Famous Cuban Sportspersons

Yoel Romero Palacio is a Cuban professional mixed martial artist and former freestyle wrestler. He currently competes in the Light Heavyweight division for Bellator MMA. Romero was a challenger for the UFC Middleweight Championship and previously competed in the Middleweight division for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). As a freestyle wrestler, he achieved numerous accolades including being a World Champion, Olympic Silver medalist, World Cup winner, Pan American Games Gold medalist, and Pan American Champion.

José Fernández was a talented Cuban-born American professional baseball pitcher who played for the Miami Marlins in Major League Baseball. He made a significant impact during his career, being named to All-Star teams, winning awards such as Rookie of the Year, and showcasing his skill and passion for the game. Despite facing challenges early in his career, including undergoing Tommy John surgery, Fernández's dedication and talent shone through. Tragically, his promising career was cut short when he passed away in a boating accident in 2016.

Aroldis Chapman is a dominant left-handed relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. He has played for several teams, including the Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, and Texas Rangers. Chapman is known for his powerful fastball, holding the record for the fastest pitch speed in MLB history. He has earned accolades such as the MLB Delivery Man of the Month Award and multiple All-Star appearances. Chapman played a crucial role in the Cubs' victory in the 2016 World Series.

Yasiel Puig Valdés is a professional baseball right fielder who has played in Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cincinnati Reds, and Cleveland Indians. He has also played in the KBO League for the Kiwoom Heroes and in various countries such as Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Known as "The Wild Horse," Puig made his MLB debut in 2013 with an impressive .319 batting average and 19 home runs. He has since moved between different teams, most recently signing with the Heroes for the 2022 season.

Yoenis Céspedes Milanés, known as "La Potencia," is a former professional baseball outfielder from Cuba. He debuted in MLB in 2012 with the Oakland Athletics and later played for the Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, and New York Mets. Primarily a left fielder, he also played center field. Céspedes had a successful career in the Cuban National Series before joining MLB, with impressive batting statistics and international success with the Cuban national team. He is a two-time Home Run Derby champion, a two-time All-Star, and played in the World Series with the Mets in 2015.

Randy Arozarena is a Cuban-born Mexican professional baseball outfielder currently playing for the Seattle Mariners in MLB. He previously played for the St. Louis Cardinals and Tampa Bay Rays. Arozarena defected from Cuba to join the Cardinals, where he made his MLB debut in 2019. He set a record for most home runs in a single postseason in 2020. Arozarena was traded to the Rays and won the AL Rookie of the Year award. He has also represented Mexico in international competitions and was named to the All-Star Game in 2023.

José Raúl Capablanca y Graupera was a renowned Cuban chess player and the third world chess champion from 1921 to 1927. Known for his exceptional endgame skill and speed of play, he achieved significant victories over top players and made significant contributions to chess theory. Capablanca's style of play, focusing on simplicity and endgames, influenced future world champions such as Bobby Fischer and Anatoly Karpov. His strategic prowess and tactical abilities solidified his reputation as one of the greatest chess players in history.

Teófilo Stevenson Lawrence was a Cuban engineer and amateur boxer who competed from 1966 to 1986. He won the Val Barker Trophy in 1972 and was honored with the Olympic Order in 1987. Stevenson is renowned for being one of only three boxers to win three Olympic gold medals, alongside Hungarian László Papp and fellow Cuban Félix Savón. Throughout his career, Stevenson achieved significant success in the boxing world, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport's all-time greats.

Yasmani Grandal is a prominent professional baseball catcher known for his versatile skills on the field. With an impressive career spanning multiple Major League Baseball teams, including the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Chicago White Sox, Grandal has established himself as a valuable asset in the sport. His talent and dedication have earned him recognition as a two-time MLB All-Star, showcasing his prowess as a top player in the league. Currently, he contributes his expertise to the Pittsburgh Pirates, further solidifying his reputation in the baseball world.

Minnie Miñoso was a trailblazing Cuban professional baseball player, known as "the Cuban Comet." He began in the Negro leagues and later excelled in the MLB as an All-Star third baseman and left fielder. Miñoso was the first Afro-Latino in the major leagues and the first black player in White Sox history. He was a seven-time American League All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner, known for his hitting prowess, base-stealing ability, defensive skills, and power at the plate. Miñoso's impact on the game was significant, earning him a revered place in baseball history.

