Orlando Cruz was born July 1, 1981 in Puerto Rico. He is a professional boxer who began his professional debut December 15, 2000 against Alfredo Valdez and did not lose a match until 2009 when he lost to his opponent Cornelius Lock by TKO. He was also labelled as No.4 in the world by the WBO. He recently came out Thursday announcing that he is a "Proud Gay Man".
According to ESPN he elaborated on the issue as follows:
"I developed physically and mentally to take such a big step in my life and in my profession, which is boxing, knowing that it would have pros and cons, highs and lows in this sport that is so macho," he said. "I kept this hidden for many, many years."
I don't want to hide any of my identities," he said. "I want people to look at me for the human being that I am. I am a professional sportsman that always brings his best to the ring. I want for people to continue to see me for my boxing skills, my character, my sportsmanship. But I also want kids who suffer from bullying to know that you can be whoever you want to be in life, including a professional boxer, that anything is possible and that who you are or whom you love should not be impediment to achieving anything in life.
"I want to thank my family, especially my mom, who's my inspiration and my best reason to continue to live and my brother and my sister. I want to thank my friends for their love and support. And I also want to thank my team for believing in me and being so supportive not only in this decision, but throughout my career. I am and will always be a proud Puerto Rican gay man."
His decision to come out has dismantled many stereotypes regarding homosexuality and athleticism together being a misnomer. Viewing as much stigma and misunderstanding still surrounds homosexuality, it took bravery and courage in order to be open and honest about his sexual orientation. There has been a dearth number of athletes who have openly came out or spoken on issues of homosexuality or gay marriage and Cruz' announcement is a historic one in particualr for the boxing world as it is recorded he is the first one in his sports field to be openly gay. He has truly come facefront with the very real potential of facing "intolerance" in the sports world and in society more generally. Nonetheless, more dialogue by such notable figures who many look up to could shed more light and disperse the enigma inspiring many misconceptions. Cruz was actually met with "praise", encouragement and support from his loved ones.
"I've been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendant career, I want to be true to myself," he said. "I have always been and always will be a proud gay man."
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