On August 3, 2024, José Valenzuela defeated Isaac Cruz by split decision in a 12-round super lightweight bout for the WBA super lightweight title at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA. Valenzuela used his jab, footwork, and disciplined counterpunching to neutralize Cruz’s relentless pressure throughout the fight, consistently landing the cleaner shots from range. Cruz finished strongly, but Valenzuela’s effective boxing earned him the victory by scores of 116–112, 116–112, and 113–115, capturing his first world title.