JAKARTA – The reigning heavyweight world champion, Oleksandr Usyk, is currently the target of all top boxers who have ever tasted or tried to become champions. One of them is Andy Ruiz Jr., the former IBF/WBO/IBO heavyweight world champion from the United States.
For the 36-year-old Mexican-born boxer, stepping into the ring and competing is something that fuels his life.
"Getting into the ring is something I've always wanted to do. My career isn't over yet, and I'm confident I can bounce back," said Ruiz Jr., who holds a record of 35-2-1 (22 KOs).
Ruiz Jr. became world champion in 2019, with a surprising seventh-round TKO victory over Anthony Joshua in a thrilling fight at Madison Square Garden, New York, on June 1, 2019. However, he lost a 12-round decision in the rematch against Joshua, held in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, six months later.
Usyk is currently at the top of the list of boxers he wants to face. Even though the UFC president is planning a fight with Jake Paul, Ruiz Jr. hasn't commented much, but he hasn't ruled it out either.
"I think everyone wants to fight Usyk right now, including me. He's a renowned boxer, a champion, and of course, has a lot of money. That's what's so appealing to everyone," said Ruiz Jr.
"A few weeks ago, I sent a message to Usyk. I said, 'Hey bro, I really want to get in the ring against you. It would be fun.'" Usyk replied, 'If God gives us the time, we can do it. We can do it!'" Ruiz recounted, as quoted by fightnews.com.
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