Luis Yanez Loses Appeal to Remain on Olympic Boxing Team

Image details: XV Pan American Games – Day 14 served by picapp.com

I love the Olympics so much that boycotts, political posturing, blood doping, and corrupt judges have never been able to dampen my spirits and love for the global competition. But today’s news, as reported by the Dallas Morning News, of American light flyweight Luis Yanez’ official denial to return to the U.S. Boxing Team angers me so much that my love has begun to fade.

The Olympic Games should be about the athletes, not their vindictive, control freak coaches. Yanez earned his chance at the American dream and it should not be taken away because of he did not adhere to U.S. Boxing’s Draconian residence program and stone age coaching methods. Methods that fightbeat.com revealed to be effectively removing the Boxing team members’ spontaneity, individuality, marketability and athleticism.

Yanez’ Attorney has stated that their next step could be a federal injunction to get Luis back on the team. But maybe it’s best if Yanez just gets off this sinking ship and embarks on what promises to be a successful professional career.