Lee McGregor Looking to Make a Big Statement Against Diego Alberto Ruiz
The last few months have been a time of uncertainty for rising Scottish bantamweight Lee “Lightning” McGregor (11-0, 9 KOs). Heading into his match against Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-4, 12 KOs) on February 11 at York Hall in Bethnal Green, England, McGregor is happy to get back into action.
The 25-year-old respects Ruiz. But, as he told Ring TV, he will leave nothing to chance against the fighter from Argentina.
“He comes and has a go. He comes to win. You don’t want anyone coming just to pick up a paycheck and leave. I need to be on my game, I want to go in there and put on a dominant performance and make a big statement. I want to showcase what I’ve been working on in the gym and deal with this guy in devastating fashion.”
THOUGHTS ON HIS RIVAL
Currently the European Bantamweight champion, McGregor is ranked third by the IBF and sixth by the WBA at 118. All roads were leading towards an April rematch with Kash Farooq in a European Bantamweight title defense. The two previously fought in November of 2019, with McGregor winning by a hotly disputed split decision. McGregor – Farooq II was set for April. But to the shock of many among UK boxing circles, Farooq announced his retirement in January of 2022 due to what he called unforeseen circumstances. McGregor was crestfallen upon hearing the news.
“I’m gutted and there’s so many reasons why I’m gutted. The history from the first fight, the rematch was going to be huge. Everyone in British boxing was anticipating that fight. I was so excited for it. They’re the type of fights you dream about being involved in as a kid.
Financially, it was a good fight for my profile, exposure, everything would be through the roof. The improvements I’ve made and put the wrongs right, any doubters – put that to bed. I’ve improved so much as a fighter and person. I’m devastated for him and myself.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Overcoming that disappointment, McGregor must now redirect his focus. Due to his high world rankings, “Lightning” is not too far from a world title fight. He feels a major fight is coming soon.
“It looks like there’s going to be a big fight after this, probably May, June. Just waiting on some more confirmation. I’m focused on this one, but I know my team have got something spicy lined up for me.”
None of that matters if he does take care of business against Ruiz. With potential big fights and a possible world title shot on the horizon, no slip-ups can be afforded.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
