Andy Ruiz Jr. is set to make one of his rare appearances next month against Jarrell Miller in a fight on August 3rd at the BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The former IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion Ruiz has been selected by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh to participate in what is anticipated to be one of the best events in the U.S. in years.
The 36-year-old New Yorker, Miller, is eager to add Ruiz's name to his resume to continue fighting on Turki’s cards. Miller needs this win more than Ruiz, who has made a significant amount of money from his fights against Anthony Joshua, Chris Arreola, and Luis Ortiz. The financial security Ruiz achieved from the Joshua fights might explain his inactivity, as he no longer needs to fight to live comfortably in Southern California.
Ruiz Jr. vs. Miller will be part of the undercard for Terence Crawford vs. Israil Marimov on ESPN+ PPV. This event provides a great opportunity for both heavyweights to gain attention from fans and secure their spots in future events organized by His Excellency. "I’ve never predicted a knockout, but if the knockout comes, it comes. I’m just here to win and become victorious," said Andy Ruiz Jr. about his upcoming fight against Jarrell Miller.
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Ruiz highlighted his motivation and hunger for success, stating, "The mission begins now, and I have to continue my legacy. I made history on June 1st [in 2019] against Anthony Joshua. I made mistakes, and I learned. I’ve been in my ups and downs with so many rollercoasters in life." Assuming Ruiz Jr. wins against Miller, he will need to stay active, fighting three to four times a year to get a chance against top contenders like Joshua or Tyson Fury before they retire.
Ruiz is aware of the challenges ahead, noting, "I think Jarrell Miller is the biggest test right now in front of me. I got to become victorious. I got to win this fight. I know it’s really important for both of us, and I believe we will have this victory. So right now, I just have to focus, train hard, and stay busy. I don’t want to fight, and then you don’t see me for two years. ‘What happened to Andy?’ But I want to be here for the long run."
Image Credit: DAZN