After recently receiving two Gold Medals, one from the Spanish Federation of Olympic Wrestling and Other Disciplines and another from the Government of the Canary Islands, Juan Espino, known as 'El Guapo', is involved in various projects. The athlete, a father for a few months, serves as the national coach for the wrestling team and also works as a commentator for Canarian wrestling, without neglecting his personal life.
In an interview, Espino describes his post-retirement life as very active. He balances raising his son with real estate projects and his work with the Spanish wrestling team, a discipline that has given him a lot. Additionally, he collaborates with 'Terrero y Gloria', seeking to reciprocate the support received for Canarian wrestling and the national team. He expresses gratitude for organizing trips and constantly seeking new ideas and learning.
“"It is the highest recognition a federation can give, and for me, receiving it is an immense pride. [...] that two years after retiring, they put me here and tell me they are proud of me, recognize me, and give me an award... I feel very grateful because at some points in my life I thought no one was a prophet in their own land, and to be valued this way makes you feel very happy and content. It's been two medals in one week and I haven't taken any blows for it (laughs). That's how it feels good to achieve titles and medals."
Espino highlights the significance of these awards, especially the affection received in his homeland, Gran Canaria, and on other islands like Tenerife, Lanzarote, and La Palma. He feels that his passion for wrestling, along with Canarian values and those of Canarian wrestling, have been fundamental to his career and connection with the public.
As national coach, Espino embraces the challenge with great responsibility, prioritizing the seriousness and international medal potential of the athletes he selects. He acknowledges that his demanding nature might draw criticism but justifies it by his own self-imposed standards during his career.
Despite the physical pain he endures, Espino admits he sometimes misses competing but recalls the reasons for his retirement. He values the importance of closing cycles and believes he will not compete again, neither in the UFC nor in Canarian wrestling, out of respect for the sport and his legacy, avoiding an unnecessary extension of his career.
Regarding the evolution of Canarian wrestling, Espino anticipates significant news about doping controls that could impact the discipline. While acknowledging the sport's growth and its ability to attract crowds, he deems controls necessary for long-term strengthening.
On the topic of the UFC, Espino expresses reservations, calling it a 'circus' and criticizing the excessive 'trash talking', particularly its influence on young people. Although he has a good relationship with fighters like Joel Álvarez, he prefers to distance himself from the current image of MMA, differentiating it from the spectacle of professional wrestling.
In his role as commentator for RTVC's 'Terrero y Gloria', Espino values teamwork and his freedom to express opinions and foster debate, always aiming to contribute and improve the discipline. He emphasizes the importance of verifying information and seeking solutions to the sport's challenges.
The athlete also reveals an important project related to wrestling in the Canary Islands, which he hopes will mark a turning point internationally. Additionally, he maintains contact with friends in various parts of the world, including Tahiti, Russia, Miami, and Australia.
Recently, Espino premiered a documentary on Televisión Canaria, described as his 'last fight' in a way and an incredible recognition. The project featured various personalities from the music and sports world, such as Quevedo, Cruz Cafuné, Maikel Delacalle, Santi Aldama, and Pollito de la Frontera, among others, creating an event that many compared to an 'All Star'.
