Despite a WBC ruling for Deontay Wilder to face Andy Ruiz Jr in a final eliminator for a shot at the title, Wilder’s team have been discussing what they consider a better option.
Andy Ruiz, who became the first Mexican heavyweight champ in history, is fighting his way back to the top of the division after he lost his belts in an immediate rematch with Anthony Joshua. He’s coming off an impressive win over Luis Ortiz, and wants nothing more than to become two-time champion.
Wilder is also a former king of the division. The heavyweight from Alabama held the WBC belt for five years before suffering two consecutive stoppage defeats to now-champion, Tyson Fury.
Despite having a clear path laid out for a shot at his old title, as well as a fourth fight with Fury, Wilder’s team have made it public that they would like to negotiate a fight with Joshua instead.
Mauricio Sulaiman, WBC’s President, told Pro Boxing Fans that it was ultimately Wilder’s decision.
“Well, that’s their decision that they are in for business. We have a ruling and Wilder has been a WBC Champion for five years. A great role model, a personal friend, and I hope that he has a great future in the ring. He deserves the best and I like him very much. We’ll see what happens.”
As for what missing out on the fight would do for Andy Ruiz, who is currently ranked number two, he refused to present an alternative at this stage.
“We don’t speculate. So once there’s a situation that happens, then we can rule and act on it.
Should the opportunity be passed down to the WBC’s number three, Cuba’s Frank Sanchez could potentially be one fight away from a world title shot.
Having said that, fans have reason to believe that Wilder and Joshua’s negotiations – should it even reach that stage – may not be plain sailing, meaning the Ruiz fight still has a high chance.