Why does a boxer pray for his rival’s downfall? In a recent twist in heavyweight boxing, Andy Ruiz Jr., the former titlist, experienced a rare moment of schadenfreude. Ringside in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, he witnessed Joseph Parker’s surprising victory over Deontay Wilder.

Known for their bitter exchanges, Ruiz’s satisfaction with Wilder’s defeat was palpable. This unexpected turn of events opens new possibilities in the heavyweight division. Ruiz, once a dominant figure, now eyes potential rematches. His career, somewhat stalled since the 2019 Anthony Joshua rematch, might reignite. But would AJ be the one to reignite it?

Ruiz’s satisfaction over Wilder’s fall

Deontay Wilder, known for his formidable punching power, faced a surprising setback against Joseph Parker. This result directly impacts the dynamics of potential matchups, particularly involving Andy Ruiz Jr.

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Ruiz, who has openly expressed his frustration over a failed matchup with Wilder, found an unexpected source of gratification in Parker’s triumph. Ruiz’s reaction to Wilder’s defeat was unfiltered and candid. In an interview with iFL TV, he said, “I was actually praying for Joseph Parker, I wanted him to win.” This sentiment underscores the tension between the two fighters.

He further elaborated, “I wanted him to beat the sh!t out of Wilder because he was talking sh!t.” Ruiz’s words reflect not only a personal grudge but also a broader narrative within the heavyweight boxing community. His remarks signify a shift in his focus, now possibly looking beyond Wilder for his next challenge.

Ruiz, still a significant figure in the division despite a recent slowdown in his career, emphasized his readiness for future bouts. “He talked so much sh!t to everybody saying he’s gonna knock this guy out, that guy out, and I was super happy with Joseph Parker, man,” he continued. This statement not only highlights his satisfaction with the fight’s outcome but also hints at his eagerness to re-establish himself as a heavyweight contender.

Andy Ruiz wants the rematches done!

Shifting the focus to his own future in the ring, Andy Ruiz Jr. eyes potential rematches that could redefine his career trajectory. “He beat me the first time,” Ruiz said, referring to his earlier bout with Joseph Parker. “I know it wasn’t like a real [defeat], but he beat me over there in his hometown and I wouldn’t mind running it back.”

The prospect of a rematch with Parker isn’t the only scenario playing in Ruiz’s mind. The possibility of reigniting his rivalry with Anthony Joshua also looms large. Their history is charged – Ruiz’s unexpected triumph in their first encounter and Joshua’s comeback in the rematch have already marked a significant chapter in heavyweight boxing. Ruiz openly contemplates this potential trilogy. “I just want to see if AJ wants to run it back, get the trilogy, maybe not,” he muses.

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His eagerness to revisit past battles and settle scores is clear, setting the stage for what could be a series of electrifying rematches. Will Ruiz’s renewed vigor lead him back to the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing, or are there new twists awaiting in this pugilistic saga? What do you think lies ahead for Andy Ruiz Jr. in this next chapter of his career?

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