Premier Boxing Champions)
Lamont Roach and Isaac Cruz fought to a majority draw in their interim WBC super lightweight championship bout on December 6 at Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, showcasing Cruz’s knockdown in the third and Roach’s resilience, with a near-win from Cruz’s point deduction in round seven.
“I knew he would stand his ground and go toe-to-toe, but I know how to box too,” said Cruz (28-3-2, 18 KOs), who retained his title, Highlighting his boxing ability and confidence.
“Hats off to ‘Pitbull,’” said Roach (25-1-3, 10 KOs), who had a 114-114, 113-115, 114-114 draw against boxing superstar Gervonta Davis in March. Cruz lost to Davis by unanimous decision in a close fight in December 2021. “He’s a great champion himself,” Roach said of Cruz. “I gave the fans a great fight. Back to the drawing board.”
Roach’s reference to the drawing board suggests a possible 2026 rematch between the two fighters, keeping fans anticipating future bouts.
“Absolutely, I’d do a rematch,” said Cruz, who complained about the judges and the referee in a fight he thought he won. This shows Roach’s determination and keeps fans excited for future bouts between these fighters.
“I think I should have won a close victory,” Roach said. “I clearly thought I won a close fight.”
In the co-main event, WBC super featherweight champion O’Shaquie Foster dominated an unfocused Stephen Fulton Jr in a 119-109, 118-110, and 117-111 unanimous decision to win the Interim WBC lightweight strap.
“The game plan was to stay smart, stay sharp, and get him out of there in the later rounds,” said Foster. “But he’s a damn good fighter and a veteran, and he knew how to survive.” Fulton (23-2, 8 KOs) was two pounds over the 130-pound weight limit.
“I want Shakur Stevenson,” said Foster of who he wants to fight next. His clear ambition and readiness should make fans feel optimistic about upcoming matchups and Foster’s pursuit of greatness.