Street sweeper represents Argentina in international boxing championships
When the fight ended, emotions ran through me. I could barely believe where I stood. Leftover adrenaline pumped through my body. My muscles felt tired, and the sweat ran down my forehead. Suddenly, I could no longer contain my emotions. I broke down in tears, thinking of all the effort it took to get there.
- 2 years ago
October 23, 2022
Miguel Acosta, a street sweeper in Argentina, fights at the IBO Championships in France | Photo published with permission courtesy of Courrier Picard
VILLA GOBERNADOR GÁLVEZ, Santa Fe, Argentina – I work as a municipal employee in my city – cleaning, sweeping, and organizing logistics for craft fairs in the square. When I’m not working for the city, I compete as an international boxer.
It all started at 15 years old. Tired of being overweight for many years, I felt unhappy and needed to be physically active. I played soccer for my father who served as president of the children’s soccer club. While I enjoyed being around family and friends, and wearing the number 10 on my shirt, soccer did not thrill me. I preferred contact sports.
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With no way to practice boxing, I began roaming the streets looking for a brawl. I realized I had a problem. When a boxing teacher emerged, I looked to him for guidance. Suddenly, I felt empowered by my body’s movements and channeled all my energy into training.
I put in many days of hard work and practice. Eventually, I received great news. I was selected to fight internationally. I kept the announcement secret, waiting until Father’s Day so I could surprise my dad. We dreamed of this long-awaited news but barely believed it was possible. When I finally told him, my happiness erupted, and his eyes glowed with pride.
Street sweeper represents his country at the boxing championships in Europe
I arrived in France and prepared myself, remaining focused. The next day we had weigh-ins, then the day of the fight. I would leave for home on the fourth day. It felt like time flew by. I only wish I gave myself more time in France. I did not realize the magnitude of the opportunity to compete for the IBO world title.
When the fight ended, emotions ran through me. I could barely believe where I stood. Leftover adrenaline pumped through my body. My muscles felt tired, and the sweat ran down my forehead. Suddenly, I could no longer contain my emotions. I broke down in tears, thinking of all the effort it took to get there.
I visualized my family, especially my father, and my time on the streets looking for something I loved. I thought of all those years being overweight, seeing the challenges in my life as giants looming over me.
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Back in the city of Villa Gobernador Gálvez, I return to sweeping services. Up before dawn, the sunrise colors begin to face. I face six to eight hours of hard work, hustling around the square. Some days, I work three shifts, but I always manage to train. I find the time for my job and my passion.
I dream of moving more into fighting and returning to Europe. I long for the emotion of representing my country again. Yet, I remain grateful to all the people who have helped me so far.
