Andy Ruiz Jr has requested a third fight against Anthony Joshua after signing with Matchroom Boxing. However, extended inactivity and inconsistent performances since 2019 mean Hearn and Joshua are currently focused on higher-profile heavyweight contenders.
Ruiz returns to action on 4 September. He faces Polish heavyweight Damian Knyba at the Prudential Center in Newark, marking his first appearance since a draw against Jarrell Miller in August 2024. In the six years following his rematch loss to Joshua in December 2019, Ruiz has fought just three times. While he picked up decision victories over Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz, he suffered a second-round knockdown against Arreola and struggled to manage distance against Ortiz. Repeated injuries and sporadic training camps have hindered his development.
Ruiz admitted that sudden financial security and personal distractions impacted his commitment following his initial victory over Joshua. At 36, he must now rebuild his division standing from scratch.
Promoter Eddie Hearn initially left the option open for a third fight in March 2020, noting a bout remained possible “if he keeps winning or if he’s still around.” Hearn also questioned the former champion’s long-term motivation: “Who knows what Ruiz is going to do? He’s made a lot of money. Maybe he sails off into the sunset,” Proposed bouts against rivals such as Deontay Wilder later collapsed during financial negotiations.
Despite his extended lay-off, Ruiz remains focused on securing another shot at Joshua. Speaking on the Mr. Verzace Podcast, he recalled his discussion with promoter Eddie Hearn: “That’s something that I told Eddie Hearn. ‘Eddie Hearn, if I sign with Matchroom and with you, please give me the trilogy.’ That’s something that all my fans want to see. All my Mexican fans, and it can happen. It can happen,” But the heavyweight scene has moved forward in his absence. With prospects like Moses Itauma emerging and Daniel Dubois defeating Joshua, a third meeting carries far less priority.
