Andy Ruiz Jr will defend his world title against Anthony Joshua in December 7 in Saudi Arabia. The Mexican champion believes his rematch with the former Olympic Games champion won’t go the same was as their first fight.
“I have a lot of respect for Anthony, outside the ring he is a very good man. But inside [the ring] there are no friends, there is no respect or anything,” Ruiz said.
“It will not be an easy fight. I think it will be a hard fight, but nothing is easy in life, so we are training very hard. We will be prepared for whatever he brings,” Ruiz added.
Ruiz, who has held the IBO, IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight title since June 2019, destroyed Joshua inside the sevenths round at MSG in New York. He is now looking very slim at his camp.
“I will arrive in better condition. Lighter, faster and more powerful. They will believe that in December they will win. People will always talk like this, but I have faith that we’re going to win and shut up more mouths.” Ruiz said.
IOC will allow pros to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo but Ruiz has refused for taking part in the competition. He wished to do more to help the next generation stand a better chance to get into boxing ring.
“It’s not for me, professional boxing is where I am. It’s better for me to give the opportunity to other kids who have that dream of going to the Olympic Games,” Ruiz said.
Joshua, meanwhile, he warned Ruiz that he will only be the champion back until they meet once again in Saudi Arabia.
“I feel I was up against a good challenger at the time and, as I mentioned [before the fight], I was only champion until June 1.” Joshua said.
“As Andy’s champion right now, that will only last until December 7. Until he has to put his titles in the air, two warriors go to war and the best man will walk out victorious.” Joshua added.