Erislandy Lara Santoya is a Cuban-American professional boxer known for his technical skills. He currently holds the WBA middleweight title, having previously held multiple world championships in two weight classes. From 2014 to 2021, he held various versions of the WBA light middleweight title and the IBO light middleweight title twice from 2015 to 2021. Lara is ranked as the world's fifth-best active middleweight by BoxRec as of May 2022. He was also successful in the amateur ranks, winning a gold medal at the 2005 World Championships.

Lourdes Gurriel Jr. is a Cuban-American professional baseball left fielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks of MLB. He previously played for the Toronto Blue Jays and Cuban teams before defecting. Recognized as a top international prospect, Gurriel signed with the Blue Jays in 2016. He debuted in 2018 and was later traded to the Diamondbacks in 2023. In his first season with Arizona, he earned his first MLB All-Star Game selection and contributed to the team's run to the 2023 World Series.

Héctor Lombard is a versatile professional mixed martial artist who competes in the Light Heavyweight division of Eagle FC. With a background in judo, Lombard has successfully transitioned into MMA and has competed in various weight classes, including middleweight and welterweight divisions. He is widely recognized for his time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and has also showcased his skills in organizations such as Deep, Pride, and Bellator. Lombard's career highlights include being the inaugural Bellator Middleweight Champion, demonstrating his prowess and competitiveness in the sport.

Orlando Hernández, known as "El Duque," was a right-handed professional baseball pitcher from Cuba. He played for various teams in the Major League Baseball, including the New York Yankees, Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and New York Mets. Hernández achieved great success as a starting pitcher for the Yankees during their World Series victories in 1998, 1999, and 2000. He also earned a World Series ring with the Chicago White Sox in 2005. Hernández was recognized for his distinctive leg kick, use of the Eephus pitch, and playoff performance.

Benny Paret, also known as Benny "Kid" Paret, was a skilled Cuban welterweight boxer who achieved the World Welterweight Championship twice during the early 1960s. His impressive career included a total of 35 wins, with 10 of them by knockout, along with 12 losses and 3 draws. Tragically, Paret's life came to a premature end following injuries sustained in a title defense bout against Emile Griffith on March 24, 1962, a fight that was broadcast live to a massive audience on ABC's Fight of the Week.

Luis Clemente Tiant Vega is a retired Cuban MLB right-handed starting pitcher. He spent 19 years in the league, notably playing for the Cleveland Indians and Boston Red Sox. Tiant boasted a 229–172 record and 2416 strikeouts with a 3.30 ERA, 187 complete games, and 49 shutouts in over 3486 innings. A three-time All-Star and four-time 20-game winner, Tiant led the AL in ERA in 1968 and 1972, strikeouts per nine innings in 1967, and shutouts in 1966, 1968, and 1974. Inducted into several halls of fame, he narrowly missed out on National Baseball Hall of Fame induction multiple times.

Yordan Ruben Álvarez is a Cuban professional baseball player for the Houston Astros in MLB. Known as "Air Yordan," he stands 6 ft 5 in, weighs 225 pounds, bats left-handed, and throws right-handed. Álvarez began his career in the Cuban National Series before defecting to Haiti and signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was traded to the Astros and made his MLB debut in 2019. Álvarez has achieved accolades such as AL Rookie of the Year in 2019 and ALCS MVP in 2021, showcasing his prowess as a powerful hitter with a flair for clutch moments.

Kendrys Morales Rodríguez is a former professional baseball player known for his time as a designated hitter and first baseman in Major League Baseball. He played for several teams including the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Seattle Mariners, Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics, and New York Yankees. Morales also briefly played right field during his career. He gained attention for sustaining an ankle injury in 2010 during a celebration, which sidelined him for nearly two years. In 2015, Morales won a Silver Slugger Award and was part of the Royals' 2015 World Series championship team.

