I've seen a few boxing movies featuring closeted gay boxers, but never in a million years did I ever think we would actually get one.
Former Olympian and World Boxing Federation’s fourth ranked Featherweight Orlando Cruz, 31, has made history as the first boxer to come out of the closet as gay. Unlike former fighter Emile Griffith (who was the subject of a documentary called Ring of Fire), who came out as bisexual after he retired, Cruz is still competing in the ring.
“I’ve been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendant career, I want to be true to myself,” said Cruz. “I want to try to be the best role model I can be for kids who might look into boxing as a sport and a professional career. I have and will always be a proud Puerto Rican. I have always been and always will be a proud gay man.”
Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Cruz began boxing at age 7 and during his amateur career posted a record of 178 wins and 11 losses. In 2000, he was selected for Puerto Rico’s Olympic boxing team. He then made his professional debut in December 2000, winning his first title in March 2008. Cruz has a current record of 18 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss with 9 KOs and will defend his WBO NABO title against Jorge Pazos on October 19. Should he defeat Pazos, Orlando Cruz could be positioned for a world title shot.
Congrats Orlando on living your truth out and proud. Hopefully many young boys who are struggling with their sexuality and have a dream to be a boxer will follow your example and show that not all gay men do hair, makeup, and work in fashion and interior decorating. Some of us gays are sports figures as well. Now all I want to know is Orlando single?
Cruz will defend his WBO NABO against Jorge Pazos on October 19th.
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