Andy Ruiz Jr. calls for trilogy fight with Joshua

Former heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2-1, 22 KOs) says he would like to have a third, “decisive” fight against Britain’s Anthony Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) and believes now is the perfect time.

The two fought twice in 2019. First, Ruiz sensationally knocked Joshua out in the seventh round, before losing the rematch on points six months later.

It is worth noting that Ruiz has not competed since August 2024.

“I think we definitely need to have a trilogy with AJ,” he said. “His life changed after we fought, and so did mine. I beat him, and he beat me in the rematch only because I let him. I let him hit me in the second fight because I was an idiot — I should have taken that fight much more seriously. I’m not going to force it or push for it, but I think it would be a good comeback fight for both of us. But I will definitely beat him, 100 percent.”

Ruiz emphasized his desire to make up for the loss in the rematch.

“I weighed almost 136 kg, I was out of shape, and I still went all 12 rounds,” Andy noted. “That’s why I think people didn’t see the best version of me in that fight. I also underestimated him and didn’t take the fight seriously. Yes, it was my fault, but is redemption possible? Can we turn things around? Can we become champions again? Yes, we can. You just have to believe and keep working — my time will come.”