Andy Ruiz Jr. vs. Anthony Joshua II - 7 December 2019

[Ruthless-RKO]

[fizzjambo]

Finally got round to watching The Untold Truth all the way through.

Complete gibberish from start to finish. Anna Woolhouse looked completely dumbfounded at some points.

The last fleeting glimpse of brand AJ before he completely disappears up god own arsehole? He came across as someone whose heid is absolutely fucked trying to keep up the marketable image everyone has been telling him to peddle for the last seven years. A bizarre watch

[tobyh5]

I've noticed that Team AJ has gone very quiet for the last two weeks. Twitter and Insta silent except one post for two weeks now. Maybe knuckling down and getting on with work for once or maybe another clever reverse marketing ploy to appear that way to try and repair some brand damage.

[Enlightened-One]

Apologies if this is old news, since I’ve only just seen this, but Andy Ruiz Jr. appears to have lost a lot of weight:

Before:


After:


Apparently Ruiz Jr. is hoping to face AJ around the 254lb mark, which is 14lbs less than what he weighed for their first fight, but this photo suggests that he might already be well below that target weight.

[tobyh5]

Yeah so I'd not be changing anything.

Why change something which won the fight? Impossible to know what affect each element had on the victory

[stujones]

Well I guess that is one way to stop the rumours that he is enjoying himself and partying.... although off course there are ways to burn off the calories and still party like bejesus.

Boxing is one of those funny sports in which sometimes it isn't a good thing (I say sometimes) to look the part. So many horror stories of "rounded" heavyweights cutting weight but losing something. I do actually fear that Ruiz might be one of those.

I'd certainly be more inclined to go to the bookies for a AJ by KO bet now.

[ewenhay]

Yeah so I'd not be changing anything.

Why change something which won the fight? Impossible to know what affect each element had on the victory

He's obviously taking things seriously. Which is a positive on his part.

He's faster than Joshua who also looks like he might come in lighter this time around. I'd assume Ruiz wants to come in low to maintain those advantages

[tony1234]

So I doubt any tickets or travel for this fight are ever going to go on sale here ?

[ewenhay]

Well I guess that is one way to stop the rumours that he is enjoying himself and partying.... although off course there are ways to burn off the calories and still party like bejesus.

Boxing is one of those funny sports in which sometimes it isn't a good thing (I say sometimes) to look the part. So many horror stories of "rounded" heavyweights cutting weight but losing something. I do actually fear that Ruiz might be one of those.

I'd certainly be more inclined to go to the bookies for a AJ by KO bet now.

Why? Because Ruiz looks fitter than last time? I'd imagine he wants to maximise his speed advantage.

[Ruthless-RKO]

Boxing fans from around the world can flock to the biggest fight of the year – the Clash on the Dunes in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia – to support their heroes Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua after the Kingdom launched new super-fast tourist visas.

Boxing fans from around the world can flock to the biggest fight of the year – the Clash on the Dunes in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia – to support their heroes Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua after the Kingdom launched new super-fast tourist visas.

On December 7, in the UNESCO heritage site of Diriyah – known as the land of kings and heroes – Anthony ‘AJ’ Joshua will attempt to recapture belts taken from him by Andy ‘Destroyer’ Ruiz Jr in Diriyah Arena, a purpose-built arena for 15,000 fans on the night.

Tickets for this incredible showdown go on sale this Sunday, October 13, at 9pm KSA time (10pm in UAE, 7pm in the UK and 2pm US) and are available at www.diriyahseason.sa.

It will be the first-ever World Heavyweight Title fight ever to be staged in the Middle East and forms part of the month-long ‘Diriyah Season’, a spectacular season of world-class sport, global entertainment, and culture, officially launched on Sunday night at a glittering ceremony in the ancient city, the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia on the outskirts of Riyadh.

This follows the announcement in recent days that travelers from 49 countries across the world can now secure 90 day tourist visas online in just seven minutes to attend the festival. For more information got to visa.visitsaudi.com.

Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said: “This is the biggest boxing match on the planet, and it will be taking place in one of the most unique venues ever.

“We already know there is a great passion for boxing in the Kingdom, but AJ and Andy will want their fans to come and support them, from across the region and from the UK and the US and Mexico.

