Puerto Rican gay boxer Orlando Cruz to marry boyfriend
Puerto Rican professional boxer Orlando Cruz is to marry his long term boyfriend José Manuel after proposing on Facebook.
In a video message posted to the social networking site, Cruz said (via translation) “I wanted to tell you how much I need you and how much I miss you”.
Mentioning his upcoming WBO Featherweight Title fight against Mexico’s Orlando Solido, he said to Manuel: “Now, more than ever that I have an important fight coming up for the world championship, I want to tell you that you are a very special person in my life. I am a little nervous, but I want to tell you and share with your friends and my friends if you want to marry me. I want you to be part of my life and me be part of yours.”
In a similar video reply, Manuel accepted his boxing boyfriend’s proposal.
He released a statement to the world saying: “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.”
Equal marriage is not currently recognised in Puerto Rico.
