If there was ever a story to pump us up right before we’re about to venture into a Tianguis for lunch, it’s the story about Henry Cejudo who defeated Japan’s Tomohiro Matsunaga in the 55-kilogram (121 pounds) final earlier this morning in what Kevin Baxter from the LA Times called a “stunning win.” The Los Angeles-born Cejudo barely made it out of his Olympic trials, and trailed for the three matches he participated in before the final, but perseverance and a lot of strength paid off.

Although he and Matsunaga were tied, 2-2, after the first period, Cejudo was declared the winner because he had the highest-scoring move, a two-point takedown. Cejudo then jumped to a 3-0 lead early in the second period to clinch the match. “This is cool. Coming out of a Mexican American background, it feels good to represent the U.S.,” said Cejudo, who was born in Los Angeles. “Not too many Mexicans get the chance to do that.”

Fist-bump to the max, homeboy! Cejudo had previously placed 31st in last year’s World Championships, so you can imagine the tension his family and friends felt each and every time Cejudo progressed closer and closer to the medal matches.

Missing, however, was Cejudo’s mother, the person he has repeatedly said is most responsible for his success.

“We always moved forward. We always moved forward. My mom always taught us to suck it up and whatever you want to do, you can do,” Cejudo said. “And that’s what I did.”

There were conflicting stories as to why his mother remained in Colorado. According to one explanation she had passport problems while Cejudo said she stayed home to take care of her grandchildren.

But Gloria said her mother, who had a ticket, didn’t come because she was too nervous to watch her son compete in the Olympic Games.

“At the Olympic trials in Las Vegas, she couldn’t take it,” said Gloria, who added that her mother, despite being half a world away, spent much of the last day vomiting because of nerves.

We hope you can rest easy knowing your son is now an Olympic Champion! And Henry, if you want to talk to us about your amazing experience, rock us an email at tips[at]machochip[dot]com. Once again, congrats on your amazing feat!

Henry Cejudo captures gold and a piece of the American dream [LA Times]
Image [Getty]