Andy Cruz complained today about champions making “excuses to avoid” fighting. In a cryptic post on Instagram, the unbeaten IBF lightweight mandatory challenger Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) appeared to be hinting that negotiations with IBF champion Raymond Muratalla were not going well.

Muratalla Avoids Cruz IBF Fight?

Cruz and Muratalla were reportedly in talks to fight on the November 22nd card in Riyadh. That event was announced today, but the Muratalla-Cruz fight was not mentioned in Turki Alalshikh’s post revealing the news.

It wouldn’t be a shock if Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) chose to make a voluntary defense of his IBF title to milk it once or twice before he’s ordered to defend against Cruz. His chances of defeating the talented 2020 Olympic gold medalist Cruz would be slim.

Andy might have to forget about Muratalla for the time being and go in a different direction. Cruz is ranked #1 with the WBC for the belt that Shakur Stevenson holds. He should put some heat on him for a fight.

Their mutual promoter, Eddie Hearn, likely won’t go along with the idea because he signed Stevenson to land that Geronta Davis fight. That’s a fight that would bring in millions. The last thing Hearn would want is Andy Cruz beating Shakur, exposing him, and ruining his chances of getting the Tank Davis fight.

“The day I become world champion, I will defend my title against whoever it is, because that’s what champions are for – to defend them, no matter who it is,” said Andy Cruz on Instagram.

“These so-called champions looking for excuses to avoid facing anyone and prefer to seek alternatives. Boxing is for fighters, not for names. Contracts sent to me, I will sign because I came to this country to fight anyone,” said Cruz.

Andy Cruz: Most Avoided Lightweight?

Many people see the Cuban Cruz as the #1 fighter at lightweight, and one that is already being avoided like the plague.

None of the so-called top names want any part of fighting Cruz. Muratalla would be over his head against a skilled fighter like Andy. He’s too good for his own sake. Even Shakur Stevenson, who claims he’s the best at 135, has no interest in fighting Andy Cruz. It’s understandable why.