35 years old, Cruz will need to be active in 2025 and beyond to make a significant dent in the heavyweight division.

As shown in his latest win over Dilan Prašović, the power is obvious as he showcased his unorthodox style and impressive power. He moves his feet well and counters precisely with venom. The double Olympic gold medallist was knocked down in the second round, from a left hook. Following a blast from his trainer, Cruz put his foot on the gas, knocking his opponent down four times before the referee waved the fight off.

These three Cuban boxers in 2025 are tipped by us to make serious inroads in their respective divisions. We could’ve done a top 10 with all the Cuban talent emerging right now, but these three stand out — alongside Andy Cruz, who we’re backing for a massive 2025.