Of all of the fighters within the division. Muratalla has to defend against one of the talented ones. Despite being the champion, Cruz is the betting favorite. The rationale for that’s the flexibility the Cuba-born Andy has shown during his two-year pro profession. His skills, defensive ability, and reflexes set him aside from the others.
Interestingly, Andy hasn’t received as much attention from fans as other lightweights, like Shakur Stevenson and Lamont Roach. The rationale for that’s that he doesn’t speak English, has no presence on social media, and isn’t a giant talker like those two.
Cruz has these benefits over Muratalla:
- Speed,
- Defensive
- Reflexes
- Experience – at amateur level
“I see Andy winning. I see Andy frustrating him and winning on points,” said Kim Amoussa to YSM Sports Media, predicting a win for Andy Cruz vs. Raymond Muratalla. “He’s going to make him miss and make him pay. That’s going to empty your energy along the way in which,” said Kim about Andy.
Cruz vs. Muratalla has gone under the radar with fans because neither fighter is a giant talker. The promotion of the event by Matchroom and Top Rank hasn’t been as heavy as for a fight scheduled per week later. Cruz-Muratalla is a fight that hardcore boxing fans are aware of, but won’t receive as much attention.
“He’s [Muratalla] an aggressive fighter, and that’s a giant a part of Andy’s game. He can pressure you to make you make mistakes,” said Amoussa about Cruz. “I’m greater than him, but he can pressure me when he desires to. He throws so many punches. like fast punches, and end with a tough punch.”
Muratalla-Cruz will likely be streamed live to tell the tale DAZN on January 24, 2026. The event will likely be held on the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. The undercard remains to be be chosen.