“I Am Fighting This Fight for Me”- Chris Arreola Sends a Message Ahead of Facing Andy Ruiz Jr.

The 40-year-old Chris Arreola has walked through a vicious heavyweight division to attain a pro record of 38-6-2. Now, after a year out, he will return against Andy Ruiz Jr. in a 12-round headliner on May 1. Despite his age and his time away from the ring, he still seems hungry and intends to fight for his legacy.

Before becoming opponents, Ruiz Jr. and Arreola had been sparring partners. ‘The Nightmare’ Arreola desired to be the first-ever Mexican heavyweight champion, but he failed in three championship bouts. Meanwhile, Andy Ruiz Jr. bagged the title in 2019 and only seems to have spurred his compatriot.

Although the upcoming fight will be a non-title contest, it appears to hold huge importance in Arreola’s career. Ahead of the high-voltage clash, he connected with PBC on FOX and expressed his mindset.

“I have something to prove to Andy [Ruiz Jr.]. He was the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent. I should have been that guy. So, I feel like I have something to prove to myself and I have something to prove to the world that I am a great heavyweight,” said Chris Arreola.

He added, “I am not in this for a paycheck. This is more about for me. I am fighting this fight for me.”

Andy Ruiz Jr. will also return to action after a year out. He lost his previous bout to Anthony Joshua in 2019. The former champion has changed his training camp and is currently under Eddy Reynoso‘s stable. He will look to show the world his new version, and ‘The Nightmare’ will be the first one he has to vanquish to re-gain his lost championships.

Read More | Andy Ruiz Jr: Height, Weight, Record, and Every Stat You Need to Know

Andy Ruiz Jr. vs Chris Arreola- Preview

The seven-fight match card will take place at the Dignity Health Sports Park, and California State Athletic Commission will monitor the show. Along with all the Mexican names on show, Ruiz Jr. vs Arreola will remain the prime attraction for the obvious reasons.

The 6′ 3” tall orthodox in Arreola will enjoy a 1” height advantage and 2” reach advantage over Ruiz Jr. As both men are orthodox, the fight will stylistically be similar to them. Meanwhile, they are hard-hitters and can land a flush at any point. So, the fight may not go to the final bell.

Boasting so many unique features, the event clearly is a must-watch for the hardcore fight fans. Do you see Arreola claiming a win and proving that he is a great heavyweight?

Read More | Was Andy Ruiz Sr, the Father of Andy Ruiz Jr, a Boxer?