Santo Domingo. The renowned ex-karateka Rubel Salomón, the first Dominican to be crowned karate champion in the Pan American Games, is preparing to enter the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025. This recognition celebrates one of the brightest careers in national sports history. Originally from Samaná, Salomón stood out as a prominent figure in Dominican karate. Throughout his career, he won a total of 68 international medals, including medals in World, Pan American, Ibero-American, and Central American championships. In addition, he accumulated more than 80 medals in his national participations.
His greatest achievement was at the 2003 Santo Domingo Pan American Games, where he won the championship, becoming the first Dominican to achieve it in the Olympic Cycle. This victory was the fourth individual medal for the country in the history of the continental competition.
Salomón, who began his karate journey in 1993 under the tutelage of Crucito Bueno and Juan Manuel López, was presented as the tenth athlete to be immortalized this year. The 59th ceremony of the Hall of Fame will take place on Sunday, November 16th, in the auditorium of the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center, with Manuel Estrella as honorary president.Highlighted Achievements
- Nine undefeated gold medals in Central American and Caribbean Karate Championships.
- Individual and team champion at the Central American and Caribbean Games San Salvador 2002.
- Silver and bronze medalist at the Cartagena 2006 and Mayagüez 2010 Games.
- Winner of the world gold in Wado Ryu of Portugal 2009, in the open category.
