Professional boxer Orlando Cruz announces he’s gay

Orlando Cruz is believed to be the first professional boxer to come out as gay. Cruz 31, was a member of the 2000 Olympic team. He has a professional record is 18-2-1 with nine knockouts. In what he deemed as a distraction, Cruz released a statement on Wednesday.

“I’ve been fighting for more than 24 years and as I continue my ascendant career, I want to be true to myself. 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.”

Cruz indicated he’s received an outpouring of support. Gay marriage is illegal in Puerto Rico. No word on if Cruz is currently in a relationship.