Wilfredo León Venero is a Cuban-Polish professional volleyball player who has represented both the Cuba and Poland national teams. Known for his exceptional skills on the court, León is considered one of the best volleyball players globally. He played a key role in leading Cuba to a silver medal at the 2010 World Championship. León is regarded as a leader of the "Generation of Miracle" in Cuban volleyball. Currently playing for Bogdanka LUK Lublin, he continues to impress fans and experts alike with his outstanding talent and contributions to the sport.

José Abreu is a Cuban-born professional baseball first baseman who has played in Major League Baseball for the Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros. He began his career playing in the Cuban National Series for Cienfuegos before defecting from Cuba. Abreu signed with the White Sox in 2013 and went on to win several awards, including AL Rookie of the Year, Silver Slugger, and AL MVP. He also led the American League in runs batted in multiple times. Abreu later signed with the Astros but was released in 2024.

Danell Leyva is a Cuban American former gymnast who represented the United States in international competitions. He achieved significant success in gymnastics, winning multiple Olympic and World Championships medals. Leyva specialized in parallel bars and horizontal bar, with a distinctive signature move on the horizontal bar. He is known for his accomplishments as the 2012 Olympic individual all-around bronze medalist, 2016 Olympic parallel bars and horizontal bar silver medalist, 2011 US national all-around gold medalist, and 2011 world champion on the parallel bars.

Jorge Soler is a Cuban professional baseball outfielder and designated hitter. He has played for multiple MLB teams including the Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, Miami Marlins, San Francisco Giants, and Atlanta Braves. Soler defected from Cuba in 2011 to pursue a career in MLB. He made his MLB debut in 2014 and has achieved significant success in his career, winning the World Series with the Cubs in 2016 and the Braves in 2021, earning the World Series Most Valuable Player Award in 2021.

Yuriorkis Gamboa Toledano is a skilled Cuban professional boxer known for his success in the featherweight division. He held the WBA featherweight title from 2009 to 2011 and the IBF featherweight title from 2010 to 2011. Prior to his professional career, Gamboa achieved significant accomplishments as an amateur boxer, winning a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics in the flyweight division and a bronze at the 2005 World Championships in the featherweight division. His achievements showcase his talent and prowess in the boxing world.

Yoán Moncada is a professional baseball third baseman playing for the Chicago White Sox in Major League Baseball (MLB). He began his MLB career with the Boston Red Sox in 2016 before being traded to the White Sox. Moncada has made a name for himself as a talented player, being one of the first active MLB athletes to represent the Cuban national team in international competition. He continues to showcase his skills and contribute to the success of the Chicago White Sox.

Guillermo Rigondeaux Ortiz is a highly accomplished Cuban professional boxer, known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the ring. He has held multiple world titles in different weight classes, showcasing his versatility and talent. With an impressive amateur background, including Olympic gold medals, Rigondeaux has demonstrated his prowess through his fast hand speed, punching power, counterpunching abilities, athleticism, reflexes, footwork, and defensive prowess. His undefeated streak for almost nine years highlights his consistency and dominance in the sport.

Kid Chocolate, a Cuban boxer, had a successful professional career from 1927 to 1938. Throughout this time, he achieved a remarkable record of 136 wins, 10 losses, and 6 draws, with 51 wins by knockout. He was recognized for his exceptional boxing skills, notably making Ring magazine's list of boxers with over 50 career knockout wins. His achievements in the ring led to his induction into the International Boxing Hall Of Fame in 1991, solidifying his legacy as one of the sport's greats.

Mijaín López Núñez is a highly accomplished Cuban Greco-Roman wrestler, renowned for his exceptional skills and numerous accolades in the sport. He has achieved remarkable success throughout his career, boasting an impressive record that includes four Olympic gold medals, five World Championships, and five Pan American Games titles. Mijaín López is widely regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, demonstrating unparalleled talent, determination, and sportsmanship in his professional endeavors.

Félix Savón Fabre is a retired Cuban amateur boxer, renowned as one of the greatest amateurs in the sport's history. He achieved immense success during his career, winning three Olympic gold medals and securing the World Champion title six times consecutively in the heavyweight division. Despite tempting offers to defect and pursue a professional boxing career, Savón remained loyal to Cuba. His unwavering dedication to his country and sport solidified his legacy as an icon in boxing history.

