ARMANDO, a former member of the Cuban national boxing team, has made a name for himself as a coach in China despite his limited proficiency in the Chinese language. With several decades of experience as a boxer and coach, Armando’s trainees have achieved gold medals in world championships. Fascinated by Chinese culture and kung fu movies that starred Bruce Lee, Armando, now 48, had hoped to visit China since young. A chance encounter with a Chinese boxing coach at a competition in Cuba led Armando to China. He started his coaching career in 2016, leaving a mark across Shandong, Chongqing, and Heilongjiang. “Cuba has a rich boxing culture and history, and I wish to bring Cuban boxing techniques to China,” said Armando. He has successfully mentored numerous boxers, some of whom have clinched titles in national competitions. Although Armando frequently changes his training locations, he has students from various regions who follow him wherever he goes. “His technique is great, and his patience is commendable,” said Xu Longfei, head of Longfei Boxing Club in Binzhou City, Shandong Province. Xu journeyed thousands of miles to Harbin, aspiring to improve his boxing and coaching skills under Armando’s training. Despite Armando’s inadequate Chinese proficiency, the Cuban teaches through demonstration and actual combat, yielding fruitful results. Armando has patented a uniquely designed punching bag outfitted with boxing gloves. Unlike standard punching bags, his invention sways from side to side using pulleys, simulating an authentic combat experience during training. “Boxing serves as a bridge of communication. Through my training, many individuals have not only gained insights into Cuban boxing but also Cuban culture,” said Armando, who is planning his own boxing gym in Harbin. “Chinese fighters are exceptionally agile and courageous. The Chinese people have helped me a lot. I plan to make videos of my Chinese friends and community and post them on social media,” he added. Cuba’s climate is warm, yet Armando loves Harbin’s winter. “My first encounter with snow was in Harbin, and the food and architecture here have captivated me,” Armando noted. His wife Dariuska, a former Cuban track cyclist, also relocated to China to support his career. “I’ve invited more Cuban coaches over to China to teach boxing,” Armando said. “Armando is kind-hearted and humble, but he dreams big,” commented Zhang Hongchi, chairman of Heilongjiang Huanlong Sports Culture Development Co., Ltd. Zhang works with Armando to introduce Cuban boxing techniques to Chinese fans. (Xinhua) | 