Andy Cruz says his disputed defeat to Raymond Muratalla has increased his motivation as he prepares to face Abraham Montoya in Carson, California.
Cruz suffered the first loss of his professional career in January, dropping a competitive majority decision to Muratalla in an IBF lightweight title fight. Although many observers believed the Cuban had done enough to win, he has chosen to focus on the lessons from the setback.
“What happened in my last fight was gasoline for me,” Cruz said. “It showed me I’m ready to compete at this level.”
The 2020 Olympic gold medalist was initially scheduled to face Albert Bell in an IBF eliminator, but Bell withdrew after accepting a late opportunity against Abdullah Mason.
Cruz now meets Montoya, who enters after upsetting Antonio Perez in April. The 30-year-old believes a convincing victory can quickly return him to the lightweight title picture.
Image Credit: DAZN