Former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. is ready to begin the next chapter of his career. Matchroom Boxing announced Wednesday that Ruiz has signed a multiyear promotional agreement. Giving the former heavyweight king a fresh opportunity to climb back into world title contention as the division enters a new era.
With three of the four major heavyweight titles now vacant following Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to relinquish them. Ruiz believes the timing couldn’t be better for another championship run.
Ruiz (35-2-1, 22 KOs) has fought just four times since shocking Anthony Joshua in June 2019 to become the first Mexican-American heavyweight champion in boxing history.
Although he lost the rematch to Joshua six months later, Ruiz rebounded with victories over Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz before fighting Jarrell Miller to a majority draw in August 2024.
Now 36 years old, Ruiz says the setbacks have reignited his passion.
“Once you have everything and lost it all, you’re going to do whatever it takes to get that back,” Ruiz said in a video released by Matchroom Boxing. “And that’s why I’m ready to go to war with any other heavyweight out there. I had to be broken to be reborn.”
Ruiz believes he has rediscovered both the physical and mental edge that helped him produce one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight boxing history.
“I feel right now I’m more strong mentally and physically and I’m more hungry,” Ruiz said. “I’m better than a lot of these other heavyweights that are out there right now.”
With the heavyweight division undergoing significant changes, Ruiz sees another opportunity to reach the top.
“All the belts that everybody has, I want them. I want them back. I’m motivated, and I’m hungry from all the stuff that I’ve been through.”
Heavyweight Division Wide Open
Ruiz’s signing comes at an ideal time. Following Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate the WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles, the championship picture has been completely reshaped, opening the door for several contenders to pursue world titles.
Ruiz hopes to position himself among that group as quickly as possible.
“I’m here to make history again.”
Matchroom Ready to Get Ruiz Active
Matchroom Boxing has already indicated Ruiz won’t have to wait long for his return. The promotion teased that his next fight will be announced in the coming days, signaling an immediate commitment to keeping the former champion active.
For Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn, the addition of Ruiz provides another recognizable name to strengthen an already deep heavyweight stable.
Conor McGregor and Max Holloway Face Off One Final Time Ahead of UFC 329
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