“It’s great news that these tourism visas have been launched, that’s a big step forward for the country and it means that boxing fans wherever they are can come witness an unmissable night. This fight will go down in history as one of the greats.”

Due to the unique venue, being staged outside of the UK or the US, the fight has already seen parallels drawn in the media to some of the most iconic fights in history, such as Muhammad Ali’s fights against George Foreman – “the Rumble in the Jungle” – and Joe Frazier – the “Thrilla in Manila”.

Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki AlFaisal Al Saud, Chairman of the GSA, said: “We have already seen the energy created by boxing when we staged the World Boxing Super Series match last year, this landmark moment – the first World Heavyweight Title fight in the Middle East – now takes that excitement to a whole new level.

“Athletes and audiences can expect to be knocked out by the passionate reception this event will enjoy in the Kingdom, and now, with the launch of tourism visas for 49 countries, it has never been easier for fans from around the world to come be part of history.”

HH Prince Khaled bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Chairman of SCEE, said: “This is a historic moment for Saudi Arabia welcoming the first World Heavyweight Championship. As a nation we have started to pave the way for becoming a global player in the sports and entertainment industry and we have witnessed a real appetite for the boxing sport.

“This is the biggest boxing fight that has taken place in the region to date and we are bringing it to Saudi Arabia on December 7 – the world is watching us and we promise to deliver an unparalleled experience. SCEE are a proud partner of the GSA bringing Clash on the Dunes to Diriyah Season, 2019.”

Tickets for all of Diriyah Season’s spectacular events and entertainment will be available online at www.diriyahseason.sa with Formula E Tickets on sale now, Clash On the Dunes tickets on October 13, and Diriyah Tennis Cup on October 26. Tickets for other events as well as season long tickets will be announced soon. Follow Diriyah Season’s news and announcements on the official social media pages on twitter and Instagram @diriyahseason.

[stujones]

Well I guess that is one way to stop the rumours that he is enjoying himself and partying.... although off course there are ways to burn off the calories and still party like bejesus.

Boxing is one of those funny sports in which sometimes it isn't a good thing (I say sometimes) to look the part. So many horror stories of "rounded" heavyweights cutting weight but losing something. I do actually fear that Ruiz might be one of those.

I'd certainly be more inclined to go to the bookies for a AJ by KO bet now.

Why? Because Ruiz looks fitter than last time? I'd imagine he wants to maximise his speed advantage.

It might adversely affect his own strength, snap and punch resistance. Has he done lost the weight correctly.

I just remember when small heavies tried to cut down the weight it just made them "rubbish" with no snap or authority - Chris Byrd and Eddie Chambers being two recent examples. Danny Williams (whilst I disagree with him) was adamant that him cutting resulted in inferior performances - and yes we can remember that he just seemed to lose everything between Skelton 1 and Harrison 2 (where he was 20 lbs lighter) - his punch resistance seem to go with the extra weight loss and he had no snap. Roy Jones post John Ruiz another example. Even the discussion has been on Tyson Fury's last performance - did he cut for the sake of cutting.

I think people forget the first 3 rounds of fight 1. AJ was controlling it and he hurt Ruiz and then got careless. It wasn't a lucky shot but I am not sure AJ will be as careless again.

[tobyh5]

Why? Because Ruiz looks fitter than last time? I'd imagine he wants to maximise his speed advantage.

It might adversely affect his own strength, snap and punch resistance. Has he done lost the weight correctly.

I just remember when small heavies tried to cut down the weight it just made them "rubbish" with no snap or authority - Chris Byrd and Eddie Chambers being two recent examples. Danny Williams (whilst I disagree with him) was adamant that him cutting resulted in inferior performances - and yes we can remember that he just seemed to lose everything between Skelton 1 and Harrison 2 (where he was 20 lbs lighter) - his punch resistance seem to go with the extra weight loss and he had no snap. Roy Jones post John Ruiz another example. Even the discussion has been on Tyson Fury's last performance - did he cut for the sake of cutting.

I think people forget the first 3 rounds of fight 1. AJ was controlling it and he hurt Ruiz and then got careless. It wasn't a lucky shot but I am not sure AJ will be as careless again.

