But while he barely broke a sweat and was being touted as the next big thing, Raymond Muratalla made him incredibly uncomfortable during their meeting last weekend at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Although it was competitive, Muratalla (24-0, 17 KOs) spent most of the night on the front foot. That constant pressure and bully-like mentally paid off as he successfully defended his IBF lightweight title and handed Cruz the first defeat of his career. Skillwise, Muratalla admits that Cruz (6-1, 3 KOs) is up there with some of the best. But when it comes to Cruz's physicality, he doesn't believe the lightweight division is the best place for him. “He’s definitely too small for 135,” Muratalla told several reporters after. Muratalla and Eddie Hearn, Cruz’s current promoter, might be on the same page. Matchroom Boxing’s top man in charge said practically the same thing immediately after their fight. He also stated that Cruz might move down to the 130-pound division. For most of the night, Muratalla was within striking distance of Cruz, refusing to take a step back. Of course, that relentless pursuit worked in his favor, but it also made him an easier target to hit. Cruz took advantage of Muratalla’s aggressive style by landing 176 total punches. After hearing his name announced as the winner, Muratalla passed by a mirror while making his way to the back room. For a moment, he stood there, almost stunned. At no point did he appear hurt or even bothered by Cruz’s offense. But the face he saw staring back at him told a different story. “I don’t know how I even look like this,” Muratalla said laughing while covered in bruises. “I didn’t feel it.”