Erislandy Alvarez is one of Cuba's big hopes in both amateur and professional boxing.

The hugely talented fighter, a reigning Olympic champion and World Championship gold medalist, delighted his country earlier this year as part of the first professional event on Cuban shores in over 60 years.

"I am very proud to have been part of this event in April - a huge event nationwide," Alvarez (5-0, 2 KOs) told The Ring through a translator. "It shows Cuba is also developing in the field of sports, that we can finally compete with the best professional boxers.

"AGON Sports has put together a mega event, attracting worldwide attention."

This time around, the 25-year-old will take on Rogelio Jimenez in a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight contest on Saturday, at the Hotel Melia International, Varadero, available to watch on their YouTube channel.

"My opponent is much more experienced than me in professional boxing," noted Alvarez. "Mexicans are known for their aggressive boxing style. I am well prepared and promise a real battle."

Alvarez isn't content to rest on his laurels and has plenty more to achieve.

"I want to go down in boxing history," he said. "The Olympic gold medal is my greatest achievement so far, my childhood dream come true. [I want to] win multiple gold medals at the Olympics."

"Now, I have other dreams and want to become a professional world champion. With Ingo Volckmann, I have the best possible opportunities. He believes in the Cuban boxing school, I will not disappoint him.

"I am still young and think that I will compete in the important major tournaments, such as the Olympics and World Championships. I will become a professional world champion—that is very clear to me."

Volckmann of AGON Sports is clear on his vision, not just for Alvarez, but also boxing in the talent-rich country.

"We are proud to return to Cuba, and this is just the beginning of our events here," he said. "Cuba is a country full of exceptional talent, passion and a true boxing culture.

"We don't just want to host events here; we want to continue making history. Our goal is clear: To bring a world championship to Cuba. The boxers here are strong, the Cuban fans are passionate and love this sport. Cuba deserves a world championship fight on home soil, we will do everything we can to make that happen."

Jimenez (14-2-1, 9 KOs) turned professional in 2019. After eight wins, he lost for the first time in a 10-round split decision against journeyman Carlos Reyes in December 2022.

He returned to the win column before being held to a 10-round draw with Jimerr Espinosa, before an eight-round points loss against Diego Torres in April. The 25-year-old returned to winning ways over the summer, setting him up for this challenge.