This is a lot of what was in my mind when I posted concern on the weight loss. This is more in-depth than I had considered but I find myself nodding at it. I am not saying it is the case, but that it strikes me that it may well be the case.

As I simply said - why change anything when it all worked so well (and I am not in the camp which suggests AJ was in control and got careless and took one shot. The clues where there in those first three rounds and traps where being set. A guy on Twitter put a series of videos together which is a good watch
- extra videos in the comments section below this initial one
"

[ewenhay]

Why? Because Ruiz looks fitter than last time? I'd imagine he wants to maximise his speed advantage.

It might adversely affect his own strength, snap and punch resistance. Has he done lost the weight correctly.

I just remember when small heavies tried to cut down the weight it just made them "rubbish" with no snap or authority - Chris Byrd and Eddie Chambers being two recent examples. Danny Williams (whilst I disagree with him) was adamant that him cutting resulted in inferior performances - and yes we can remember that he just seemed to lose everything between Skelton 1 and Harrison 2 (where he was 20 lbs lighter) - his punch resistance seem to go with the extra weight loss and he had no snap. Roy Jones post John Ruiz another example. Even the discussion has been on Tyson Fury's last performance - did he cut for the sake of cutting.

I think people forget the first 3 rounds of fight 1. AJ was controlling it and he hurt Ruiz and then got careless. It wasn't a lucky shot but I am not sure AJ will be as careless again.

Fair enough Stu. Good reasoning there.

I feel Ruiz can afford to lose a bit, especially as I expect Joshua to come in lighter too.

We'll find out soon enough!

[Ruthless-RKO]

Construction begins on 15,000-seat stadium in Saudi Arabia which will host Anthony Joshua's rematch with Andy Ruiz Jnr... less than eight weeks before Brit goes in search of revenge

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxin ... match.html

Construction has begun on the 15,000-seater stadium which will host Anthony Joshua's blockbuster rematch against Andy Ruiz Jnr in Saudi Arabia.

The heavyweights will renew their rivalry on December 7 in a Gladiator-style, three-sided temporary venue in Diriyah.

The Diriyah Arena is being built especially to host the high-profile rematch and work has now begun on its construction with little under two months to go until fight night.

Work is underway here in Diriyah! December 7 is going to be something special #RuizJoshua2 pic.twitter.com/PdTWCZ10Ch
— Frank Smith (@Frank_1_Smith) October 15, 2019

Matchroom released footage on Wednesday showing construction getting underway on the UNESCO heritage site.

The foundations of temporary stands were seen on one side of what is set to be the ring, with a large shell of what appears to be the stage area housing changing rooms, VIPS and TV studios opposite.

[JC]

After:


Apparently Ruiz Jr. is hoping to face AJ around the 254lb mark, which is 14lbs less than what he weighed for their first fight, but this photo suggests that he might already be well below that target weight.

I believe that photo is from an ad campaign so don’t read too much into it. It may have been heavily photoshopped etc: defo looks like it has been on his face, or maybe it’s male-up. It’s also posed to make him look slimmer.

But who knows.

[ALI]

Apologies if this is old news, since I’ve only just seen this, but Andy Ruiz Jr. appears to have lost a lot of weight:

Before:


After:


Apparently Ruiz Jr. is hoping to face AJ around the 254lb mark, which is 14lbs less than what he weighed for their first fight, but this photo suggests that he might already be well below that target weight.

14lbs to a fatso like him is nothing, he carries that sort of weight around in his left tit. He could lose 30 lbs and would still have fat flabbing everywhere. If he was to get truely into shape with no flabby fat, maybe a bit of muscle on display around his trunk, he would be fighting at cruiserweight.

[polecateddy]

I imagine Joshua's anxiety levels will be rising at this. He probably hoped he would be facing a Buster Douglas v Holyfield version of Ruiz.

[MasterG]

Joshua is using Albon Pervizaj as sparring partner. Is there any significance in Pervizaj as preparation for Ruiz?

