Andy Ruiz Jr. believes he could have brought a different outcome to his rematch against Anthony Joshua, with a different preparation on board. After vanquishing ‘AJ’ for the world titles, Ruiz Jr. lost them in the rematch and fell prey to the clutch of criticism.
While he is set to return to action against Chris Arreola, the first-ever Mexican heavyweight champion is still not over his rivalry with Joshua. The original fight saw Ruiz Jr. claim the championship via KO. However, ‘AJ’ avenged the loss via unanimous decision in the rematch.
Hence, ‘The Destroyer’ connected with Fight Hub TV to recall how it could have been a different fight if he would have joined Eddy Reynoso’s gym back then.
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“I would have still been the champion, man, and that’s what I said. It still haunts me to this day in my heart, and I know exactly what to do and what not to do now. Because you know, I went all 12 rounds being overweight and not training, and a part of me was hurt. But I did what I can,” said Ruiz Jr.
Following the loss, Andy Ruiz Jr. has been through a long layoff. Now, ahead of his return, the 31-year-old has been training alongside several other stars like Oscar Valdez, Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, and many more. Additionally, Ruiz Jr. has shed some serious body weight and looks to have hit his prime before a much-awaited return.
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How can Andy Ruiz Jr. become the world champion again?
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The nearing clash against Chris Arreola can be Andy Ruiz Jr.’s ticket to the titles. On bagging a win, he can rightfully enter the championship ride alongside several other heavyweights in Deontay Wilder, Dillian Whyte, and more.
Apart from sacrificing his weight, Ruiz Jr. has added more weapons to his arsenal. He has picked up some of Canelo Alvarez’s in-ring tactics.
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So, all these factors will make him even more treacherous. He will collide against ‘The Nightmare’ on May 1 at the Dignity Health Sports Park, Carson in a 12-rounds headliner. The fight will help to craft some interesting heavyweight matchups ahead.
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