Update as of June 5, 2025: With just days to go before the clash between Andy Cruz and Hironori Mishiro, anticipation continues to build. The Cuban Olympic gold medalist is ready to take another major step in his pro career, facing a sharp and confident opponent in Japan’s Mishiro.

The bout, scheduled for June 14 at Madison Square Garden Theater, will be an IBF lightweight title eliminator. The winner may earn a mandatory title shot against either Vasiliy Lomachenko or interim champ Raymond Muratalla.

In a statement given a few days ago to The Ring Magazine, Cruz said: “I’ve put in the hard work and dedication, and I can’t wait to step into the ring again. This fight isn’t just about winning; it’s about showing my people the passion I have for the sport. I’m ready to prove that I’m a contender and bring that win home.”

Cruz is currently ranked No. 3 by the IBF and No. 6 by The Ring at 135 pounds. Mishiro is ranked No. 5 by the IBF and is coming off five straight wins, including a TKO victory over Hinata Maruta.

On June 14, 2025, Madison Square Garden will host a boxing night rich with emotion, skill, and the potential for surprises. In the co-main event, Andy Cruz and Hironori Mishiro will clash in an IBF lightweight world title eliminator — a bout that could reshape the division and pave the way to championship glory.

While the main event features Richardson Hitchins vs. George Kambosos Jr. for the IBF world title, many eyes will be on this intriguing duel of contrasting styles, distant nations, and opposing mindsets. For Cruz, it’s another step toward the summit he’s long been destined to reach. For Mishiro, it’s the chance to shatter expectations and seize global recognition.

Two Paths, One Destination

Andy Cruz doesn’t just fight — he flows, he reads, he creates. The Cuban Olympic gold medalist from Tokyo and three-time amateur world champion turned pro in 2023 with the aura of a prodigy. After just five fights — all wins, two by knockout — he’s already claimed the IBF International lightweight title. His style fuses Cuban schooling with speed, reflexes, and a sharp tactical mind.

Across the ring, Hironori Mishiro brings composure and craft. With 17 wins, one loss, and a Japanese national title under his belt, the Tokyo-born boxer has built his path through quiet determination. His jab ticks like a metronome, his guard is tight, and his patience surgical. Where Cruz dazzles with creativity, Mishiro imposes structure.

This bout is more than a fight. It’s a clash of philosophies: instinctive, improvisational Caribbean boxing versus disciplined, minimalist Japanese precision. Jazz versus classical. Each round will be a mental battle as much as a physical one.

Statistical Breakdown

Andy Cruz: 5–0 (2 KOs) – IBF International Lightweight Champion
Hironori Mishiro: 17–1–1 (6 KOs) – Former Japanese Lightweight Champion

Cruz stands at 175 cm, Mishiro at 177 cm — a near physical match, but stylistic opposites.

Victory Odds

• Cruz by KO/TKO: 30%
• Cruz by Decision: 50%
• Mishiro by KO: 10%
• Mishiro by Decision: 10%

Cruz enters as the favorite thanks to his athleticism, talent, and speed. Yet Mishiro has shown he can neutralize flashier opponents by slowing the tempo and controlling distance. If he drags the pace into his comfort zone, an upset isn’t out of reach.

Possible Scenarios

• Cruz dominates early: imposes his tempo, dances around danger, and wins by wide decision or late TKO.
• Mishiro withstands the storm: weathers early flurries, works the body inside, and rallies late.
• Tactical chess match: cautious exchanges, few risks, close scorecards — decided on razor-thin margins.

Other Fight to Watch

On the same card, the main event features Richardson Hitchins vs. George Kambosos Jr. for the IBF lightweight world title. For a full preview, read our dedicated article:
Hitchins vs Kambosos Jr – Full Preview

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Cruz vs Mishiro fight?
June 14, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Where can I watch it?
It will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

What’s at stake?
It’s an IBF eliminator: the winner becomes the mandatory challenger for the world title.

Who is the favorite?
Andy Cruz is favored for his speed, reflexes, and elite talent. But Mishiro might offer a tougher test than expected.

What are their styles like?
Cruz is a fluid, unpredictable technician. Mishiro is structured, jab-heavy, and patient.

Will there be a knockout?
Cruz has the accuracy and timing to finish fights, but Mishiro has shown strong durability and the ability to stretch bouts to the final bell.