Six fight title bids exposed limits of pro experience

This writer scored the fight a draw. Others are now leaning towards Muratalla. Even the wide charts did not reflect dominance. They reflected how close rounds are decided when one fighter knows how to take it and the other doesn’t.

Muratalla knew how to claim rounds. He stayed in front of Cruz, keeping the fight active and forcing judges to choose between movement and initiative. When the exchange was level, Muratalla’s forward push carried weight. This is learned behavior.

Cruz fought with control and composure. His timing and balance allowed him to neutralize Muratalla for long stretches. He avoided extended exchanges and limited damage. What he didn’t do often enough was assert himself when laps needed to be taken there.

That difference reflects repetition at this level rather than talent. Professional title fights reward visible intent as much as clean work. Cruz often waited for openings instead of creating them. That approach works in amateur boxing. Over twelve rounds against a champion, it leaves too much to the judges.

With comparable professional experience, it probably would have been a different battle. Cruz has shown enough ability to support that view. What he lacked was the accumulated knowledge of when a fight should be taken, not managed.

It wasn’t a lack of skill. It was a test of readiness.

Against this opponent, on this stage, six professional fights were not enough.

This explains the result.