The 1970’s was the era of Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier and George Foreman, but there was one decorated heavyweight who never got a chance to face these legends and stake his claim as an all-time great. Cuban boxer Teofilo Stevenson won three straight Olympic gold medals (1972 Munich, ’76 Montreal and ’80 Moscow) in the heavyweight division and countless other international tournaments as an amateur. However, because he did not turn professional, we’re left to wonder what might have been. Many boxing pundits argue that the 6’ 5” behemoth with an overpowering right could have beat anyone including Ali.

After he won his second gold in Montreal, Stevenson was offered millions of dollars by American fight promoters to go pro and challenge “The Greatest” for the World Heavyweight crown. Instead, this inspirational patriot declined a life-changing opportunity saying, "What is one million dollars compared to the love of eight million Cubans?" When he won his third gold medal at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, the Latin American hero nicknamed Pirolo became just the second boxer ever to do so. He finished his sensational career with three World Championship gold medals (1974 Havana, 1978 Belgrade & 1986 Reno) and two Pan-American Games golds (1975 Mexico & 1979 San Juan) as well. Pure, utter dominance.

Presented here is an amazing piece of boxing history: Teofilo Stevenson’s very own fight worn Cuba jersey. Made by Adidas and tagged inside the collar (size L), the blue mesh tank has horizontal red and white knit stripes on the upper torso to account for all the colors of the Cuban flag. The arm openings are lined in blue. On the reverse, “CUBA” is pressed on in blue suede lettering. “T. STEVENSON” appears in a similar format, although the suede has worn off from so much use. This jersey exhibits heavy wear with sweat-staining and significant pilling. On left rear shoulder strap, the blue lining has begun to separate a bit. Other than that, there are no condition issues.

The event or events in which this jersey was worn are unknown. Images of Cuban athletes from international competitions are very sparse. Our consignor procured this jersey directly from Stevenson's widow in Havana, Cuba, not long after Teofilo passed away in 2012. Ideal provenance for such an important item. (His robe is also listed in Lot 394 from the same source.)