Boxing sensation Andy Cruz has made his way back to Cuba, reuniting with his loved ones more than two years after leaving the island. Cruz, who has enjoyed a thriving professional career marked by an undefeated streak and strong prospects for a world title, shared heartfelt moments with family and friends during his visit.
Reinier Blanco Díaz took to Facebook to share a photo of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion and amateur world titleholder, sparking a wave of reactions on social media regarding his return to his homeland. "Andy Cruz is in Cuba visiting his family, as many Cubans do today. Some seem to forget that he left the country legally for the Dominican Republic. It's not always about escaping, folks," Blanco commented.
Back in June 2022, Cruz attempted an unsuccessful illegal departure to the Dominican Republic to kickstart his professional boxing career, missing the National Championship Playa Girón in the process. The following month, the National Boxing Commission expelled him from the national team, citing "frequent absences from training" and "turning his back on commitments."
After months of uncertainty, Cruz managed to leave Cuba legally in November 2022, reuniting with his partner in the Dominican Republic. By May 2023, he had reached the United States, solidifying his entry into the professional boxing scene with a lucrative contract with Matchroom Boxing.
Since setting foot in the U.S., the boxer from Matanzas has built a meteoric and successful professional career. He remains unbeaten and is seen as a top contender for a world title. Many experts now regard him as the best active Cuban boxer, lauding his technique, speed, and prowess in the ring.
Andy Cruz's Professional Boxing Journey
What led to Andy Cruz's expulsion from the national team?
Andy Cruz was expelled from the national team in July 2022 due to "frequent absences from training" and "turning his back on commitments," following an unsuccessful attempt to leave Cuba illegally.
How did Andy Cruz eventually leave Cuba?
Cruz left Cuba legally in November 2022 and reunited with his partner in the Dominican Republic, eventually moving to the United States in May 2023.
What are Andy Cruz's prospects in professional boxing?
Cruz remains unbeaten in his professional career and is considered a strong contender for a world title, earning recognition as the best active Cuban boxer for his technique and speed.