01/29/2025
Photo Credit: Premier Boxing Champions
In boxing, momentum is everything. One fight can elevate a career, and one misstep can send it tumbling back down. Few know this better than Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. He was riding the highest wave of his career—on the brink of superstardom—only to be blindsided by an unexpected defeat. But now, on February 1, under the bright lights of the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, he has the chance to reassert himself as one of the most ferocious warriors in the sport.
Cruz’s ascent to the top of the sport had been nothing short of spectacular. His relentless pressure, iron chin, and thunderous punching power made him a nightmare for opponents. After bulldozing his way through Rolly Romero to capture the WBA Junior Welterweight Championship, he was no longer just a rising contender—he was a world champion.
With the title came everything: money, fame, and most importantly, the rematch he had long desired with Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Their first meeting in 2021 was a war, with Cruz giving Davis one of the toughest fights of his career before losing a close decision. Now, with championship gold around his waist, the rematch seemed inevitable.
Photo Credit: Matchroom Boxing
Then came August 3.
Against Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela, Cruz entered the ring as a heavy -450 betting favorite. Many saw the fight as a showcase, a chance for the newly crowned champion to shine on a major stage and build momentum toward bigger fights. But Valenzuela had other plans.
For twelve rounds, Rayo boxed beautifully. He frustrated Cruz, making the aggressive brawler look out of sorts. As the final bell rang, the crowd was stunned. When the decision was announced—split decision for Valenzuela—Cruz’s title was gone, along with his immediate hopes for the Tank Davis rematch.
It was a crushing defeat. But true fighters are defined not by their losses, but by how they respond.
Now, Cruz is set to return for the first time since that fateful night. On February 1, he will face fellow Mexican Angel Fierro in what is being billed as a return to form—a reintroduction of the Pitbull.
Photo Credit: Team Cruz
“I learn from every fight, so I don’t ever consider a fight a loss,” Cruz said. “It’s given me the opportunity to look at things from another perspective. I promise that I’m coming back even stronger.”
His demeanor is different now. Gone is the bravado of a newly crowned champion. In its place is a fighter hungry to reclaim his place at the top. Another loss could derail his career for good, while a dominant win could thrust him right back into the conversation for marquee fights. The stakes are high.
Gone is his title. Gone is the Gervonta Davis rematch. What isn’t gone, however, is his fans.
La Raza.
Gente.
Despite the loss, Cruz remains a fan favorite. Mexican fight fans, known for their unwavering loyalty, have not abandoned him. The outpouring of love and support he received reaffirmed his standing among his people.
Photo Credit: Premier Boxing Champions
“I remember my first time fighting in Las Vegas because it was the culmination of years of hard work,” Cruz said. “Every Mexican fighter wants to fight in Las Vegas, and I’m thankful to be coming back. This doesn’t feel much different than that first time, and that’s because of all the fans who have shown me love. I’m thankful for them, and I want to make them proud.”
Angel Fierro is no pushover. The 26-year-old from Tijuana, Baja, California, Mexico, has built a reputation as a tough, durable fighter with knockout power of his own. While Cruz is the clear favorite, he knows better than to overlook his countryman.
“This fight means everything to me because it’s Mexico vs. Mexico, and everyone knows what happens when two Mexicans collide. It’s gonna be a war for sure.”
Just one month after Cruz steps into the ring, Gervonta Davis will return to action. With Tank lacking a clear next opponent, Cruz knows that a statement win could put him right back in the mix for that lucrative rematch.
Photo Credit: Team Cruz
“Saturday, February 1 is a new beginning,” Cruz said. “Fans love these types of fights, and that’s who I fight for. We had a strong training camp to be at our best when the bell rings. The goal is to retake our spot at the top and get into more big fights. We’re going to go into that ring in great shape.”
Pitbull Cruz has never been one to back down from adversity. February 1 isn’t just about winning—it’s about proving that he still belongs among boxing’s elite. He has lost a title, an opportunity, and some momentum, but what he hasn’t lost is the fire that made him one of the most feared fighters in the world.
Now, with his career at a crossroads, he steps back into the ring. And if he has his way, the world will remember exactly why they call him the Pitbull.
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