Stevenson is fine

Ariel B. Coya

RECENTLY there has been speculation that Teófilo Stevenson (Las Tunas, 1952) is not well, that a liver problem had him on the ropes. Being, in fact, as headstrong as ever, he took it upon himself to deny the rumors. As the mythical heavyweight told this reporter at his home in Havana’s Náutico neighborhood, "Stevenson is fine."

"It’s true that I was in hospital for two weeks. I went in for a regular examination and the doctors found some clots in an artery close to my heart which could have become dangerous, if they hadn’t been detected in time.

"So I was hospitalized right away to have them dissolved. But I’m fine now," he explained.

After being released from the Surgical Research Center (CIMEQ) January 27, the three-time Olympic champion (1972, 1976, 1980), who also won the World Championship in 1974, 1978 and 1988, reported that he is carefully following doctors’ orders and is walking regularly, in order to return shortly to his work with the Cuban Boxing Federation.

Admired around the world for his good humor and accomplishments in the ring – winning 301 of his 326 bouts over the course of 20 years – Stevenson wanted to express his gratitude for all the affection and messages he has received from followers and friends, in addition to letting them know there is no need to worry.