‘Next Guy’s Going To Be Top 15 Guy ’- Andy Cruz Destined for Top

On July 15, Andy Cruz made his professional debut for Matchroom boxing against the experienced Juan Carlos Burgos. The fight took place on the undercard of Alycia Baumgardner vs. Christina Linardatou at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan.

Andy Cruz Impresses Against Juan Carlos Burgos

What a future Andy Cruz has ahead of him 🙌 pic.twitter.com/4ZPdVWlyLh

— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 17, 2023

Cruz Destined for the Top

Cruz went into his professional debut with plenty of eyes on him. The Cuban lightweight is one of the most decorated amateurs of all time having amassed a record of 140-9. When he signed for Matchroom, promoter Eddie Hearn was full of excitement regarding his newest recruit. “One day this may be our greatest ever signing, I would bet on Andy to beat any 135lber on the planet now!” Cruz entered the ring in Detroit and we were not left disappointed.

Also Read: 5 Underrated Lightweights to Watch Out for in 2023

Cruz was joined by his trainer Bozy Ennis and looked like a class act in the ring. He dominated the fight throughout, winning via judge’s scores of 100-90, 100-90 and 98-92. Cruz showed no nerves and settled down quickly, throwing double jabs and right-hand combinations, which seemed to be landing at will. His power seemed to hurt Burgos on more than one occasion. His ring IQ in his first fight was staggering, knowing when to attack, and when to wait. 

What’s Next for Andy Cruz?

Matchroom clearly have high hopes for Cruz, as does his trainer Ennis, who was full of praise for his fighter. “He’s only been with me two months, and he’s picked up the defence and everything,” Ennis said. Cruz has this wonderful ability to slip punches with ease and counter-punch with accuracy. It appears from his debut that he will be bringing power punching into his arsenal of skills, which will make him an even more formidable opponent.

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When asked about what was next for Cruz, Hearn said. “The next guy’s going to be a top 15 guy in the world and he’s going to be ready,” Hearn said of Cruz. “He’s gonna have four, five fights and he’s gonna end up fighting for the world championship. He’s an unbelievable talent.”

It is hard not to share Hearn’s excitement over Cruz. He is a phenomenal talent – comfortable fighting on the inside or outside. Keyshawn Davis has been mentioned as a possible opponent – however, will Davis want to fight the Cuban as he lost three times to Cruz in the amateurs? Jeremia Nakathila could be a tough opponent for Cruz as he went the distance with Shakur Stevenson. Another possible opponent for Cruz could be Francesco Patera, who will take on Davis on July 22. It remains to be seen what is in store for Cruz, but the Cuban lightweight seemingly has all the attributes to reach the top.