Muratalla Ordered to Defend IBF Title Against Cruz by February 2026

American IBF Lightweight champion Raymond Muratalla has been given until February 10, 2026 to defend his title against mandatory challenger Andy Cruz, reports BoxingScene.

With negotiations against the Cuban contender falling through, Muratalla is now planning a voluntary defense before the deadline. IBF rules stipulate that his voluntary bout must take place at least 60 days prior, meaning the champion must fight no later than December.

Talks are underway with Floyd Schofield, who sits just behind Cruz in the IBF rankings, as a possible December opponent.

BoxingScene also notes that Cruz is expected to return in the fourth quarter of 2025, likely late in the year, to stay sharp ahead of the mandated title shot in February.

Raymond Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) last fought in May, when he claimed the interim IBF Lightweight title with a unanimous decision win over Zaur Abdullaev. He was soon elevated to full champion after Vasiliy Lomachenko announced his retirement.

Andy Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) was last seen in June, when he stopped Hironori Mishiro in the fifth round.

Photo: Ring Magazine