In a highly anticipated clash set to ignite the boxing world, Raymond Muratalla and Andy Cruz are poised to square off in a 12-round main event for the IBF interim World Lightweight championship. The bout, scheduled for Saturday night, January 24, 2026, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two formidable fighters.
Raymond Muratalla, the defending IBF interim lightweight world champion, brings an impressive record of 23-0 with 17 knockouts. Hailing from Fontana, California, Muratalla’s experience in the ring is unparalleled. His opponent, Andy Cruz, boasts a flawless record of 6-0 with three knockouts. Originally from Matanzas, Cuba, and now fighting out of Miami, Florida, Cruz is favored to win the IBF title by a 12-round decision.
The betting odds reflect Cruz’s slight edge, with odds ranging from -225 to -270, meaning a bet of $225-$270 would win $100. Muratalla, the underdog, has odds of +185 to +200, offering a potential win of $185-$200 on a $100 bet. Despite being the underdog, Muratalla’s superior ring generalship could very well secure him the victory.
The outcome of this bout could have significant implications for the lightweight division. With the recent removal of Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis from the active boxer ledger, the winner of this match could emerge as the top-ranked lightweight in the world on BoxRec. This adds an extra layer of excitement and stakes to an already high-profile fight.
In the preliminary bout, two-time super middleweight world title contender Jesse Hart, with a record of 31-3 and 25 knockouts, is predicted to win by a 10-round unanimous decision over Khalil ‘Big Steppa’ Coe. Coe, holding a record of 10-1-1 with eight knockouts, will be defending his WBC USA 175-pound light heavyweight regional title. Hart, at 36 years old and on a five-bout winning streak, must overcome Coe to make a final run for a title.
Additionally, the card features a 10-round crossroads middleweight bout between Israil Madrimov and Luis David Salazar. Madrimov, a two-time junior middleweight world title challenger, is predicted to win by knockout. This bout marks the first time both fighters will compete at the higher 160-pound middleweight weight limit.
Other notable fights on the card include Harley Mederos vs. Renny Viamonte Mastrapa and Omari ‘Banger’ Jones vs. an opponent to be announced. Mederos, with a record of 9-0 and eight knockouts, is predicted to win by stoppage. Jones, a super welterweight prospect with a record of 4-0 and four knockouts, is also predicted to secure a victory.
This eight-bout card promises to deliver a night of thrilling action and high-stakes competition, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of boxing in Las Vegas.
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