Deontay Wilder versus Andy Ruiz is an intriguing heavyweight clash the likes of which aren’t often made in the division.
The two former world champions were ordered by the WBC last November to face off and determine who would be Tyson Fury’s next mandatory challenger, but talks never really progressed.
That’s changed recently, with ring rust beginning to threaten and Wilder looking to stay busy before a potentially mega end to the year.
His trainer, Malik Scott, recently said that Ruiz was one of the ‘main options’ for their next fight in late August or September, and Ruiz responded positively online.
Eddie Hearn – who is in talks with Saudi Arabia’s Skill Challenge Promotions for Anthony Joshua to face Wilder in December – does not believe the Ruiz fight happens.
Speaking to DAZN, the promoter said that Saudi would never allow it.
“No, I don’t see that. Listen, if Deontay Wilder is going to fight Anthony Joshua, he definitely ain’t fighting Andy Ruiz. don’t forget, we’re nearly middle of June, we’re coming up to July. AJ’s trying to fight August 12th, but we need to announce this week.
I don’t believe Wilder and Ruiz are gonna announce their fight anytime soon. Then, there’s no way that Saudi would let Wilder fight in the back end of August or September before he fights Anthony Joshua in December.
Subject to what Wilder does will Skill Challenge and Saudi Arabia, I’m actually not sure he’ll fight in the interim. But I do not believe it will be Andy Ruiz. Might be wrong, but I’d be very surprised if he took that fight before Anthony Joshua.”
Hearn knows the boxing businessmen in Saudi Arabia well, having staged both Joshua’s rematch with Ruiz and Oleksandr Usyk there in the past.
Wilder is rumoured to be officially signing with Skill Challenge, and it’s been made clear how highly the organisation regards his fight with Joshua.
Like most other fights in the heavyweight division, it’s coming to the point where the hype, rumours and talk must end and contracts signed.