LAS VEGAS (Nov 1, 2006) – Two-time world heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (41-6-1, 28 KOs) is training in Las Vegas with his new head trainer, Manny Siaca, Sr., for his November 18 mandated WBA elimination fight against No. 2 rated challenger Ruslan “White Tyson” Chagaev (21-0-1, 17 KOs) in Dusseldorf, Germany. The Ruiz-Chagaev winner will be the mandatory challenger for WBA heavyweight champion Nicolay Valuev..
The WBA No. 1 rated Ruiz promises fans will see a new and improved version against Chagaev, a southpaw from Uzebekistan now fighting out of Germany, the reigning WBA Intercontinental heavyweight champion.
“I’m learning new things from Manny,” Ruiz said. “I’m gradually moving into a new mode. I had leveled off. It hasn’t been since my stepfather trained me that I learned new boxing techniques and skills. I feel really good knowing that when I step in the ring I am bringing a different set of skills and a better mindset.
“Now I’m working with Manny to get away from being the old me. I’m not going to be lying back, waiting for the other guy, and just swinging away. We’re working on a new training method where I am now throwing punches and moving, not holding and waiting. But what’s really important, is that instead of talking about being the new me, I’m going to show everybody on November 18.”
Siaca has trained 23 world champions including his son, Manny Siaca, Jr., Edwin Rosario, Sammy Serrano, Leo Gamez and Eddie Mustafa Muhammad.
“John’s always had a good jab,” Siaca noted, “but now he’s throwing – bam, bam – four jabs and moving instead of throwing a jab and grabbing. He’s throwing punches in combinations. He’s fighting a southpaw, so things will be a little different. In the fight, John needs to move and throw. We’ll be ready for him. I really enjoy working with John. He’s a very decent and honorable guy who works hard. Johnny Ruiz will become the world heavyweight champion again. I’d bet my life on it.”