Mike Perez is a skilled Cuban and Irish professional boxer known for his prowess in the cruiserweight division. He currently holds the WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight title and has previously challenged for the WBC cruiserweight title in 2017. With a successful career in boxing, Perez has showcased his talent and determination in the ring, earning respect and recognition within the boxing community. His achievements and competitive spirit continue to solidify his position as a prominent figure in the sport.

Luis Ortiz is a Cuban professional boxer known as "King Kong". He held the WBA interim heavyweight title from 2015 to 2016 and has challenged for the WBC heavyweight title twice in 2018 and 2019. As an amateur, he won a silver medal at the 2005 Boxing World Cup. Ortiz is recognized for his impressive punching power and counterpunching skills. He is currently ranked as the world's eighth-best active heavyweight by The Ring magazine and the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board as of November 2021.

Alberto Juantorena is a Cuban former runner who made history by winning Olympic titles in both the 400m and 800m events in 1976. He was ranked as the world's best runner in the 400m from 1974 to 1978 and in the 800m in 1976 and 1977. Juantorena was recognized as the Track & Field News Athlete of the Year in 1976 and 1977 for his outstanding performances. He remains a legendary figure in the world of track and field for his exceptional accomplishments.

José Nápoles was a Cuban-born Mexican professional boxer known for his exceptional skills in the welterweight division. He held the WBA, WBC, and The Ring welterweight titles from 1969 to 1975, earning the status of a two-time undisputed champion. Nápoles is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in the welterweight category and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. He achieved a record for the most wins in unified championship bouts, a feat he shared with Muhammad Ali, which remained unbroken for 40 years.

Javier Sotomayor Sanabria is a retired Cuban track and field athlete known for his exceptional high jump skills. He holds the world record for the high jump, being the only person to clear eight feet. Sotomayor achieved great success in various competitions, including winning gold medals at the Olympics, IAAF World Championships, and Pan American Games. Despite facing setbacks like boycotts and injuries, he maintained his status as the best high jumper of all time before retiring in 2001.

Osmany Juantorena Portuondo is a highly accomplished Cuban-born Italian professional volleyball player. He has represented both the Cuban national volleyball team and the Italian club Modena Volley. Juantorena's impressive career highlights include winning multiple CEV Champions League and FIVB Club World Championship titles with the Italian club Trentino Volley. He has also secured numerous individual accolades, including being the record holder for the highest number of Most Valuable Player awards at the FIVB Club World Championship.

Onel Lázaro Hernández Mayea is a Cuban professional footballer known for his play as a winger for Norwich City in the EFL Championship and the Cuban national team. He started his career in Germany, playing in the 2. Bundesliga for Arminia Bielefeld and Eintracht Braunschweig before joining Norwich City in January 2018. He made history by becoming the first Cuban player to feature and score in the Premier League. Throughout his career, he has also had loan spells at Middlesbrough and Birmingham City in the EFL Championship.

Luis Robert Moirán Jr. is a skilled outfielder for the Chicago White Sox in Major League Baseball. He defected from Cuba in 2016 and signed with the White Sox in 2017, quickly making an impact in the MLB. In 2020, he had a successful debut season, earning the prestigious Gold Glove Award for his exceptional defensive skills. Robert's talent and hard work led to him being recognized as an All-Star in 2023, solidifying his status as a standout player in the league.

Liván Hernández had a successful 17-year career as a professional baseball pitcher in Major League Baseball. He played for nine different teams, earning All-Star honors twice. Hernández was named the MVP of the 1997 World Series. Known for his "slow hook" curveball, he was a reliable defensive pitcher with few errors. He was a workhorse, consistently pitching deep into games and leading the National League in innings pitched for three consecutive seasons. Hernández's durability and pitching prowess were evident throughout his career.

