Cuba wins third gold in boxing

Cuba clinched its second and third gold medals in boxing on Saturday to take its overall gold medal tally at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games to five.

Cuba's Arlen Lopez defeated Uzbekistan's Bektemir Melikuziev in the 75kg final, winning all three rounds by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27 and 29-28).

Earlier in the day, Robeisy Ramirez beat Shakur Stevenson of the Untied States in the 56kg final 2-1.

Before the podium ceremony, Ramirez spoke to reporters about the fight, state daily Granma reported.

"The American is a resourceful fighter," Ramirez said of his rival. "I went out to do my thing, I reached the third round with the fight tied, but it was the last, the final (round), the gold medal, that's why I gave it my all .. to win 2-1," he said.

A smiling Ramirez went on to thank his family for their support, saying "I dedicate (the medal) to my parents, sister, mother-in-law, my daughter Renata, my sick grandfather and late father-in-law, who always insisted that I get up early in the mornings to train, because I'm a bit of a slacker."

Cuban boxer Julio Cesar la Cruz won the country's first gold in the 81kg division.

In boxing, Cuba collected three gold and three bronze medals, improving on its performance at the 2012 London games.

Source : XINHUA