Andy Ruiz hints at wanting a fight with Deontay Wilder next
On May 1, former world champion and the first Mexican heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz (33-2, 22 KO’s) will take on Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KO’s). The all-Mexican heavyweight showdown will stand as the main event of a FOX PPV. At one point, it was actually Arreola who was seeking to become the first Mexican heavyweight in history. He would make attempt three bites at the apple. Unfortunately for him, the Nightmare was never able to achieve that monumental goal. Ultimately, similar to Ruiz, living an undisciplined life outside the ring prevented him from competing at his full capacity within the ropes. As a result, he had to watch Ruiz make that history for himself, however short lived that it was.
The upcoming prizefight will stand as The Destroyer’s first outing since suffering his most devastating professional loss to WBA, WBO and IBF World Heavyweight champion Anthony “AJ” Joshua (24-1, 22 KO’s). After toppling AJ to claim his collection of titles, he lost them all in the immediate rematch. This colossal reversal of fortunes was both traumatic and transformative for Ruiz. In the aftermath he would go on to change trainers, rededicate his life to the sport and undergo a radical body transformation. Aside from being the favorite, there is a great expectation for Ruiz to perform in spectacular fashion on May 1.
THE NEXT BIG FIGHT?
Provided he is the victor on the day, Ruiz would like to stay busy and look to his next challenge. When speaking with Fight Hub TV, the Destroyer implied that he would like to face former heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (42-1-1, 41 KO’s) next.
“I think after this fight when we win, and god willing we become victorious, I just got to stay busy. You know, keep working hard and get ready for the next fight. I know Deontay Wilder is out there working really hard, looking good, he changed trainers as well. Every fighter needs to find their own way and wherever they’re comfortable you know…yep that would be a good fight.”
WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD?
There is no question that Ruiz versus Wilder would be an interesting match-up. Wilder is actually the third and final fighter to deny Arreola his chance to become a heavyweight world champion. At the moment, the Bronze Bomber’s future is uncertain. The Alabaman power puncher has been on the shelf ever since suffering his first professional loss to WBC World Heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (30-0-1, 21 KO’s). Wilder has made no secret that he wants his revenge match with Fury and to retake his world title. Sadly that bout remains in limbo. After repeatedly accusing the Gypsy King of cheating in a variety of ways, Fury vowed never to face Wilder again.
After making that statement, the WBC champion attempted to make an all-UK super fight with Anthony Joshua. Yet, after a great deal of bluster and promises from Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, the bout seems on the verge of complete collapse. In fact, one of Fury’s co-promoters, Bob Arum, is now claiming that team Fury is seriously contemplating taking on Wilder next. So it will be intriguing to see what become of this convoluted boxing triangle.
However the cards may fall, a Wilder versus Ruiz fight would be a fun night of fisticuffs for all. Yet, first The Destroyer must overcome Arreola or else all this wishing on star will remain just another session of flexing one’s imagination.
By: Bakari Simpson
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