‘He’ll Get There for Sure’: Shakur Stevenson Tips Fellow Lightweight Fighter to Reach the Top

On the undercard of Terence Crawford defeating Uzbek fighter Israil Madrimov at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, we saw the talented Cuban fighter Andy Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs) extend his 100% professional record, as he stopped Antonio Moran in round seven. It was an impressive performance by the 2020 gold medallist who took a heavy shot from Moran, to remain calm, sit down on his punches and take Moran out. It was only the 2nd time the tough Mexican had been stopped, making it difficult to not be impressed by the 4-0 lightweight. Shakur Stevenson was ringside and reflected on the performance of Cruz, and spoke about his potential.

Andy Cruz Defeats Antonio Moran by Stoppage

Shakur Stevenson Impressed by Andy Cruz

The win by Cruz against Moran ensured the talented Cuban retained his IBF International title. The 28-year-old is rising the lightweight ranks in an impressive style, and being praised by a current world lightweight champion such as Stevenson is a glowing reference for the 28-year-old Olympic gold medal winner from the 2020 games.

Cruz did seem to gesture towards Stevenson that he wished to fight him, and the two could seemingly collide in the future. When speaking to DAZN at ringside after the fight, Shakur spoke on Cruz’s performance: “Great performance, he was sharp. Good defensively. Once the guy got tired, he got him out of there.”

When asked about the title chances of the Cuban, Stevenson said: “Great performance, he was sharp. Good defensively. Once the guy got tired, he got him out of there.”

The Future for Cruz

Anyone who has watched Cruz will likely testify what a phenomenal talent he is. His exceptional amateur pedigree ensures he can fight on the outside, but what’s impressed the most since he turned pro is his ability to sit down on his punches and hurt his opponents.