Andy Ruiz Jr. is a heavyweight from Imperial, California, whose quick hands and compact combinations carried him to one of boxing’s biggest upsets. He turned professional in 2009 and first challenged for a world title against Joseph Parker in December 2016, losing a close majority decision.
Ruiz stopped Anthony Joshua in the seventh round at Madison Square Garden on June 1, 2019, winning the WBA, IBF and WBO titles. He recovered from a knockdown and dropped Joshua four times, becoming the first heavyweight world champion of Mexican descent.
Joshua won their December rematch by unanimous decision and regained the belts.
Ruiz beat Chris Arreola in 2021 and Luis Ortiz in September 2022, scoring three knockdowns against Ortiz. A 2024 draw with Jarrell Miller followed.
Damian Knyba beat him by unanimous decision over twelve rounds in Newark on September 4, 2026. The fight report and fight page cover that result. Ruiz is 35–3–1 (22 KOs).
BoxRec lists an indefinite suspension by the New Jersey Athletic Control Board. Its conditions and whether it has been lifted remain unclear. No next fight has been confirmed.
DAZN documentary about the first Joshua–Ruiz contest and the June 2019 unified-title upset.
DAZN Canada archive of the June 2019 first meeting.
Historical interview following Ruiz’s first victory over Joshua at Madison Square Garden.
PBC archive: the Dimitrenko contest preceding Ruiz’s first Joshua world-title fight.
Historical career highlights compilation.
Top Heavyweight Boxing covers the past, present and future of boxing's premier division. Copyright© 2026
Powered by Digital Dynasty Design
