Let’s come straight to the point. Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Anthony Joshua was indeed the greatest upset of 2024. But hey… let’s try to look from Andy Ruiz’s POV. ‘The Destroyer’ was the one to beat Anthony Joshua for the first time since his debut in October 2013. Following their rematch, the Imperial native revealed that he was even approached by Mexico’s boxing commission to represent them in the Olympics. But even before he decides anything, he is made shut. So, what was the warning about? Well… he will be BANNED from boxing for two years by WBC if he fights at the Tokyo Olympics for Mexico.

Moving forward, fans might expect his comeback, but they are still left wondering whether the boxer can return to his original form. In a recent episode of Joe Rogan‘s podcast, Rogan, alongside comedian Bryan Callen, reflected on Ruiz’s rise and subsequent fall. Rogan didn’t mince words, expressing disappointment at Ruiz’s missed opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in boxing. But what exactly did Rogan say about the fallen champion, and how does it reflect on Ruiz’s career? Let’s take a closer look.

The fall from grace: Joe Rogan’s disappointment over Andy Ruiz

During the podcast, Rogan was quick to point out how everything changed after the June 2019 victory. “He got real fat,” Rogan lamented. “It’s so sad, because like, you had a real chance of carving out a legacy.” In Ruiz’s second bout with Joshua later that year, he appeared significantly out of shape, which many believe contributed to his lackluster performance where AJ won the fight in a unanimous decision.

However, Joe Rogan pointed out how Ruiz’s performance in the first fight with Joshua was nothing short of spectacular. “The knockout in the first fight was f**ucking huge,” he said, praising Ruiz’s boxing skills. He further added, “He has speed. His boxing combinations are so fluid. He punches like a middleweight.” Rogan continued, “When he came out, did the podcast after he beat Joshua, he had a f**ucking diamond-crusted watch, he came in a Rolls-Royce. I was like, ‘Let’s go, Andy. Let’s go! I like it.'”

Just when he seemed over the topic, Bryan Callen chimed in. He pointed out the difficulty of maintaining a championship mentality once you’ve achieved the title. “It’s like getting a belt and staying a champion,” Callen said. He moreover compared it to running a business. Why? Because it highlights the responsibility and hard work required to remain successful.

If you’re wondering why Joe Rogan is so critical, it’s not just about his loss against AJ, but for some other reasons too.

The road to redemption: Can Andy Ruiz bounce back?

Andy Ruiz Jr. turned pro at just 19 years old and quickly made a name for himself in the boxing world. His victory over Anthony Joshua in 2019 was a fairy-tale moment. However, that Cinderella story turned tragic just months later when he failed to defend his IBF, IBO, and WBO World Heavyweight Champion belt to Joshua in December 2019. Since then, Ruiz has only fought three times, struggling to regain his former glory.

‘The Destroyer’ did show some signs of a potential comeback when he fought and defeated the legendary Cuban boxer Luis Ortiz in 2022. The Cuban Southpaw was down twice in round two and once in round 7, while the victory was landed to the 35-year-old by a unanimous decision. Ruiz expressed his desire to continue building his legacy.

Two years later, he returned to the ring in August 2024 to face Jarrell Miller. Unfortunately, the fight ended in a disappointing draw. Many saw this as a missed opportunity for the 35-2-1, 22 KO boxer to prove he was back on track.

With that said, what do you think of Joe Rogan’s comments about Andy Ruiz Jr.? Can Ruiz make a successful comeback, or has he lost his chance? Do share your thoughts below!