Kid Gavilán, a Cuban boxer, was the former undisputed world welterweight champion from 1951 to 1954, holding the NYSAC, WBA, and The Ring welterweight titles simultaneously. He was named Fighter of the Year in 1953 by the Boxing Writers Association of America. Regarded as one of the greatest fighters, The Ring magazine ranked him 26th in the last 80 years. Gavilán was inducted into The Ring magazine's Boxing Hall of Fame in 1966 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

Aledmys Díaz Serrano is a Cuban professional baseball player currently with the Houston Astros in MLB. He has previously played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, and Oakland Athletics. Díaz began his career in the Cuban National Series before defecting to the United States. Known for his impressive batting average and on-base percentage, he made history in his rookie MLB season by achieving a .500 batting average after 50 at bats and earning an All-Star appearance. Díaz won the 2022 World Series with the Astros.

Frank Sánchez Faure is a Cuban professional boxer known for holding titles such as the NABO heavyweight title and the WBC Continental Americas heavyweight title. With a successful debut in 2015, he has showcased his skill with multiple victories, including a notable win against Victor Bisbal for the WBO-NABO heavyweight title. Sánchez has continued his winning streak, defeating opponents like Joey Dawejko, Brian Howard, and Nagy Aguilera. His victory over Efe Ajagba solidified his place in the boxing world, demonstrating his talent and determination.

Yandy Diaz Fernández is a professional baseball player who currently plays as a third baseman and first baseman for the Tampa Bay Rays in Major League Baseball (MLB). He began his MLB career with the Cleveland Indians before joining the Rays. Known for his versatility in fielding positions, Diaz has established himself as a reliable player with a strong defensive skill set. He continues to make significant contributions to his team's success through his consistent performance and solid batting abilities.

Yuli Gurriel, known as "La Piña", is a Cuban professional baseball first baseman. He has played for various teams in Cuba, Japan, and the United States. Gurriel is a versatile infielder, with experience at shortstop, second base, and third base. He defected from Cuba in 2016 and made his MLB debut that same year. Gurriel has been instrumental in the success of the Houston Astros, helping them win the World Series in 2017 and 2022, as well as earning individual accolades such as the AL batting title and a Gold Glove Award.

Leonel Marshall Borges Jr. is a Cuban professional volleyball player known for his exceptional skills as an outside hitter, particularly his impressive vertical jump. He played a pivotal role in the Cuban men's national volleyball team's victory at the 1999 Pan American Games, securing a gold medal. Marshall Jr. also represented Cuba at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney as the youngest member of the team, contributing to their seventh-place finish. His career highlights showcase his talent and dedication to the sport at the highest levels.

Adeiny Hechavarría Barrera is a versatile professional baseball shortstop with experience in several top leagues. He has played in Major League Baseball for various teams including the Toronto Blue Jays, Miami Marlins, Tampa Bay Rays, Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Atlanta Braves. He has also showcased his skills in Nippon Professional Baseball for the Chiba Lotte Marines. Currently, he is a key player for the Olmecas de Tabasco in the Mexican League, demonstrating his adaptability and proficiency on the field.

Yoandy Leal Hidalgo is a highly accomplished volleyball player known for his skills as a wing-spiker. He began his career with the Cuban national team, where he showcased his talent and earned accolades for his performance. In pursuit of his Olympic dream, Leal made the decision to move to Brazil, where he quickly established himself as a key player for various club teams. His impressive achievements include multiple championship wins and recognition for his exceptional abilities on the court. Leal's dedication and skill have solidified his status as a top player in the sport.

Carlos Alvarez Vazquez Rodriguez Ubieta was a standout wide receiver for the University of Florida from 1969 to 1971. He achieved consensus All-American honors during his college career. After college, Alvarez was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 1972 NFL Draft but chose to pursue a career in the World Football League instead. He played professionally for the Shreveport Steamer and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Alvarez later transitioned to a successful career in business and remained involved in sports through various philanthropic endeavors.

Lourdes Gourriel Delgado is a renowned Cuban baseball player who has achieved great success in his career. He is a skilled athlete who has excelled in the sport and has represented his country at the highest levels of competition. Gourriel has proven himself to be a valuable asset to his teams, showcasing his talents on the field and contributing to numerous victories. His dedication and hard work have earned him recognition as an Olympic gold medalist, solidifying his status as a top performer in the world of baseball.

