Javier Ernesto Martín Gutiérrez

Javier Ernesto Martín Gutiérrez, known in the fight world as "Spiderman," is a Cuban mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and champion of the Cuban Fighting League in the 135-pound division. He is also a winner of tournaments organized by Cuba's INDER sports institute and one of the most recognized MMA athletes in the country.

A native of Marianao, Havana, Martín Gutiérrez built his career in combat sports from an early age and established himself as one of the top fighters in his weight class in Cuba. He was 34 years old at the time of his arrest.

In April 2026 he gained international attention after staging a prolonged public protest from the balcony of his home in Havana, denouncing Cuba's social crisis — including the economic crisis, shortages, youth drug consumption, and street violence. On April 24, 2026, after more than eight days of peaceful solo protest, he was detained by State Security agents in the Marianao municipality. Witnesses reported he was beaten and transported in an unmarked vehicle to Villa Marista headquarters. His case generated widespread international attention.