For some, their fire burns both bright and extreme for a long period of time. For others, their fire burns just as brightly but it quickly fizzles out.

Becoming a world champion was a dream come true for Isaac Cruz. But the diminutive super lightweight’s reign came to an immediate end in the first defense of his title against Jose Valenzuela.

To kick off his 2025, Cruz pulled off a win in a fight-of-the-year contender against Angel Fierro. At just 26, Cruz (27-3-1, 18 KOs) should be entering his physical prime. He should also be as ferocious as ever. Yet, there’s something off about him according to Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

Although he should be at the stage where he’s getting better and better, from Edwards' point of view, his skills are already deteriorating.

“I think Isaaz Cruz is slipping already,” said Edwards to The Ring during a recent interview. “All of his fights are life or death. Everything is a war now. I think he’s slipping already.”

The crowd at the T-Mobile Arena may have shouted and applauded Cruz for his efforts but his fan-friendly style has forced him to endure far more punishment than normal. His willingness to absorb two or three blows in order to land one of his big bombs has Edwards concerned.

For Cruz, his game is built directly around will and durability. So far, it’s allowed him to win a world title and popularize his name like few others. His immediate future is an open-ended question. He could look for rematches against Gervonta Davis and Valenzuela, or he could chase down the likes of Teofimo Lopez and others.

Regardless of what he decides to do, Edwards believes that Cruz should act fast. History often repeats itself and those who fought with the same intensity as Cruz enjoyed plenty of highs but eventually, came crashing down far sooner than many anticipated.

“That style doesn’t really last long. I think he’s there for the taking now.”