The former unified heavyweight champion reunites with Eddie Hearn’s promotion as Matchroom prepares to announce his comeback opponent this week
Andy Ruiz Jr. has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, setting up an unexpected reunion with the company he stunned by knocking out Anthony Joshua in 2019. Matchroom says the former unified heavyweight champion’s comeback fight will be announced later this week.
The promoter revealed the signing on X before issuing a press release confirming Ruiz’s comeback will air live on DAZN.
The move reunites Matchroom with the man who produced one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight history. In June 2019, Ruiz stopped Anthony Joshua in the seventh round at Madison Square Garden to capture the WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight titles, becoming the first Mexican heavyweight world champion. Joshua regained the belts in their rematch six months later in Saudi Arabia.
Ruiz has boxed only three times since losing the rematch, defeating Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz before fighting Jarrell Miller to a majority draw in August 2024. The 36-year-old has not fought since but is now preparing for his return after reuniting with trainer Manny Robles, who was in his corner for the 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.”
Ruiz also expressed confidence that he can recreate the success of his first stint with the promoter.
“I made history with Matchroom and DAZN, and best believe we are going to do it again. Thank you to all my coaches for still believing in me. We are going to make a big statement in the heavyweight division.”
Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn believes Ruiz remains a dangerous opponent despite his inactivity.
“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.”
Ruiz’s next opponent has not yet been announced, but Matchroom says details of his comeback fight will be revealed this week. The signing gives the promotional company another established heavyweight name and an opportunity to find out whether Ruiz can revive a career that has stalled since his memorable championship victory over Joshua seven years ago.