After weeks of speculation, Ruiz Jr will face Joshua on June 1st.
After weeks of speculation, multiple reports are suggesting that Andy Ruiz Jr., (30-1, 20 KOs) will face Anthony Joshua on June 1st.
The fight is for Joshua’s IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles.
Joshua’s original opponent, Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller tested positive three times for a banned substance canceling their bout.
BREAKING: Andy Ruiz has agreed to terms to fight heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua on June 1 in N.Y. on DAZN, according to industry sources. Michael Hunter was also under consideration as the replacement opponent after Jarrell Miller tested positive for three PEDs
— Mike Coppinger (@MikeCoppinger) April 29, 2019
Ruiz, Jr. has challenged once for the WBO heavyweight title in 2016 against Joseph Parker losing a majority decision.
Ruiz, Jr. is a polarizing opponent for many boxing fans. With the disappointment over the loss of Miller still high, and both with Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder already booked, the talent pool is thin.
Many were either elated that Ruiz is suiting up or dismayed at what they feel is yet another mismatch for the “protected” Joshua.
However, with Ruiz’s only loss coming from a controversial loss to Joseph Parker, Ruiz is a solid contender.
An argument can be made that Joseph Parker would never have had the chance to face Anthony Joshua if he didn’t go through Ruiz, Jr. over a year earlier.
Ruiz, Jr. is advised by Al Haymon and he last fought on April 20th on the Danny Garcia v. Adrian Granados undercard. After a 5th round stoppage, Ruiz, Jr. took no punishment and is game for a quick turnaround.
