The IBF now has Artur Subkhankulov at No. 2 and Cruz directly behind him at No. 3, with the No. 1 spot vacant. Raymond Muratalla remains the IBF lightweight champion but has discussed moving to light welterweight.

If Muratalla gives up the belt and the IBF eventually orders Cruz against Subkhankulov for the vacant title, that would look like an excellent opportunity for the Cuban.

Cruz has already beaten Subkhankulov once. They met in the amateurs in May 2019, with Cruz winning a three-round split decision.

The professional version of the matchup may suit Cruz even better.

At 5-foot-9, Cruz has approximately two inches in height over the 5-foot-7 Subkhankulov. Cruz also brings superior punching power. Subkhankulov is 12-0 with six knockouts, while Cruz has shown considerably more force since turning professional.

The 34-year-old Russian has extensive amateur experience and has gone 10 or more rounds seven times as a professional. He most recently stopped Bakhodur Usmonov in the 12th round in April.

Still, Cruz would bring several physical advantages into a fight against a man he has already defeated.

Nothing guarantees that Subkhankulov will be Cruz’s opponent if Muratalla vacates. The IBF will determine how the vacant championship is filled, and the empty No. 1 ranking leaves room for another contender to become involved.

Cruz could hardly ask for a better position. He sits directly behind Subkhankulov and may soon have an opening to fight for the IBF title against a familiar opponent.