Yuniel Dorticos Pao is a highly accomplished Cuban professional boxer, known for his impressive career in the cruiserweight division. He has held both the WBA and IBF cruiserweight world titles during his career. As of August 2022, he is ranked among the top active cruiserweights in the world by reputable boxing publications such as The Ring magazine, the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board, and BoxRec. Dorticos' skill, determination, and success in the ring have solidified his reputation as a formidable force in the boxing world.

Dayron Robles is a Cuban track and field athlete specializing in the 110-metre hurdles. He has had a successful career, winning various medals and setting records. In 2008, he achieved the pinnacle of his event by setting a world record and winning an Olympic gold medal. Despite facing injuries that affected his performance in 2009, he made a strong comeback in 2010 with a championship record win. However, he faced disqualification in 2011 due to a rule violation at the World Championships in Athletics.

Regla Torres Herrera, known as Regla Torres, is a Cuban former volleyball player renowned for her exceptional career with the Cuban women's national volleyball team. She achieved significant success, winning three Olympic gold medals and playing a pivotal role as a middle blocker during the team's dominance in the 1990s. Recognized for her talent and contributions to the sport, Torres received the prestigious "Best Player of the 20th Century" award from the FIVB and was honored with induction into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2001.

Yonder Alonso is a Cuban former professional baseball first baseman and current MLB Network analyst. He had a successful career in Major League Baseball, playing for several teams including the Cincinnati Reds, San Diego Padres, Oakland Athletics, Seattle Mariners, Cleveland Indians, Chicago White Sox, and Colorado Rockies. Alonso also played college baseball at the University of Miami before transitioning to the major leagues. Known for his solid defensive skills and power hitting, he made significant contributions to each team he played for throughout his professional career.

Octavio Víctor "Cookie" Rojas Rivas is a Cuban-American former professional baseball player, coach, and manager known for his versatility on the field. He played in Major League Baseball from 1962 to 1977, primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Kansas City Royals. Rojas was an All-Star player and excelled defensively, earning accolades such as leading the American League in fielding percentage. After retiring as a player, Rojas worked as a coach for several MLB teams and eventually transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting. He is also a Hall of Fame inductee for the Kansas City Royals and the Hispanic Heritage Baseball Museum.

Tony Pérez was a Cuban-American professional baseball player, coach, and manager known for his time in Major League Baseball from 1964 to 1986. He played primarily as a first baseman and third baseman for teams like the Cincinnati Reds, Montreal Expos, Boston Red Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies. Pérez was a key player for the Reds dynasty in the 1970s, earning seven All-Star selections and helping his team win multiple World Series championships. He later transitioned to coaching and managing roles with the Reds and Florida Marlins. Pérez was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000.

Martín Dihigo, known as "The Immortal" and "The Maestro," had a distinguished professional baseball career from 1923 to 1936. He played in the Negro leagues and Latin American leagues as a versatile two-way player, excelling as a pitcher and second baseman, but showcasing exceptional skills across all nine positions. Dihigo's talent extended beyond playing, as he also took on managerial roles. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on the sport, earning a reputation as one of the greatest baseball players of his time.

Adolfo Domingo De Guzmán Luque was a pioneering Cuban starting pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1914 to 1935, notably spending 12 seasons with the Cincinnati Reds. He was the first Latin American pitcher in MLB, achieving significant milestones such as winning a World Series in 1919, and leading the majors in wins, shutouts, and ERA. Luque also had a successful career in the Cuban League as a player and manager, winning multiple championships. He was honored with inductions into the Cuban, Cincinnati Reds, and Mexican Baseball Halls of Fame.

Yordenis Ugas Hernández is a Cuban professional boxer who has achieved success in the welterweight division. He held the WBA (Super) welterweight title from 2021 to April 2022 and previously held the WBA (Regular) title. As an amateur, Ugas won a gold medal at the 2005 World Championships and a bronze at the 2008 Olympics. Known by his nickname "54 Milagros," Ugas draws inspiration from his best friend, baseball player Aroldis Chapman, and his mother, Milagros.

Leinier Domínguez Pérez is a prominent Cuban and American chess grandmaster renowned for his exceptional skills in blitz chess. He has clinched the title of Cuban champion five times and was crowned the world champion in blitz chess in 2008. Domínguez has participated in prestigious events such as the FIDE World Chess Championship and the FIDE World Cup multiple times, showcasing his talent and strategic prowess on the international chess stage. His professional career is marked by numerous accomplishments and a strong presence in the global chess community.

