Isaac 'Pitbull' Cruz returns to the ring for September title defence

Cruz (28-3-2, 18KOs) was last seen in December 2025, when he fought to a 12-round draw with Lamont Roach Jr. to retain the belt he won less than five months earlier. Now, the 28-year-old Mexico City native looks to earn his first victory as interim champion when he faces Nestor Bravo on Saturday, September 19 in San Diego, California, and broadcast live worldwide on DAZN and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I am extremely motivated to return to the ring on September 19,” Cruz said. “I know that Bravo is very hungry and hoping to pull off the upset, but I also have a very clear goal, to keep proving that I belong among the elite.”

Bravo (24-1, 17 KOs) suffered his first defeat in March 2025, when he lost by split decision to Xolisani Ndongeni. The 32-year-old from Puerto Rico bounced back in his next fight, scoring a knockout victory over Pedro Campa in Brooklyn in January.

Now, Bravo looks to continue his winning ways, this time with a title on the line.

“September 19 is gonna be a classic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico showdown,” Bravo said. “I’m very grateful to my team, and everyone who made this incredible event possible. I’m facing a tough, aggressive fighter who comes forward and likes to engage. But I have all the skills and versatility to win by any means necessary. We’re preparing the right way, and on fight night Puerto Rico will have a new champion."

In addition to Cruz vs. Bravo, another fight has been announced on the card as interim WBC middleweight champion Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. will take on mandatory challenger Meiirim Nursultanov in the co-main event.

Further bouts will be announced at a later date.

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