Andy Ruiz Jr, the first fighter of Mexican descent to win the world heavyweight championship, is attempting another comeback at age 36. His stunning 2019 upset victory over Anthony Joshua remains one of boxing’s greatest underdog stories.
The California-born Ruiz, known as the ‘Mexican Rocky,’ has reunited with his original trainer for what may be his final shot at heavyweight glory. Seven years ago, Ruiz was a late replacement opponent who stepped in on five weeks’ notice as an 11-1 underdog against the undefeated Joshua at Madison Square Garden.
KEY FACTS
- Andy Ruiz Jr became first Mexican-descent heavyweight champion by defeating Anthony Joshua in 2019
- Ruiz won as an 11-1 underdog after being summoned as replacement on five weeks’ notice
- The victory came at Madison Square Garden with Joshua eventually stopped in seventh round
- Ruiz earned a $10m guarantee for the Joshua rematch
- Now 36, Ruiz has reunited with his original trainer for comeback attempt
From Underdog to Overnight Sensation
Ruiz’s improbable victory turned him into an instant celebrity. After knocking down Joshua four times before the referee stopped the fight, Ruiz was celebrated as a border-straddling hero in his hometown of Imperial, California. He made numerous late-night TV appearances and even met with Mexico’s president.
Can History Repeat Itself?
At 36, Ruiz faces longer odds in his comeback attempt. His 2019 win brought sudden wealth and fame, including luxury cars and celebrity attention. The question now is whether Ruiz can recapture the form that made him champion, this time with more preparation but against younger opponents in an evolving heavyweight division.
WHAT WE KNOW — AND WHAT WE DON’T
Verified by the source:
- Ruiz won heavyweight title as late replacement in one of boxing’s biggest upsets
- He was 11-1 underdog against undefeated Joshua
- Victory made him first Mexican-descent heavyweight champion
Still unconfirmed:
- Exact details of Ruiz’s current training regimen
- Who his next opponent might be
- Whether he can sustain another title run at 36
WHY IT MATTERS
Ruiz’s story resonates because it embodies boxing’s enduring capacity for dramatic underdog triumphs. His 2019 victory proved that preparation and opportunity can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. His comeback attempt at 36 tests whether that magic can be recaptured.
WHAT TO WATCH
Boxing fans will monitor Ruiz’s performance in upcoming fights to see if he still possesses the speed and power that dethroned Joshua. A strong showing could position him for another title shot in the heavyweight division.