Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz Jr both say they’re willing to face off in the ring – but the financial terms look set to stop it from happening.
After some positive steps and a contract sent, Ruiz Jr’s father criticised the terms proposed – specifically his son only receiving 30% of the purse.
Speaking to ES NEWS, Wilder’s trainer, Malik Scott, wouldn’t confirm the reported split in favour of his man, but did say that he was the A-side.
“I can’t comment on the exact numbers, but what I do know and what I will say is Wilder against Andy, to me, it shouldn’t be 50/50. People come in there to see can Deontay decapitate him how he’s done so many others. That right there sells itself.”
Both are former world champions, although Wilder held his belt for much longer – almost half a decade compared to Ruiz’s stint with the unified titles for all of six months.
Scott didn’t criticise Ruiz for looking for the best payday possible, but acknowledged that it could put an end to the talks.
“I understand Andy and them trying to fight for the good cause because in this noble art man you gotta get what you can get and get out.”
“Even if they don’t [find a way to make it happen] we got big things lined up. But the offer was sent. Andy replied in his own way, but the way we like people to reply is to not just say ‘let’s do it’ – sign the contract, the business is done, let’s get on with the promo, let’s get on with the fight, and then Deontay knocks Andy Ruiz out.”
With the fight targeted for early September at the latest, negotiations must progress quickly.
Should talks collapse, it will be the second time this year Ruiz has reportedly turned down an offer due to money – the first being a title shot against WBC Champion, Tyson Fury, according to the Brit’s promoters.