40 Facts About Erislandy Lara

Early Life and Amateur Career

Erislandy Lara's journey in boxing began in Cuba, where he quickly made a name for himself. His early years were marked by dedication and success.

1. Lara started boxing in Cuba's sports schools, showing promise from a young age.
2. He became a prominent figure in amateur boxing, earning a spot on the Cuban national team.
3. In 2005, Lara won a gold medal in the welterweight division at the World Championships.
4. His amateur career included three consecutive Cuban national championships from 2005 to 2007.
5. Lara's amateur record boasts victories over notable opponents like Bakhtiyar Artayev and Magomed Nurutdinov.

Defection from Cuba

Lara's path to professional boxing was fraught with challenges, including his defection from Cuba.

6. In 2007, Lara attempted to defect from Cuba during the Pan American Games in Brazil but was caught and returned.
7. After being banned from boxing in Cuba, Lara made a successful second defection attempt in 2008.
8. He eventually reached Hamburg, Germany, joining other Cuban boxers like Odlanier Solis and Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Professional Debut and Early Career

Lara's professional career began with a series of victories that showcased his skills and potential.

9. Lara made his professional debut on January 1, 2009, in Turkey.
10. His early career was marked by impressive wins, highlighting his technical prowess and defensive skills.
11. Before turning professional, Lara had an impressive amateur record, winning numerous tournaments and championships.

Professional Career Highlights

Lara's professional career has been decorated with multiple world titles and significant achievements.

12. He held the interim WBA light middleweight championship from June 8, 2013, to March 13, 2014.
13. Lara won the regular WBA light middleweight title on March 13, 2014, holding it until June 8, 2016.
14. He also held the super WBA light middleweight title from June 8, 2016, to April 7, 2018.
15. Lara was the IBO light middleweight champion twice between 2015 and 2021.

Current World Titles and Rankings

Lara continues to be a dominant force in boxing, holding significant titles and rankings.

16. As of 2021, Lara is the WBA middleweight champion.
17. He has been ranked as the world's fifth-best active middleweight by BoxRec as of May 2022.

Defensive Style and Southpaw Stance

Lara's unique fighting style and stance have contributed significantly to his success.

18. Lara is renowned for his impressive defensive style, earning him the nickname "The American Dream."
19. His ability to evade punches and counterattack makes him a formidable opponent.
20. Lara fights in a southpaw stance, giving him an advantage against orthodox opponents.

Family and Personal Life

Lara's personal life has provided stability and support throughout his career.

21. In 2017, Lara and his wife, Yudi, were granted American citizenship.
22. The couple has three children and lives in Houston, Texas.
23. Lara's stable family life has been a key factor in his success in the ring.

Relationship History

Lara's relationships have played a significant role in his personal life.

24. Before marrying Yudi, Lara was in a relationship with Karen Álvarez.
25. Lara has two sons from an earlier relationship, Erislandy and Roberlandy, who remain in Cuba with his mother, Maricel.

Legacy in Boxing

Lara's impact on the sport of boxing is profound and continues to grow.

26. Lara's journey from Cuba to professional boxing is an inspiring tale of perseverance and hard work.
27. His technical prowess and defensive skills have raised the bar for boxers worldwide.
28. Lara's ability to adapt his style over the years has shown that boxers can evolve and remain competitive well into their careers.

Notable Fights

Lara has faced several high-profile opponents, showcasing his skill and determination.

29. One of Lara's most notable fights was against Canelo Alvarez in 2014, which he lost by a split decision.
30. The bout against Alvarez was widely regarded as one of the best fights of the year.

Current Status and Future Plans

Lara remains active in boxing, with significant plans for the future.

31. As of 2024, Lara is preparing for a significant bout against Danny Garcia.
32. At 41 years old, Lara remains confident and determined to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
33. Lara's professional record stands at 30-3-3, with 18 knockouts.

Impact on Cuban Boxing

Lara's success has had a significant impact on Cuban boxing, inspiring future generations.

34. Lara's achievements have shown that with hard work and dedication, greatness can be achieved beyond Cuba's borders.
35. His legacy will continue to inspire Cuban boxers for years to come.

Technique and Adaptability

Lara's technique and adaptability have been key factors in his success.

36. Initially known for his slick boxing style, Lara has evolved to become a more aggressive fighter.
37. This adaptability has allowed him to stay competitive and relevant in the sport.

Inspirational Figure and Community Involvement

Lara's journey serves as an inspiration, and he is actively involved in his community.

38. Lara is an inspirational figure for anyone who has faced adversity, demonstrating what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance.
39. He is involved in various community initiatives, particularly in Houston, Texas.

Media Presence and Fan Support

Lara enjoys strong media presence and fan support, particularly among Cuban-American communities.

40. Lara's nickname "The American Dream" reflects his journey from Cuba to the United States, where he has built a successful career and established himself as a beloved figure in the boxing world.

Lara's Lasting Legacy

Erislandy Lara's journey from Cuba to the pinnacle of professional boxing is nothing short of inspiring. His defensive prowess, southpaw stance, and technical skills have made him a standout in the sport. With multiple world titles under his belt, Lara's career highlights his resilience and adaptability.

His influence extends beyond the ring, inspiring young Cuban boxers and engaging with his community in Houston. As he prepares for his bout against Danny Garcia, Lara aims to cement his legacy further. His story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness.

Lara's impact on boxing will be felt for years to come, serving as a beacon of perseverance and excellence. Whether he continues fighting or steps away, his contributions to the sport are undeniable. Lara's legacy is one of triumph, inspiration, and unwavering determination.