Amanda Serrano is making a comeback to the featherweight division, where she enjoyed her most success as a seven-division champion. On January 3, she will face Erika Cruz in Puerto Rico for a rematch, as announced by Most Valuable Promotions. Their initial 2023 bout ended with Serrano winning by unanimous decision, involving a remarkable exchange of 1,917 punches in ten two-minute rounds. This upcoming fight will have ten three-minute rounds, promising even more intense action.
Serrano stated that every fight is a battle for women’s equality, Puerto Rico, and female athletes everywhere. She expressed pride in defending her unified world title in front of her home crowd, fulfilling her promise to return after an injury last March. Serrano also thanked Cruz for agreeing to a ten-round fight with longer rounds and emphasized their shared mission to advance equality in women’s boxing. Their first encounter was a fierce competition, and Serrano is eager to make history again.
This will be Serrano’s first fight since losing a trilogy match to Katie Taylor in July, where she took a more cautious approach after winning the first two fights but ultimately lost by majority decision. Serrano’s planned December 2023 bout in Puerto Rico was canceled due to an injury caused by a hair treatment chemical affecting her eyes.
Since their first meeting, Erika Cruz has earned three victories and one split draw, capturing the WBA junior featherweight title with a majority decision over Mayerin Rivas.
Fan Take: This rematch between Serrano and Cruz is a significant moment for women’s boxing, highlighting the intense skill and determination these fighters bring to the sport. It’s a powerful statement for equality and showcases the growing prominence and excitement in female boxing, inspiring fans and young athletes worldwide.