[Controversial]

Apologies if this is old news, since I’ve only just seen this, but Andy Ruiz Jr. appears to have lost a lot of weight:

Before:


After:


Apparently Ruiz Jr. is hoping to face AJ around the 254lb mark, which is 14lbs less than what he weighed for their first fight, but this photo suggests that he might already be well below that target weight.

14lbs to a fatso like him is nothing, he carries that sort of weight around in his left tit. He could lose 30 lbs and would still have fat flabbing everywhere. If he was to get truely into shape with no flabby fat, maybe a bit of muscle on display around his trunk, he would be fighting at cruiserweight.

Deceiving photo, baggy black t-shirt and arms up. Still packing some serious fat.

[MightyWarrior]

Does anyone know where AJ is training at the moment is he in the UK? I heard something about he was in Africa...Anyone know?

[Ruthless-RKO]

[Ruthless-RKO]

Alexander Povetkin vs Michael Hunter confirmed for AJ bill

Povetkin vs Hunter on same bill as Ruiz Jr-Joshua rematch on December 7, live on Sky Sports Box Office

Alexander Povetkin collides with Michael Hunter in an explosive heavyweight clash on the same bill as Anthony Joshua's huge rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr.

Joshua aims to regain the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight belts from Ruiz Jr on December 7, live on Sky Sports Box Office, with three more major fights confirmed ahead of the massive main event in Saudi Arabia.

Former world champion Scott Quigg also faces Jono Carroll in a super-featherweight showdown, while there is more heavyweight action when the highly-rated Filip Hrgovic meets Eric Molina.

Dangerous Russian veteran Povetkin will add another significant victory to his résumé if he can dispatch Hunter following his recent points victory over Hughie Fury.

"Hunter is a strong, highly ranked boxer," said Povetkin. "I think it will be a good and interesting fight. I'm not going to make any plans for the next year, first I have to go through this fight against Hunter, but I would definitely like to box for a world title."

Former cruiserweight Hunter has already beaten two Russians in Alexander Ustinov and Sergey Kuzmin, and now enters his toughest test as a heavyweight.

"I look at this fight with Povetkin as my 'gold medal' fight," said Hunter. "I was in the Olympics and so was he, he won the gold medal and I didn't, so this is basically my gold medal fight right here. I am always pushing for the KO.

"I thrive on making guys quit, so I'm definitely going to push for it. I am a boxer first though and I'm certainly going to be boxing his shoes off. If I see any quit in him, then I am going to take advantage of that."

Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn said: "Three great fights for what is the boxing event of the year!

"The world will stop on December 7 to watch Andy Ruiz Jr versus Anthony Joshua 2 - and now they have more mouthwatering action to whet the appetite.

"Povetkin against Hunter is a brilliant match-up, with both men looking for a crack at a world heavyweight title in 2020. Unbeaten Filip Hrgovic makes his first step up against former world title challenger Eric Molina.

"In a thrilling domestic battle, Scott Quigg takes on Jono Carroll in what will be a high paced all-action war. There's more to come soon on a night that will go down in history."

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: "Anthony Joshua's rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr will capture the attention of the boxing world - and we have an action-packed bill ahead of a massive main event.

"Expect fireworks when Alexander Povetkin is pitted against Michael Hunter, a fearless American contender, while Croatia's Filip Hrgovic will be keen to show why he is considered the dangerman in the top division.

"The exciting duo of Scott Quigg and Jono Carroll should also guarantee a frenetic encounter on a momentous night for AJ as he attempts to regain his world heavyweight titles."

[tony1234]

Something going on in Saudi after the WWE show last night, most of the wrestlers and crew are still there. Nobody seems to know why or not telling if they do know ?

Maybe this could affect this too ?

[oogiebe]

Something going on in Saudi after the WWE show last night, most of the wrestlers and crew are still there. Nobody seems to know why or not telling if they do know ?

Maybe this could affect this too ?

I read it is a problem with the plane and they are chartering another flight.

[Ruthless-RKO]

Something going on in Saudi after the WWE show last night, most of the wrestlers and crew are still there. Nobody seems to know why or not telling if they do know ?

Maybe this could affect this too ?

I read it is a problem with the plane and they are chartering another flight.

I guess some may not make it to appear on Smackdown tonight then..