Raymond Muratalla surrendered the belt after struggling to make 135 pounds for his recent defense against Robson Conceição. He plans to continue his career at light welterweight, creating an opening for the IBF’s two highest-ranked available contenders.
Cruz (7-1, 4 KOs) lost a majority decision to Muratalla in January after challenging for the championship in only his seventh professional appearance. Muratalla’s pressure and activity became increasingly effective during the later rounds, showing that Cruz’s extensive amateur background had not fully prepared him for the physical demands of a hard professional
