Andy Ruiz Jr. signs multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing

Former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, ending a nearly two-year absence from the ring and marking a pivotal attempt to revive his career. The 36-year-old fighter, whose return bout is expected to be announced this week, is scheduled to compete on DAZN in early September.

The signing represents a significant partnership with promoter Eddie Hearn, who also promotes Anthony Joshua, the man Ruiz famously defeated in June 2019. In one of boxing's greatest upsets, Ruiz stopped Joshua at Madison Square Garden to claim the WBA, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles, becoming Mexico's first heavyweight champion. His reign was short-lived, however, as he lost a unanimous decision to Joshua in their rematch six months later in Saudi Arabia.

Since that second fight, Ruiz's career has been defined by inactivity. He has fought only four times in over seven years, securing wins over Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz before a majority draw with Jarrell Miller in August 2024. Promoter Eddie Hearn attributed the long layoff to a combination of injuries and personal issues outside the ring. Hearn expressed strong belief in Ruiz's...