Cruiserweight contender Leonardo Mosquea made a triumphant homecoming in Cayenne, French Guiana before Christmas.

Mosquea, rated at No. 7 by The Ring at cruiserweight, had high hopes for 2025 only to be sidelined for several months through injury before vacating his European title.

The 31-year-old put that disappointment behind him and beat Jeison Troncoso in eight rounds on December 19.

"I believe I delivered the fight that was needed, both technically and tactically," Mosquea (18-0, 11 KOs) told The Ring. "It was important for me to strictly follow the game plan and take as little punishment as possible in order to confirm the improvements made against this type of opponent."

The Dominican Republic-born fighter was raised in Cayenne from the age of 10 and this worked out as a good landing spot for him to return and fight there having done so twice previously, including his debut in December 2019 and then when he won the French national title against Brice Clavier (TKO 1) in March 2023.

According to his manager, Alex Komurian, the opportunity was driven by several reasons.

"First, Leonardo is a local fighter and receives tremendous support there, which gives him extra strength and motivation," said Komurian, who noted around 2000 people attended the fight.

"Second, our main partner and event organizer, Flexcible (A sporting clothing brand), is also based there.

"Finally, the entire region and local institutions are backing us. In a place where the situation can be challenging and where boxing struggles to stand out against other sports, this event represents a strong opportunity to reignite passion for boxing."

After putting his injury behind him and making a successful homecoming, Mosquea is ready for the next stage of his career.

"I feel good, fully fit, and ready to show that I belong at the very top of the world stage," he said.

"My goal for 2026 is clear: to take part in the fight or fights that will allow me to become a world champion."

Komurian, who has mapped out Mosquea's career to this juncture, is keen to push his fighter on to the next level.

"We have proven that Leonardo can impose himself at the highest European level," he said. "Our ambition is now global. We are targeting major world boxing organizations such as the WBA, WBC, WBO or IBF. We are ready for the crowning of the king."