Adrián Morejón Garcia is a talented Cuban professional baseball pitcher known for his skills on the mound. He made his highly anticipated MLB debut in 2019, showcasing his strong pitching abilities for the San Diego Padres. Morejón has become a valuable asset for the Padres, demonstrating his versatility and effectiveness as a pitcher. With his promising career trajectory, he continues to impress fans and teammates alike with his performance on the field, solidifying his position as a key player for the team.

Luis Manuel Rodríguez, known as "El Feo," was a Cuban professional boxer who began his career in pre-Castro Havana. He twice defeated future welterweight champion Benny Paret in Cuba and held the WBA, WBC, and lineal welterweight titles in 1963. He also challenged for the WBA and WBC middleweight titles in 1969. After the Cuban Revolution, he continued his career in the United States, based in Miami. Rodriguez defeated notable welterweights like Virgil Akins and Rudell Stitch during his time in the ring.

José Manuel Ribalta is a retired Cuban professional boxer who competed in the heavyweight division from 1982 to 1999. Standing at 6 ft 6 in with an 80-inch reach, he was known for his brave performance against Mike Tyson in 1986. Throughout his career, Ribalta faced numerous notable opponents including Leon Spinks, Frank Bruno, Larry Holmes, Tim Witherspoon, Tony Tubbs, Michael Dokes, James "Bonecrusher" Smith, Vitali Klitschko, Chris Byrd, and Donovan "Razor" Ruddock. Ribalta achieved victories and suffered defeats against some of the best in the heavyweight division.

Frankis Carol Marzo is a highly skilled handball player who competes for both Al Arabi SC and the Qatar national team. He has showcased his talent on the international stage, representing Qatar at prestigious events like the World Men's Handball Championship in 2019 and 2021. In the 2021 championship, he demonstrated his scoring prowess by finishing as the top scorer with an impressive tally of 58 goals. Frankis Carol's professional career is marked by his dedication, skill, and contributions to the sport of handball.

Manuel Márquez Sterling was a prominent Cuban diplomat who also briefly served as the interim President of Cuba. He played a significant role in the Cuban War of Liberation and later represented Cuba in various diplomatic capacities, including as Ambassador to Mexico and the United States. Known for his journalistic background, he was involved in protesting the Platt Amendment and had a distinguished career in diplomatic service. Additionally, he had a notable performance in the Paris 1900 chess tournament, showcasing his intellectual prowess.

Alexis Vila Perdomo is a highly skilled Cuban professional mixed martial artist with an impressive background in wrestling. He is a two-time World Champion and a 1996 Olympic bronze medallist in the Freestyle Light Flyweight category. Vila's expertise and achievements in wrestling have greatly contributed to his success in the world of mixed martial arts. Known for his exceptional grappling skills and competitive spirit, he continues to be a respected figure in the MMA community, showcasing his talent and dedication in various competitions.

Konnan is a prominent figure in the professional wrestling world, known for his contributions as a wrestler, manager, and creative team member. He has wrestled for various promotions in the US and Mexico, holding fifteen title belts across nine promotions. Konnan played a key role in the creation of Lucha Underground and is recognized for his involvement in groups like the nWo, The Filthy Animals, 3 Live Kru, and Latin American Xchange. He has made significant contributions to the wrestling industry both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

Osvaldo Alonso Moreno is a retired Cuban professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder. Defecting from Cuba in 2007 and acquiring U.S. citizenship in 2012, he spent ten years with Seattle Sounders FC. Known for his aggressive and fearless playing style, Alonso was dubbed the "Honey Badger" by Seattle fans. Renowned for his skills in harassing opponents, tackling, and covering the field, he also contributed offensively, making him a constant threat on the field.

Yadisleidy Pedroso is an accomplished Italian hurdler known for her impressive performance at the 2020 Summer Olympics in the 400m hurdles event. With a strong focus on athletics, she has dedicated herself to training and competing at the highest level. Pedroso's career highlights include showcasing her skills on the international stage, where she has proven to be a formidable competitor with a passion for hurdling. Her commitment to excellence and determination to succeed have earned her recognition in the world of track and field.

