The Cuban boxing landscape is set to transform significantly following a landmark agreement between the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (INDER) and AGON Sports & Events GmbH. This partnership aims to facilitate the participation of Cuban boxers in both domestic and international professional events, offering them more lucrative financial opportunities. Notable fighters such as two-time Olympic champion Roniel Iglesias and Jorge Soto will make their professional debuts on February 28 in Yoshkar-Ola, Russia. Additionally, Erislandy Álvarez, the Paris 2024 titleholder, is scheduled to compete in Beijing, China, in April. The collaboration signifies a pivotal shift towards professionalism while maintaining Cuba's renowned boxing legacy.

The signing of this agreement marks a historic moment for Cuban athletes. By partnering with AGON Sports, INDER has paved the way for top-tier Cuban boxers to showcase their skills on global platforms. Roniel Iglesias, who has secured Olympic gold twice, will be among the first to step into the professional ring alongside Jorge Soto. Both fighters are slated to participate in an event in Russia at the end of February. Although their opponents have yet to be finalized, the Cuban Boxing Federation's president, Alberto Puig de la Barca, confirmed their participation and revealed that Iglesias will engage in another professional bout in Russia just days later on March 7.

Another significant milestone awaits Erislandy Álvarez, who will face Tajik boxer Bakhodur Usmonov in the semifinals of the IBA Professional World Cup. This encounter, scheduled for April in Beijing, follows Álvarez's victory over Kazakh fighter Adilet Kurmetov last November. His talent and potential have garnered attention, positioning him as a rising star in the professional circuit. The involvement of AGON Sports, known for promoting high-profile matches like Scull vs. Canelo, further underscores the growing prominence of Cuban boxers on the world stage.

The implications of this collaboration extend beyond individual achievements. Journalist Aníbal Oliva highlighted the significance of AGON Sports' role in major boxing events, suggesting that this partnership could open new avenues for Cuban boxers. As the sports world anticipates the Scull vs. Canelo matchup, the agreement between AGON Sports and INDER heralds a new era for Cuban boxing. It promises not only greater visibility but also substantial financial rewards, ensuring that the island's rich boxing tradition continues to thrive in the professional realm.