Former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. has expressed his desire for a trilogy fight against Anthony Joshua, signaling a potential rematch between the two renowned heavyweight boxers, according to latest reports.
In a remarkable upset in June 2019, Ruiz seized victory from Joshua, claiming the heavyweight titles in New York.
However, Joshua reclaimed his titles in a rematch held in Saudi Arabia six months later, concluding their immediate rivalry with one win each.
Despite the outcome of their previous encounters, Ruiz remains eager for a decisive trilogy bout. His return to the ring is scheduled for August 3 against Jarrell Miller, an event that amplifies speculation surrounding a potential third match against Joshua.
Acknowledging Joshua’s recent resurgence, Ruiz attributed his opponent’s regained momentum and confidence to his commendable performances in recent fights.
“He’s getting his momentum back. He’s getting his confidence back. I think that’s the most important thing. He’s doing what he’s supposed to do. I think he’s doing his thing. I’m just happy for him. I would love to have that trilogy with him,” Ruiz said.
“He gave me that opportunity. I gave him back that opportunity, and there’s one more. I want to become a two-time heavyweight champion of the world.”
Meanwhile, Joshua is eyeing a chance to become a three-time heavyweight champion, with only Muhammad Ali having previously achieved the feat.
The British-Nigerian pugilist is currently on a four-fight winning streak following back-to-back defeats of losing his belts and failing to win them back against Oleksandr Usyk.
The last 12 months have seen him pick up four wins, three by knockouts against Robert Helenius, Otto Wallin, and Francis Ngannou.
Asked when he will be back in action after his most recent win on the Jonathon Ross show, as reported via Forbes, Joshua said, “Around September is when I’ve been told; I was hoping for June.
I’ve got some time to go on dates now and mingle a little bit. I’m training at the moment; I’ve got two months before I get into training camp.”
Olaitan Ibrahim