Mireya Luis Hernández is a renowned Cuban former volleyball player and three-time Olympic gold medalist. She achieved gold medals at the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Olympics as a vital member of the Cuban women's national volleyball team. Serving as the team's captain from the late 1980s until her retirement, Mireya's leadership and skill were instrumental in their success. Her exceptional career in volleyball was further honored with induction into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame in 2004, solidifying her legacy in the sport.

Juan Corzo y Príncipe was a prominent Spanish-Cuban chess master known for his significant contributions to Cuban chess. He emigrated to Cuba in 1887 and quickly rose to prominence, becoming the Champion of the Havana Chess Club in 1898. Despite losing to the legendary José Raúl Capablanca in 1901, Corzo remained a formidable force in Cuban chess. He co-founded the National Chess Federation of Cuba with Capablanca and won the Cuban Chess Championship five times. Corzo's legacy is marked by his dedication to promoting and advancing chess in Cuba.

Joel Casamayor Johnson is a retired professional boxer who competed from 1996 to 2011. He held world championships in two weight classes, claiming the WBA super featherweight title from 2000 to 2002 and the WBC, Ring magazine, and lineal lightweight titles from 2006 to 2008. Casamayor's successful amateur career included winning a gold medal in the bantamweight division at the 1992 Olympics. He made headlines for defecting to the United States on the eve of the 1996 Olympics, showcasing his determination and resilience in the sport.

Ramón Fonst Segundo was a Cuban fencer who achieved great success in the early 20th century. He made history by becoming the first Cuban and Latin American Olympic medalist, winning gold in the Men's épée event at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris. Fonst continued his success by winning multiple gold medals at subsequent Olympics and Central American and Caribbean Games. After retiring from competition, he held leadership roles in Cuban sports organizations, including serving as president of the National Olympic Committee and as an adviser for the Department of Physical Education and Sports until his passing in 1959.

Lou Molinet was a pioneer in American football, making history as the first Cuban and Latin American to play in the National Football League. He showcased his skills as a professional player for the Frankford Yellow Jackets during the 1927 season, leaving a lasting impact on the sport. His presence on the field not only broke barriers but also inspired future generations of Latin American players to pursue their dreams in the NFL.

Sullivan Barrera is a skilled Cuban professional boxer known for his accomplishments both as an amateur and in the world of boxing. He secured the middleweight gold medal at the 2000 AIBA Junior World Championships during his amateur career. Transitioning to the professional ranks, Barrera challenged for the WBA light heavyweight title in 2018, showcasing his determination and skill in the ring. His career is marked by a strong work ethic and a passion for the sport that has earned him recognition among boxing enthusiasts.

Yorman Polas Bartolo is a Cuban-German professional basketball player known for his exceptional defensive skills. He gained German citizenship in 2015 while playing for Gießen 46ers. He has been named the Best Defender of the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) for three consecutive seasons from 2017 to 2021. Bartolo signed with Riesen Ludwigsburg in 2020 and continues to excel in his defensive role on the court. Additionally, he has represented the Cuban national basketball team at the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship, showcasing his talent on an international level.

Manrique Larduet Bicet is a highly accomplished Cuban artistic gymnast, renowned for his impressive achievements on the international stage. He made history by winning Cuba's first World all-around medal at the 2015 World Championships, where he also secured a silver medal in the all-around and a bronze on the horizontal bar. Larduet has further showcased his talent at various competitions, including the Pan American Games and Pan American Championships, where he has clinched multiple titles and medals, solidifying his status as a top gymnast.

María Teresa Mora Iturralde was a Cuban chess master who made significant contributions to the world of chess. She received direct lessons from José Raúl Capablanca, a renowned chess player. Mora was the first woman to win the Cuban Chess Championship in 1922. She also competed in two Women's World Chess Championships, finishing in seventh/eighth place in Buenos Aires in 1939 and 10-11th in Moscow in 1949/50. Mora was awarded the Woman International Master (WIM) title in 1950, becoming the first Latin American woman to achieve this honor.