Lima 2019: Abel Herrera returned to the fight after three years in search of the gold.

The world seemed to collapse for Abel Herrera in mid-2015. A serious mistake forced him to step away from the wrestling mat where he achieved so much joy for Peru: he received a four-year suspension after testing positive in a doping control.

But that horror movie lasted only two months for 'Roca'. That's when he decided to rise and train harder than ever before. Until this year he was able to reduce his sanction and became eligible to seek his revenge in the Lima 2019 Pan American Games.

What was the first thing you thought when you received the suspension?
I felt extremely sad and confused. I didn't know what to do, wrestling has always been the passion of my life and I had to give it up. What helped me move forward is the people who never stopped believing in me.

At that moment, you decided to switch from the mat to the MMA cage.
Shortly after the news, I received an invitation from Iván 'Pitbull' Iberico to train MMA. He told me that I had a lot to give in that sport and it seemed like a good option while I resolved the suspension. I'm very grateful to him for that opportunity.

If you didn't do bad in MMA, why did you decide to return to Olympic wrestling?
Because I never stopped thinking about my discipline. As soon as my sanction was reduced to three years, I didn't think twice before competing again.

And in your first tournament, you earned the ticket to Lima 2019.
It was difficult for me to compete in the Pan American Wrestling Championship due to the lack of rhythm. I felt like a rookie. But with each combat, I gained more confidence, until I won the silver medal.

Now, is your only goal the gold medal?
For the Pan American Games, I only prepared for two months and finished second. I think, even though it won't be easy, by preparing with more anticipation, I can recover the level I once had. I need to win a medal in Lima 2019, it's my personal conviction. With personal planning and preparation, I can achieve it.

Now you participate in seminars to prevent the use of prohibited substances.
Yes, I think it's important to raise awareness among young people about the dangers that steroid use and other types of substances can imply.

What advice would you give Paolo Guerrero in this difficult moment?
To have patience and a lot of faith. Time is wise and heals everything. If he made any mistakes, it's time for him to lift his head. He knows that all of Peru loves him and I'm sure he will come back stronger.