Andy Ruiz Jr. showed off a new physique at a FOX taping earlier this week, and the boxing world went into a frenzy. However, the scales told a different story.
“The Destroyer” actually weighs the same as he did for the first Anthony Joshua fight in June 2019 despite an expected loss of poundage.
Andy Ruiz Jr weight
He hit a marker just above 268. Ortiz came in at 245.
However, Ruiz has packed on muscle, which could be a telling factor in his battle with old warhorse Luis Ortiz.
Before the Pay Per View, Ruiz, and his trainer discussed the Premier Boxing Champions event.
“I feel great. It means so much to be fighting in Los Angeles. To fight in front of all of my fans and supporters – I’m just ready to go,” said Ruiz.
“Everyone who supports me is my motivation to keep going. If this ends in a knockout, it ends in a knockout. My only goal is to be victorious.
“I’m in shape to go twelve hard rounds. We’ll go in there and leave it all in the ring.”
On his new physique, Ruiz added: “I’m proof that anything is possible if you work hard and stay disciplined.
“The main thing right now is just accomplishing our goal Sunday night and leaving the ring with my hand raised.”
Optimal shape
Ruiz’s Trainer Alfredo Osuna, alongside a new strength and conditioning coach, is responsible for the transformation, said: “We’re ready to face off against Luis Ortiz and give every fan the fight they want to see on September 4.
“Andy is in optimal shape. He couldn’t be doing any better. The best part of this training camp is his happiness and discipline. He is as dedicated as he’s ever been.
“We know Luis Ortiz is a dangerous opponent who deserves all our respect. But not only did he have those two losses, but they were also both by knockout.
“That’s what we’re aiming for.”
On the fighting talk from Luis Ortiz’s trainer in the build-up, Osuna added: “Herman Caicedo can say whatever he wants about me and Andy’s chemistry.
“I’ve been doubted before and proved everyone wrong. If he says, I don’t have enough experience with Andy. He’s got an open invite to come out and work with us, and we’ll show him the vibe we have on Team Ruiz.”
Giving his predicted ending, Osuna concluded: “There’s a very high percentage chance that this fight ends in a knockout.
“We’re prepared for anything, but we’ll see what happens. My message for the fans is to come out because it will be a war.
“This is the kind of fight that people love to see.”
Tickets for the live event, which TGB Promotions promote, are on sale now and can be purchased online at AXS.com.
Ruiz vs Ortiz Pay Per View
Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. faces the hard-hitting top contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz.
They prepare to square off in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event this Sunday, September 4, from Crypto.com Arena.
The event also featured exciting top lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and fellow Mexican and veteran Eduardo Ramirez.
They battle in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event.
Also, three-division world champion Abner Mares and Miguel Flores duel in a ten-round attraction.
Unbeaten rising star Jose Valenzuela will take on the Dominican Republic’s Edwin De Los Santos in the telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Valenzuela was to face Jezreel Corrales. He got forced to withdraw due to visa issues.
WBN Editor Phil has over ten years of boxing news experience. Follow WBN on Facebook @officialworldboxingnews and Twitter @worldboxingnews.
