Many of the Olympic events in Brazil are wrapping up, and athletes are heading back home. Nico Hernandez, a light flyweight boxer from Wichita, is set to receive a hero’s welcome from local officials.
Hernandez began the games as an unknown, just a boxer who made money changing oil at his father’s mechanic shop. Now, he’s a local sensation. Many in Wichita have been closely watching his success in the Rio Olympics.
He had a major upset victory against second-seeded Russian Vasilii Egorov, who was the favorite to win the silver medal.
Hernandez struggled in the first round of that bout, but ignited a comeback to win the next two. He would eventually capture the bronze medal—and the attention of boxing enthusiasts everywhere.
Hernandez is the first male boxer to win an Olympic medal for the United States since 2008.
The City of Wichita is hosting a welcome-home party at Eisenhower National Airport on Aug. 23 at 10:35 a.m.
A parade is being held on Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. and will travel from 21st and Broadway to 13th and Waco. A celebration at North High School will be held at 11 a.m.
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