Promoter Eddie Hearn’s Excitement for Andy Cruz
Promoter Eddie Hearn is brimming with anticipation as he prepares for his fighter, Andy Cruz, to face off against the reigning IBF lightweight champion, Raymond Muratalla, on January 24, 2026, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The event, which will be broadcast live on DAZN, marks a significant milestone in Cruz’s professional career. Hearn, known for his keen eye for talent, sees this bout as an opportunity to validate his decision to sign Cruz, a choice that many other promoters overlooked. Cruz, a Cuban talent, captured the gold medal at the 2020 Olympics, a feat that underscores his exceptional skills and potential. Hearn is confident that Cruz will not only challenge Muratalla but also establish himself as a formidable force in the lightweight division.
Cruz’s Gold Medal Pedigree
Cruz’s journey to the professional ring is nothing short of remarkable. His gold medal at the 2020 Olympics is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. The amateur boxing world recognizes him as one of the most accomplished athletes, boasting a stellar 135-9 record. This impressive pedigree sets him apart from many of his contemporaries, including top names like Shakur Stevenson, Keyshawn Davis, and Geronta Davis, who, despite their success, did not achieve the same level of accolades. Cruz’s Olympic gold is a clear indicator of his potential to excel in professional boxing, and Hearn’s decision to sign him was a strategic move to capitalize on this untapped talent.
Avoided Since Day One
Since turning professional in 2023, Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) has faced significant challenges in securing high-profile bouts. Despite his superior amateur credentials, he has been largely avoided by fighters and their management. Cruz’s inability to land fights against top contenders like Stevenson, Davis, and Geronta Davis has forced him to work in relative obscurity. This situation is a testament to the competitive nature of the lightweight division, where established names often prefer to avoid potential upsets. However, Cruz has used this time to refine his skills and build a solid professional record, positioning himself as a serious contender.
The Unlikely Champion
Raymond Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) finds himself in an interesting position. Recently elevated to IBF lightweight champion after Vasily Lomachenko’s retirement, Muratalla is seen by many fans as an unlucky champion. He didn’t have the chance to defend his title in a voluntary bout before the IBF ordered him to face Cruz. Muratalla’s path to the championship has been marked by consistency and power, with 17 knockouts in 23 fights. However, his career has not included matchups against opponents of Cruz’s caliber. The closest Muratalla has come to facing a talent like Cruz was his bout against Tevin Farmer in 2024, but even Farmer does not match Cruz’s level of amateur success. Muratalla’s most recent victory was a 12-round unanimous decision over Zaur Abdullaev on May 10, 2025, which earned him the IBF interim lightweight title.
Why Hearn Is Confident
Hearn’s confidence in Cruz is rooted in the fighter’s comprehensive skill set and proven track record. “Raymond is a fantastic fighter and a worthy World champion, but I believe he’s coming up against a man that is going to be very difficult to beat, not just on January 24, but beyond for many a year,” Hearn stated. Cruz has demonstrated a well-rounded game, combining speed, power, and strategic thinking, all of which are essential in high-stakes bouts. Hearn believes that these qualities, coupled with Cruz’s amateur success, will enable him to convert his potential into a successful professional career. The promoter sees this fight as a platform for Cruz to showcase his abilities and make a strong statement in the lightweight division.
Looking Forward to the Big Night
The upcoming bout between Cruz and Muratalla is shaping up to be a highly anticipated event. Fans and experts alike are eager to see how Cruz, the Olympic gold medalist with a flawless professional record, will fare against Muratalla, the newly crowned champion. The Fontainebleau Las Vegas, a venue known for hosting major boxing events, will provide an ideal setting for this clash of titans. As the date approaches, both fighters will be intensifying their training, knowing that the stakes are incredibly high. For Cruz, this fight represents a chance to validate Hearn’s faith in him and to establish himself as a future champion. For Muratalla, it is an opportunity to solidify his claim to the IBF lightweight title. Regardless of the outcome, the boxing world will be watching closely, and the bout promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
