The signing is an interesting one given Ruiz’s history with the company. In June 2019, Ruiz pulled off one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight history by stopping Matchroom’s flagship fighter, Anthony Joshua, in the seventh round at Madison Square Garden to capture the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles. Joshua reclaimed the belts six months later in their rematch in Saudi Arabia.
Ruiz has fought only sporadically since that victory over Joshua. He defeated Chris Arreola in 2021, outpointed Luis Ortiz in 2022, and most recently fought Jarrell Miller to a 12-round draw in August 2024. Long layoffs, injuries, and weight issues have slowed the momentum he built from his stunning championship win.
The former champion’s comeback will air live on DAZN, and he has reunited with trainer Manny Robles, who guided him to his career-defining victory over Joshua.
“I’m so happy and thankful for signing with Matchroom and taking another step forward to continue my mission and to become a two-time champion of the world for Mexico,” Ruiz said. “I believe everything happens for a season and I’m so grateful God is giving me a second opportunity to do everything right. Sometimes God breaks you to make you a better person and a better fighter.
“I made history with Matchroom and DAZN, and best believe we are going to do it again in God almighty’s name.”
Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn believes Ruiz can still make another run at a world title.
“The heavyweight landscape is always evolving, and a fully fit and firing Andy Ruiz Jr. is a nightmare for anyone in the division,” Hearn said. “Andy shocked the world in New York with his stunning victory over AJ, and if ‘The Destroyer’ from that night returns to the ring, there is no doubt he can become a two-time world champion.”
The immediate focus is Ruiz’s return to the ring, with Matchroom expected to reveal his next opponent later this week. The heavyweight division is already crowded with contenders and former champions, and Ruiz is no longer viewed as a major title threat after nearly two years out of the ring. However, his name recognition and the lasting impact of his victory over Joshua still make him a valuable addition.
With Matchroom already promoting Joshua, the possibility of a trilogy fight cannot be completely ruled out if Ruiz can rebuild with a couple of wins. The priority is getting him active again and seeing whether he can revive a career that has lacked consistency since reaching the top of the sport.
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