Muratalla pressed forward throughout the fight, working the body and staying active, while Cruz relied on movement, timing, and counterpunching. The rounds were largely competitive, with neither fighter scoring a knockdown. Muratalla finished the fight pushing the pace, particularly in the later rounds, which appeared to influence the scoring.
Cruz, a 2020 Olympic gold medallist, was competing in just his seventh professional bout.
Khalil Coe Wins Disputed Decision Over Jesse Hart
In the chief support, Khalil Coe won a ten-round majority decision over former title challenger Jesse Hart in a light heavyweight bout.
Coe entered the fight overweight, meaning his WBC USA title was not at stake. The judges scored the bout 94 94, 95 93, and 96 92 for Coe. Referee Thomas Taylor officiated.
Hart had early success and finished several rounds strongly, while Coe landed heavier shots at intervals. Both fighters were deducted a point during the contest for infractions.
Israil Madrimov Defeats Luis Salazar
Former world champion Israil Madrimov earned a ten-round unanimous decision over Luis Salazar in a middleweight bout.
All three judges scored the fight 99 91. Referee Allen Huggins was in charge.
Madrimov controlled most of the action, switching stances at times and applying steady pressure. Salazar had brief moments of success but was largely outworked over the distance.
Zaquin Moses Scores Knockdown in Decision Win
Lightweight prospect Zaquin Moses defeated Leandro Medina over six rounds, scoring a knockdown along the way.
Moses dropped Medina in the third round with a right hand. The judges scored the fight 60 53 across the board. Referee Thomas Taylor officiated.
Omari Jones Stops Jerome Baxter Once, Wins Decision
Omari Jones remained unbeaten with a six-round unanimous decision over Jerome Baxter in a super welterweight bout.
Jones scored a knockdown and controlled the action throughout. The judges returned scores of 60 53. Referee Robert Hoyle oversaw the fight.
Event Information
Ring announcer: David Diamante
Venue: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Promoter: Matchroom Boxing
