Andy Ruiz Jr signs with Matchroom Boxing, eyes September return

Former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr has signed a promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing and could return to the ring in September against Damian Knyba, according to Bad Left Hook.

Ruiz, who shocked Anthony Joshua to claim the IBF, WBA, and WBO belts in 2019, has fought just three times since losing the rematch later that year. The 36-year-old Mexican went 2-0-1 in that stretch but struggled to recapture the form that made him a champion, settling for a contentious majority draw against Jarrell Miller in his most recent outing two years ago.

Ruiz targets world title run under Eddie Hearn

"I'm so happy and thankful for signing with Matchroom and taking other step forward to continue my mission and to become a two-time champion of the world for Mexico," Ruiz said in a statement. "I believe everything happens for a season and I'm so grateful God is giving me a second opportunity to do everything right."

Mike Coppinger reports that Ruiz is being lined up to face Knyba on the Vito Mielnicki Jr vs Ammo Williams card scheduled for Sept. 4 in Newark. Knyba, who holds a 17-1 record with 11 knockouts, dropped a disputed third-round stoppage to Agit Kabayel in January.

Ruiz is back with longtime trainer Manny Robles for this latest chapter. Whether the volatile heavyweight can find consistency at 36 in a division now shaped by Oleksandr Usyk's undisputed run remains the central question.

Reported via:

• Bad Left Hook — Andy Ruiz Jr joins Matchroom Boxing, could face Damian Knyba in September