Via Vince D’Writer: In the co-match of the event Alycia Baumgardner vs. Christina Linardatou 2, Cuba’s 2020 Olympic lightweight gold medalist Andy Cruz made his professional boxing debut, defeating Juan Carlos Burgos (35-8-3, 21 KOs) by unanimous decision and won the vacant International IBF title.
Andy Cruz’s hype is based on the fact that he’s a three-time world amateur champion, and it also has to do with his amateur success against Keyshawn Davis, when he beat Davis four times, including including their Olympic gold medal match in August 2021.
Due to all of his impressive amateur accolades, Cruz’s professional debut was a highly anticipated event. The 27-year-old is expected to advance quickly, and that is evident in his first professional match scheduled in ten innings against a seasoned veteran.
In the first half of the round, Andy Cruz looked calm as he calmly executed the stab. Cruz increased his offensive output in the second round as he continued to use his right hand and stab at himself.
He decided to set up his inside game in the third and fourth innings as he stood in the pocket, and was able to effectively land his right arm multiple times into Burgos’ head and torso. Cruz did an excellent job in regards to executing his strike and then moving out of range.
He was very aggressive in the 7th half as he continued his impressive offensive display by pressing forward and hitting Burgos with multiple combinations. Later in the same round, he landed with a big right-hander, and then he continued to connect with a solid top lane backstroke.
In the eighth round of the round, Cruz remained sharp and precise in attack while his opponent Juan Carlos Burgos seemed hesitant to launch his shots for fear of being countered.
Over the course of ten rounds, Cruz displayed extraordinary poise, elusive ability, sideways movement, physical strength, offensive and defensive skills.
At half-time, Andy Cruz (1-0) claimed his first professional win with scores (100-90), (100-90) and (98-92).
In his post-match interview, Cruz spoke of his excitement at finally getting into his first professional game, and he also talked about how pleased he was with the performance. his debut performance.
“I am absolutely delighted. That was the best thing that could happen to me. This is my first step in the pro game. Everyone knows that I am up against a really experienced boxer. A boxer has had more than 35 fights so it won’t be easy. It’s about using my experience and good preparation and talent, and that’s what got me through tonight.”
When asked about the difference between the amateur game and the professional game, Cruz pointed out how demanding it is to fight for so many innings and he also pointed to the smaller sized gloves. Cruz also talked about the next step in his journey to becoming a professional boxer.
“So now it’s about continuing to grow, continuing to prepare well. I want to be the best at boxing, and now it’s time to move on, learn and face the best in the sport.”
