HOLY SUNDAY. The Dominican Wrestling Federation (Fedola) presented a plaque of recognition to the five-time Olympic champion, Cuban Maijaín López, in an emotional event held in the sport’s Pavilion of the Olympic Center.
The event was led by Mr. Antonio Acosta, president of Fedola, who defined the now retired Cuban athlete as a sports legend and an example for children and young people.
“This athlete (Mijaín) is an example for young people who have chosen the path of sport. The Wrestling Federation wanted to give him great recognition, as he deserves,” said Acosta, who highlighted that López has built a legacy in the sport of Greek wrestling for the world and America.
Meanwhile, Mijaín López recalled that the Dominican Republic is a very special country because it was where he won his first gold medal in the Pan American Games, in 2003.
“I just want to urge all athletes, especially those in wrestling, that nothing is impossible, that everything is possible and follow your dreams,” added the former athlete.
Mijaín López is the only athlete in any individual sport with five medals in the Central American and Caribbean, Pan American and Olympic Games in the same number of consecutive cycles.
Also present at the activity was Ángel Arzuaga Reyes, Cuban ambassador to the Dominican Republic, who highlighted the figure of his fellow athlete, as well as the brotherhood in sporting terms between both countries.
Dr. Dionisio Guzmán, president of the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame, was also present at the meeting; Rafael Villalona, former president of Fedogolf; Rafael Sosa, former head of the Fedola, and Tony Mesa, Cuban technical director, among others.
From the Dominican people was incredible, and it motivated me to continue competing here. The wrestling community in the Dominican Republic is growing stronger every year, and I’m excited to see more athletes emerging from this nation.
Interviewer: Today, we have the honor of talking to two special guests who have played significant roles in the world of wrestling, especially in the Dominican Republic. First, we have Mr. Antonio Acosta, President of the Dominican Wrestling Federation, and alongside him, the five-time Olympic champion, Cuban Maijaín López. Thank you for joining us today.
Interview with Antonio Acosta, President of the Dominican Wrestling Federation:
Interviewer: Mr. Acosta, can you tell us more about the significance of this event and how it came about? What prompted the Wrestling Federation to recognize Maijaín López’s achievements in such a grand manner?
Antonio Acosta: It’s my pleasure. This event was our way of recognizing Maijaín López’s outstanding career in wrestling. He is a true legend and an inspiration to many young athletes, not just in the Dominican Republic but around the world. We wanted to show our appreciation for all that he has done for the sport and honor his exceptional legacy.
Interviewer: Absolutely. Maijaín López is truly an icon in the world of wrestling. Speaking of his legacy, he has won numerous medals in various competitions. How do you think his achievements have impacted the wrestling community in the Dominican Republic and beyond?
Antonio Acosta: His legacy is undeniable. Maijaín López has not only achieved great things for himself but has also helped put Dominican wrestling on the map. His success has inspired many young athletes to take up the sport and strive for excellence. His presence in the Dominican Republic has also helped strengthen ties between our nation and Cuba, where he started his career.
Interview with Maijaín López, Five-time Olympic champion:
Interviewer: Maijaín López, it’s great to have you here with us today. Can you share a bit about your experiences representing the Dominican Republic in international competitions? What made you decide to compete here and what do you think of the wrestling community in the country?
Maijaín López: Thank you for having me. I am honored to be here. I first came to the Dominican Republic to compete in the 2003 Pan American Games, where I won my first gold medal. The support I received
