Cuban wrestler Mijain López Núñez announced his retirement following the 130-kilogram Greco-Roman wrestling final at the Paris Olympics, concluding his illustrious career as a wrestling icon and leaving a profound impact on his competitor.
At 41 years old, López Núñez secured a 6-0 victory over Chilean wrestler Yasmani Acosta Fernández, marking his fifth consecutive gold medal. This remarkable achievement makes him the first Olympic athlete to win gold in five consecutive Games and the first wrestler to achieve five Olympic gold medals.
Acosta Fernández expressed his admiration, stating that competing against López Núñez was a privilege and referred to him as “a legend in the sport.”
After the match, López Núñez symbolically retired by removing his shoes and placing them at the center of the mat, marking the end of his wrestling journey.
“It was a tough moment for me,” López Núñez said. “I turned in what we call ‘our weaponry.’ When one turns in their wrestling shoes, they are leaving behind a journey where from a young age they have carried out that work.”
Reflecting on his career, López Núñez believes he has paved a significant path for future generations of young Cubans.
Acosta Fernández, who is from Cuba but now represents Chile, acknowledged López Núñez as a source of inspiration, declaring himself a fan of the legendary wrestler. He also shared that López Núñez offered him advice right before their match.
Acosta Fernández made history as the first Chilean to win a medal in wrestling.