Andy Ruiz Jr. has felt the euphoric feeling of being on top of the boxing world but he’s also endured the lowest of lows.
In December of 2016, Ruiz sulked as a chance to become heavyweight champion slipped through his fingers against Joseph Parker. But after recording three consecutive victories, the Mexican star was given the opportunity of a lifetime against Anthony Joshua three years later.
Viewed as a sizable underdog on the night, Ruiz peeled himself up off the deck before handing Joshua the first defeat of his career. While he was proud of his achievement, the 33-year-old spent far too much time enjoying the fruits of his labor. As a result, an incredibly out-of-shape Ruiz sauntered into their immediate rematch in noticeably horrific condition.
With Joshua pounding his man from pillar to post, a rededicated Ruiz has emerged. Since having his unified title reign truncated, Ruiz (35-2, 22 KOs) has gone on to register back-to-back wins, the latest coming at the expense of Luis Ortiz.
Seemingly back on track, Ruiz now stands on the cusp of another world title opportunity. However, he’ll likely be asked to take on former heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder. With both parties ranked highly in the WBC sanctioning body, a showdown between them could be mandated in the coming weeks.
Wilder, of course, has bounced back nicely since suffering back-to-back defeats at the hands of Tyson Fury. Anxious and determined to return to his winning ways, the Alabama native blasted fringe contender Robert Helenius via first-round stoppage just a few short weeks ago.
As a showdown against Wilder now looms, Ruiz is well aware that Wilder is likely to be considered the odds-on favorite. Nevertheless, the former IBF, WBO, and WBA heavyweight champion isn’t unnerved over their impending bout.
“I’m really confident,” said Ruiz during an interview with iD Boxing. “Nobody can really match my style. Once they get inside that ring, I’m like a different person.”
Ruiz’s overwhelming self-belief seemingly stems not only from his need to embark on another world title run but also from his overarching skillset.
Known for his ability to separate men from their consciousness, Wilder (43-2-1, 42 KOs) will enjoy a gargantuan five-inch height and nine-inch reach advantage, should the two officially square off. Still, despite what would appear to be numerous disadvantages, Ruiz views his so-called physical deficiencies as a tally in his favor.
“I feel the abilities that I have, the power, the quickness, the movement, and me being short is an advantage. It’s harder for the taller guys to fight shorter guys that move around and that are fast. I’m gonna win.”