For eight years, he has been shaping champions more than 13,000 kilometers from his hometown of "Amancio." Boxing coach Armando Bauzá Martínez is taking advantage of these weeks of rest in Cuba to reconnect with his people and his homeland. While receiving the constant greetings of acquaintances who stop him on the streets, he mentally reviews the successes achieved in gyms across China, where his adapted Cuban style has gained popularity and respect.
"Amancio", Las Tunas.– His work there is comprehensive. "I'm working with all weight classes, all genders, and all styles," he says. His work ranges from talent scouting for specialized schools to training fitness professionals and enthusiasts.
RESULTS THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
The fruits of his dedication are tangible. Shortly before embarking on his trip to Cuba, one of his boxers competed for and won the Asian title. Another student, of Turkish nationality, was crowned champion in Beijing. “And so, working on fitness. Chinese boxing, especially women's boxing, is very popular with women for maintaining their bodies, health, and fitness,” explains regarding this aspect of his work.
For Bauzá, the key has been adaptation. The Cuban style, recognized worldwide for its refined technique and footwork, has had to merge with local preferences for a more impactful style of boxing. “I'm working on a balance between a little bit of legwork, coordination, and a little bit of strength. There's a combination of amateur and professional boxing, and so far, it's working out well,” he says about his hybrid methodology.
THE LANGUAGE CHALLENGE AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
One of the biggest initial challenges, language, was overcome with practical demonstrations and patience. “The Chinese language is very, very complicated. I explain the technical aspects of boxing in both Chinese and English, and I also do a lot of demonstrations. They need to be able to observe. And so far, everything is flowing well,” he says about how he overcame the language barrier.
His immediate plans are focused on the 2026 National Pioneer Games. He works with a group of five or six children in Beijing, one of whom has already been recruited by a high-performance school. “I have three or four with great talent,” he affirms with pedagogical pride. His philosophy is based on constant preparation: “For me, the projections are made year-round. I don't wait for a competition to plan it for. I plan for myself and my students year-round,” he emphasizes.
The recent results are encouraging. “Just before coming here, on December 6th, we held a competition at my gym. In the Pioneer category, I won four and lost one. In the adult fitness category, we won three,” he recounts, highlighting the good form of his academy.
MEETING WITH HIS ROOTS
This brief return to Cuba is, above all, a balm for the soul. “I needed a break, to be with my people. I’ve been here a few days, and I’ve barely left the house. And I’m having a great time,” he confesses. That is palpable in the streets: “Everyone stops me to say hello. ‘Champ, champion, how’s it going?’” he says, laughing.
While enjoying the warmth of his family and the recognition of his people, Armando Bauzá is already envisioning his return to the Asian rings. There, with sweat and skill, he will continue writing, from afar, a chapter in Cuban boxing that transcends borders, guided by a simple maxim: “A lot of work, a lot of work, and so far, good reception.”
