Andy Ruiz Jr, the first Mexican-American world heavyweight champion, is ready to step back into the ring. The former unified heavyweight titleholder recently got the go-ahead from his doctor to resume fighting after recovering from a hand injury.
Ruiz made boxing history in June 2019 when he shocked the world at Madison Square Garden. As a last-minute replacement for Jarrell Miller, who failed a drug test, Ruiz knocked out Anthony Joshua and grabbed three of the four major heavyweight belts.
But his reign at the top didn't last long. In the rematch six months later, a poorly prepared and overweight Ruiz lost his titles back to Joshua on points.
Since then, Ruiz has only fought three times in six years. He picked up points wins against Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz. His most recent bout, in August 2024, ended in a majority draw with Jarrell Miller. Ruiz started strong but lost steam as the fight went on, with many feeling Miller did enough to win.
During that fight with Miller, Ruiz broke his hand early on. He's been on the mend ever since. Now, he's chomping at the bit to get back in action.
"Just got the green light from the doctor. Let's go I'm ready to fight, who should I fight next year?"
Ruiz has plenty of options in a heavyweight division that's as busy as it's been in years. A rematch with Miller is possible, though Miller is set to face Fabio Wardley in the UK this summer. Other potential opponents include up-and-comer Jared Anderson and highly-ranked Agit Kabayel, who could offer Ruiz a fast track back to a world title shot.
With his hand healed and his motivation high, fans can expect to see the Destroyer back in action soon, looking to recapture the magic that made him champion of the world.
