Isaac Cruz is readying for his September 19 showdown with Nestor Bravo, for “Pitbull’s” WBC interim junior welterweight strap inside the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California, with the help of esteemed coach Eddy Reynoso.
Mexico City’s Cruz is a long-time admirer of Reynoso, who is perhaps best known for his work with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.
“One of the main reasons I want to work with Eddy Reynoso is his experience and the tremendous job he’s done with Canelo, and a long list of top fighters,” said Cruz.
“His ability to understand fighters, both mentally and technically, and to read each situation, has allowed him to reach the top of the sport. I believe Eddy has the qualities, experience, and knowledge we need to compete with the elite of boxing today.”
Cruz, 28-3-2 (18 KOs), knows he needs to beat Puerto Rico’s Bravo, 24-1 (17 KOs), to secure a shot at the full-fat WBC title at 140lbs. That belt will be on the line in Sheffield, England, when champion Dalton Smith takes on Alberto Puello on October 24.
“Bravo is a very tough fighter who always comes forward and likes to put on a show,” said Cruz.
“We’re going to be the next chapter of a great boxing rivalry and I know that this fight has everything it takes to go down in history as one of the great fights in the Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry. I expect Bravo to come out with an aggressive mindset, but we have our own strategy to counter his style.
“I want to make a statement and leave no doubt that I deserve to face the winner of Smith vs. Puello.
“I’m also ready to face any champion in the division. And why not think about facing [welterweight titlists] Teófimo López, Ryan García or any 140-pound champion, such as Gary Antuanne Russell, in the not-too-distant future? But first, we have to take care of business and win on September 19.”
The defense against Bravo marks the fan-favourite’s first outing in San Diego.
Cruz, who most recently drew with Lamont Roach over 12 rounds last December, is expecting the local Mexican fight fans to come out in force.
“I’m very happy to be coming to San Diego for the first time,” said Cruz. “It’s a city with a huge Mexican community, and one that was once part of a Mexican territory. I want to give the fans in San Diego and coming up from Tijuana a fight to remember. I’m sure I’m going to feel right at home.
“The fans give you an adrenaline rush that every fighter craves.
Feeling the support and affection of the fans, especially in the United States, is priceless. I’m going to give it my all to put on a great show and make sure the fans leave satisfied.
“I want to showcase everything we’ve worked on and prepared for during this great training camp. You’re going to see a ‘Pitbull’ Cruz victory on September 19. Make no mistake about it.”
