Devin Haney impressed by Muratalla wins Andy Cruz

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During a discussion about the current state of the 135-pound division, Haney admitted Muratalla’s performance against the Cuban standout was stronger than he expected.

“I didn’t know he was that good,” Haney told InsideRingShow this week. “I knew he was good, but I didn’t know he was this good.”

On January 24, 2026, Muratalla (24-0, 17 KOs) defeated 2020 Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz (6-1, 3 KOs) by a 12-round majority decision. The judges returned scores of 118-110, 116-112 and 114-114, giving Muratalla the biggest win of his professional career.

Cruz entered the fight with enormous expectations after his amateur run, which included Olympic gold and wins over several top opponents before turning professional. His amateur pedigree has led many to consider him a future title contender despite only six professional fights.

The action itself produced mixed opinions on how the rounds played out. Cruz landed frequent counters and used his head movement to avoid much of Muratalla’s offense as the undefeated contender pressed forward. Muratalla did his best work as he forced Cruz to the ropes and targeted the body.

The 118-110 and 116-112 scorecards quickly became a subject of debate, with several unofficial scores circulating online that had the fight much closer or even tied.

The visible damage after the fight also became part of the discussion. Andy appeared to finish the match with little swelling, while Muratalla left the ring with two dark eyes and swelling around his cheeks.

Nevertheless, Haney’s reaction showed the level of respect Muratalla earned from fellow fighters after the fight. Praise from a former undisputed champion reflects how Muratalla’s performance has registered in a lightweight division full of contenders.

The win over Cruz is the biggest win of Muratalla’s career and moved him further into the group of fighters chasing opportunities near the top of the lightweight division.