Orlando Cruz headlines on Telemundo tonight

Photo: All Star Boxing

Former world title challenger Orlando “El Fenómeno” Cruz (23-4-1, 11 KOs) of Puerto Rico defends his WBO NABO super featherweight title tonight. against another former world title challenger in Alejandro Valdez (26-7-2, 20 KOs) of Mexico. The Boxeo Telemundo Ford-televised fight is scheduled for ten rounds and will take place at the Kissimmee Civic Center in Kissimmee, Florida. Cruz was a member of the 2000 Puerto Rican Olympic team that also included Miguel Cotto and Ivan Calderon. He is currently rated #5 by the WBO. The card is being dedicated to victims of the nearby Pulse Nightclub tragedy.

What do you know about Valdez?

Honestly nothing. I really don’t like to study videos of my opponents because they could end up fighting me a totally different way. It’s much better that I am prepared to adapt to their style the night of the fight.

Your opponent is left-handed as are you. Does this make the fight more natural for you than when you are fighting a conventional fighter?

It’s all the same to me. I have to be able to adapt to any style in the ring.

Kissimmee has become like a home away from home of your native Puerto Rico. Fighting at home can be pressure for some. Has it been hard for you to focus on this particular fight?

This is not the not the case for me. I am extremely focused on this fight. Fighting in Kissimmee is like fighting in Puerto Rico for me. I am ready to do what I do best, which is box and put on a good show for the followers, fans present, and the viewing audience.

You were recently presented an award. Congratulations and can you please speak on that?

Thank you. The award was in recognition of my success as a Puerto Rican boxer and being active in defending the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT).

You lost friends in the tragedy at the Pulse Nightclub. How has this affected you mentally as you enter from fight tonight?

This fight means a lot to me. I am dedicating it to all the victims of this tragedy. This is for our pride, rights, and respect.

How has your life changed since you are not just a boxer but also an activist for the LGBT?

I myself have been happily married for three years, but I don’t mix my personal life with that of my career in boxing.

What are you goals for 2016?

The immediate priority is to be successful tonight. Then I will pursue my second world title fight but to win it this time.
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Doors open 7:30 PM, First bell at 8:30 PM. Telemundo Network available in HD will televise main event starting at 11:35 PM. Tuto Zabala, Jr., All Star Boxing, Inc is presenting the show, Tickets are already on sale at Kissimmee Civic Center 201 E. Dakin Ave, Downtown Kissimmee, FL or by calling 407-935-1412.