Andy Cruz is Keyshawn Davis’ biggest fan.
No matter how dominant Davis was in the amateurs, he never found a way to figure Cruz out. With a perfect record against him in four meetings, Cruz knows that at some point, they’ll meet again in the pro game.
A matchup between them, however, isn’t likely anytime soon. The 25-year-old Davis has a sizable head start on Cruz in the pros. And, after looking spectacular in his four-year career, Davis will be given his first title shot when taking on Denys Berinchyk at the Theater in New York's Madison Square Garden on Valentine’s Day.
On a day usually reserved for love, Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs) recently gave some to Davis. Not only does he plan on reclining his chair and tuning in, but also thinks his former amateur rival will do his thing.
“I think my son is gonna do well,” Cruz told YSM Sports Media during a recent sit-down interview.
Cruz, 29, wants to fast-track his own career. He’s currently ranked No. 9 by The Ring, holding onto several high spots in multiple sanctioning bodies.
At times, Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) gets sick and tired of Cruz bombastically pointing to their amateur fights. He may have come up short in the unpaid ranks but promises to get it done in the pros. Cruz remembers all of their meetings but their last bout was the most memorable.
In the 2020 Olympics' gold medal match, Davis was forced to swallow another bitter pill as Cruz eked out a split-decision victory. Snatching a gold medal from Davis felt good but taking something else from him in the pro games might feel even better.
“I hope he does get a strap because I want to take it from him.”