Andy CruzAdvances to Potential Muratalla Rematch After Decisive Carson Eliminator

Andy Cruz is one victory away from another shot at the IBF lightweight title.

Journalist Carlos Linares reports that Cruz will face unbeaten contender Albert Bell on July 18 in Carson, California, in an IBF lightweight final eliminator. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for the August 1 IBF lightweight title fight between champion Raymond Muratalla and former two‑division champion Robson Conceição.

Cruz (6-1, 3 KOs) still has unfinished business after dropping a 12-round majority decision to Muratalla on January 24. The official scores were 118-110 from Max DeLuca, 116-112 from Steve Weisfeld, and 114-114 on the third card.

The wide margins on two scorecards sparked debate, with observers viewing the bout as closer than the official verdict suggested. Cruz effectively used sharp counter‑punching and movement against Muratalla’s pressure, and some observers believed he deserved at least a draw.

Before a rematch can be arranged, Cruz must first defeat Bell (28-0, 9 KOs), an unbeaten contender rising near the top of the IBF rankings. Bell earned the opportunity, while Cruz has rapidly climbed the rankings following a decorated amateur career that included Olympic gold.

With Muratalla preparing to defend his title against Conceição, the IBF lightweight division is shaping up, and Cruz stands one win away from another chance to prove his first encounter with the champion was closer than the scorecards indicated.

Ken Woods has been a senior writer at Boxing News 24 since 2013, covering the sport from every angle. With years of ringside reporting, he delivers fight news, results, and analysis that cut through the noise. Ken’s work consistently spotlights champions, contenders, and rising prospects, giving fans a sharp, knowledgeable view of the global boxing scene.