It says a lot about Cruz that he is taking on this tough assignment shortly after his first pro defeat. A 2020 Olympic gold medalist, Cruz came up short in his title challenge of IBF 135lbs beltholder Raymond Muratalla, 24-0 (17 KOs), on January 24 in Las Vegas. Cruz now has a chance to avenge that defeat, as a win over Bell would put him directly in line for a rematch with the undefeated titlist Muratalla.
