Andy Cruz is defying the norm at a time when boxing prospects are typically meticulously cultivated over a dozen fights prior to entering the fight for a title. After an impressive amateur career, the Cuban sensation is now set to make his professional debut in an IBF lightweight title eliminator. This quick rise demonstrates both his extraordinary talent and his unwavering desire to rule the lightweight class.
From Amateur Stardom to Professional Ambitions
Andy Cruz Gómez was born in Matanzas, Cuba, on August 12, 1995, and went on to have one of the most successful amateur boxing careers in history. His achievements include two Pan American Games gold medals, three AIBA World Championship gold medals, and the desired Olympic gold at the Tokyo 2020 Games, where he defeated American sensation Keyshawn Davis in the championship match. With a 135-win amateur record and only nine losses, Cruz’s move to the professional ranks was widely expected.
Cruz debuted professionally under the Matchroom Boxing promotion in July 2023, taking on seasoned veteran Juan Carlos Burgos. In the first of his fight, Cruz won the IBF International lightweight title by dominating Burgos over ten rounds, defying the conventional strategy of easing into the professional arena. This audacious action demonstrated his willingness to advance his career more quickly.
A Trail of Dominance
Cruz’s reputation as a powerful fighter in the lightweight class has only become stronger as a result of his later fights. He demonstrated his strength in December 2023 when he defeated former IBO world champion Jovanni Straffon in the third round. In February 2024, he defeated Brayan Zamarripa by unanimous decision to extend his winning run. In August, he knocked out Antonio Moran in the seventh round. Cruz further solidified his position as a top contender in January 2025 when he defeated Omar Salcido in a unanimous decision with scores of 99-91, 98-92, and 98-92.
The Road to the IBF Title Eliminator
Cruz has risen to the top of the IBF lightweight rankings thanks to his outstanding achievements. In a title eliminator, he will now take against Hironori Mishiro (17–1, 6 KOs) of Japan on June 14, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York. Although Mishiro, a former OPBF super featherweight champion, is a formidable opponent, Cruz’s team is still confidence in his skills.
Cruz’s quick development has excited promoter Eddie Hearn, who said, “We need to get him mandatory, ’cause no one’s gonna fight him.” In order to prepare for a possible world title fight later in the year, Hearn sees the Cruz-Mishiro winner taking on the winner of Raymond Muratella and Zaur Abdullaev’s May 10 IBF interim title fight.
Sacrifices and Determination
Cruz has had to make some personal sacrifices along the way. He left his little son behind when he emigrated from Cuba in 2022 in order to pursue boxing career chances. Cruz said, “It is why I make the sacrifice.” “I know what it was like being in prison when I tried leaving Cuba and was caught. Every fight I feel stronger and better; my skills are tighter.”
Cruz has refined his talents alongside top fighters like Jaron “Boots” Ennis while training in Philadelphia under Derek “Bozy” Ennis’ instruction. He is ready for the obstacles that lie ahead, particularly the impending eliminator matchup with Mishiro, thanks to this demanding training environment.
Looking Ahead
The boxing community eagerly awaits Cruz’s sixth professional fight preparation. In addition to guaranteeing a crack at the championship, defeating Mishiro would solidify Cruz’s standing as one of the sport’s most exciting talents. With his blend of technical prowess, speed, and determination, Andy Cruz is poised to make a lasting impact on the lightweight division.
Cruz’s journey demonstrates the strength of skill, perseverance, and unwavering ambition in an era where quick ascents are uncommon. If he keeps going in this direction, a new lightweight champion might soon be crowned in the boxing world.