As far as expectations and anticipation for professional debuts are concerned, they don’t get much higher than Andy Cruz.
Hardcore boxing fans will be watching Cruz with keen interest to see if the decorated amateur can make a successful transition to the professional ranks.
The Cuban won the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, as well as golds as the 2015 and 2019 Pan-American Games and the 2017, 2019 and 2021 AIBA World Championships.
During that period, Cruz developed a rivalry with American lightweight, Keyshawn Davis, who is now an 8-0 professional after debuting in 2021.
Cruz defeated Davis in three major amateur finals and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, seems keen for the pair to meet again and even suggested that it could be the 27-year-old’s debut fight.
However, Cruz will not fight Davis on his first outing as a pro, the 140-9 amateur will instead face Juan Carlos Burgos, who has twice challenged for a world title, at featherweight and super-featherweight.
Ahead of his first appearance on the big stage, Matchroom Boxing released a clip of their new signing showing off his blistering hand speed.
Andy Cruz showing off his hand speed on the pads in training for his pro debut on July 15th…
[🎥 @MatchroomBoxing] pic.twitter.com/HD3vv0rO5x
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) May 23, 2023
Hearn was full of praise when announcing the new addiction to his stable, saying he was ‘the best talent he had ever seen’.
“Andy is one of the most sought-after fighters to make the switch to the pro code, and we are honoured to be trusted with the career of such a talented man.
This is one of the greatest signings I’ve ever made. I said to him tonight, ‘In 30 years of watching boxing, you are the best talent I have ever seen.’”
The card also features an all-American bout between Richardson Hitchins and Montana Love. The event will be available to stream live on DAZN.