Biography:
Terri Lynn Lil Loca Cruz, born in Raton, New Mexico, is a renowned boxer who has made a lasting impact in the world of women’s boxing. Her impressive career spanned fifteen years, during which she established herself as a formidable force in the ring. With a professional record of 17-7-2, Cruz retired from boxing in 2011, leaving behind a legacy that is etched in the annals of the sport.
Cruz’s boxing journey commenced in Denver, Colorado, where she honed her skills as a professional fighter. Over the course of her career, she engaged in a total of 26 fights, completing 130 rounds and showcasing her exceptional talent and determination. Cruz’s dedication and resilience earned her the well-deserved nickname, Road Warrior, as she fearlessly competed in various locations across the globe.
On October 5, 2005, Cruz achieved a milestone in her career by securing her first world title. In a hard-fought battle against Heather Percivil, she emerged victorious in a unanimous decision, claiming the IFBA World Bantamweight Title. Cruz’s dominance extended beyond her initial triumph, as she successfully defended her title on November 4, 2006, against Eun Young Kim in Boeum Gun, South Korea. The ten-round bout ended with Cruz prevailing through a split decision, thus solidifying her reputation as an indomitable force in the ring.
Adding yet another accolade to her already illustrious career, Cruz secured the WIBA Super Bantamweight Title by defeating Jessica Mohs. After four rounds, Mohs was unable to answer the bell, resulting in Cruz winning by a TKO. This victory further cemented her position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of female boxing.
Terri Cruz’s contributions extend far beyond the boxing ring. She is a dedicated mother to her three children, including her 29-year-old son Anthony Cruz, a graduate of the University of Virgin Islands College, her 22-year-old son Moses Cruz, a graduate of Thornton High School, and her daughter Genisis Mestas, who recently graduated from Bear Creek High School. Cruz’s commitment to her family serves as a testament to her character and the values she instills in her loved ones.
The Cruz family boasts a rich boxing heritage, with Terri’s father, Arturo Cruz Sr., her brothers Arturo Cruz Jr. and Noah Cruz, her sister Brandi Fernandez, and niece Brittany Cruz all making names for themselves in the Colorado Boxing Community. Their collective impact on the sport and shared dedication to the sport of boxing highlight their genuine passion for the ring.
Terri Cruz’s boxing achievements have not gone unnoticed, as she has been recognized for her remarkable contributions to the field. She stands as Colorado’s only female boxer to receive the esteemed honor of being recognized twice by the Sportswomen of Colorado for her outstanding accomplishments in boxing. Her unparalleled skill and unwavering determination have paved the path for future generations of female boxers, marking her as a pioneering figure in women’s boxing history.
Awards:
– IFBA World Bantamweight Title
– WIBA Super Bantamweight Title
– Twice recognized by the Sportswomen of Colorado