Anthony Joshua defeats Andy Ruiz Jr. via unanimous decision to reclaim heavyweight titles

Defending champion Andy Ruiz Jr., right, during his fight against Britain's Anthony Joshua in their World Heavyweight Championship contest at the Diriyah Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Nick Potts/PA via AP)
Anthony Joshua got his redemption. Only it may have not been as impressive as he wanted it to be. Joshua regained the unified heavyweight title on Saturday in Saudi Arabia as he won a unanimous decision over Andy Ruiz. 

Regarded as a power puncher, Joshua played it safe this time as he fired his jab to circle out of danger. He chose not to engage Ruiz, who seemed like he wasn't fighting with urgency. 

Anthony Joshua defeats Andy Ruiz Jr. via unanimous decision

Joshua reclaimed the IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight title belts after being upset by Ruiz in June in New York. Ruiz knocked out Joshua in seven rounds in that fight.

This time around was different as Joshua now respects Ruiz's power and played it safe this time. Ruiz came in 15 pounds heavier at 283 pounds which showed as he struggled to move around and get into punching range. 

Judges scored the bout for Joshua 118-110 twice and 119-109. 

Joshua jabs his way to victory

“Man, the first time was so nice, I had to do it twice,” Joshua said. Ruiz had a few moments where he threw and landed hard punches but he was repeatedly unable to cut off the ring and only managed to trail Joshua around the ring. 

The two fighters were cut near the eyes early in the fight but the blood didn't play a factor in the outcome. Joshua simply took advantage of his longer reach advantage. He also worked all summer on his jabs for this fight. 

Ruiz comes in overweight

Ruiz came in at 283 pounds which he admits was a huge mistake. “I didn’t prepare how I should have,” Ruiz said. “I gained too much weight,” he added.

It showed as Ruiz wasn't quick enough or explosive enough bother Joshua despite already proving he can knock his opponent out. Ruiz said he wanted a rubber match which Joshua was open to having.

The only problem thing standing in the way is the highly anticipated Feb. 22 rematch between WBC champion Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury. The winner of that fight will most likely get Joshua next.


Did Joshua get the retribution he seemed? Was Ruiz's first win a fluke? Who between Wilder and Fury will be a better match for Joshua? We'd love to hear your thoughts.

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