​Andy Ruiz Jr. is returning to the spotlight with Matchroom Boxing. On Wednesday, the promotional company announced that the former unified heavyweight champion has signed a multi-fight deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, marking a significant reunion with the promoter who first helped him ascend to boxing’s biggest stage. Ruiz’s comeback bout, set to be shown live on DAZN, is expected to be confirmed later this week, with details to follow.
This move signals a reunion with the promoter who played a pivotal role in Ruiz’s ascent to the pinnacle of the sport. Matchroom previously guided Ruiz to the most remarkable victory of his career when he defeated Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden in June 2019, becoming Mexico’s first heavyweight world champion by taking the WBA, WBO, and IBF titles in a historic stoppage. The win not only crowned Ruiz as a world champion but also etched his name into boxing lore as a hometown hero who toppled a dominant champion on the global stage.
Ruiz (35-2-1, 22 KOs) has not fought since August 2024, when he went the distance with Jarrell Miller in a matchup that ended in a majority draw in Los Angeles. Now 36, Ruiz has returned to the gym under the guidance of his longtime trainer Manny Robles, the same coach who worked his corner against Joshua in those pivotal moments. In a statement, Ruiz expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m so happy and thankful for signing with Matchroom and taking another step forward to continue my mission and to become a two-time champion of the world for Mexico.” His words underscore a renewed sense of purpose and ambition as he looks to reassert himself in the heavyweight division.
Ruiz’s father and manager, Andy Ruiz Sr., framed the deal as a return to the partnership that helped deliver the most memorable night of his son’s career. By rejoining Matchroom, Ruiz is reconnecting with the team that played an essential role in shaping his early career trajectory and who were instrumental in guiding him to the heights he reached in 2019. For Hearn, the partnership represents a chance to add a motivated, seasoned challenger to a heavyweight landscape that has been in constant flux. He described Ruiz as a dangerous, versatile opponent who poses substantial difficulties for any rival currently competing in the division when he is in peak form and physically prepared.
At this stage, no opponent or exact date has been announced for Ruiz’s next appearance. However, Matchroom has indicated that more information will be released within the week, including potential opponents and the arrangement for a highly anticipated return. The heavyweight division has seen a year of reshuffles, with titles and contenders moving in and out of dialogue as new matchups emerge and old rivalries reemerge. Ruiz’s comeback adds another name to a crowded field, one that could significantly shake up the strategic dynamics at the top of the division if he returns to form and can translate his skill set into victories against top-tier opposition.
The signing signals more than just a promotional alliance; it marks a new chapter in Ruiz’s boxing narrative as he seeks to reclaim a world title. The fanbase in Mexico and among boxing enthusiasts worldwide remains keenly interested in Ruiz’s trajectory, given his history of high-stakes, high-impact performances and his ability to draw attention to events and venues with his dynamic fighting style and compelling life story. As he resumes active training and gears up for his next challenge, Ruiz will be watched closely to see how quickly and effectively he can return to peak performance levels after a period away from the ring.
In sum, Andy Ruiz Jr.’s return to Matchroom Boxing sets the stage for a potentially transformative chapter in his career. With renewed motivation, a trusted coaching team, and the backing of a promoter who helped him achieve one of the sport’s most memorable triumphs, Ruiz is positioned to reestablish himself as a top contender in the heavyweight division. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as More details—such as the opponent, date, and venue—are unveiled in the coming days, eager to see whether Ruiz can once again rise to the occasion and offer an entertaining, competitive path back toward heavyweight glory.