Andy Ruiz Jr. has signed with Matchroom Boxing in his latest effort to reignite a career that has stalled since his 2019 rematch loss to Anthony Joshua, with a potential return to action targeted for September against Damian Knyba, per Bad Left Hook.
Ruiz Jr., 36, issued a statement confirming the signing.
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. I believe everything happens for a season and I’m so grateful God is giving me a second opportunity to do everything right. I made history with Matchroom and DAZN and best believe we are going to do it again in God almighty’s name. Thank you to all my coaches for still believing in me, we are going to make a big statement in the heavyweight division.
Ruiz, 35-2-1 with 22 knockouts, has fought just three times since his title loss to Joshua, going unbeaten in those outings but without distinguishing himself. He was dropped early against a faded Chris Arreola before winning, edged Luis Ortiz by decision despite scoring three knockdowns, then drew with Jarrell Miller two years ago. He is reuniting with trainer Manny Robles for this campaign.
Per Mike Coppinger, a September 4 return against Knyba on the Matchroom card headlined by Vito Mielnicki Jr. vs. “Ammo” Williams in Newark is being discussed. Knyba, 17-1, lost a contested third-round stoppage to Agit Kabayel in January.
