Former unified world heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. is officially plotting his return to professional boxing, as of May 18, 2026, with a clear three-step roadmap to reclaim a world title. The 36-year-old Mexican-American fighter has not competed since his August 3, 2024, majority draw against Jarrell Miller at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Now fully recovered from a fractured right hand sustained in that bout, Ruiz confirmed he is seeking a path back to the top of the division through a series of structured contests.
Ruiz, who holds a professional record of 35-2-1 with 22 knockouts, has struggled for consistency since losing his unified titles to Anthony Joshua in December 2019. He has fought only three times in the subsequent five years, securing a record of 2-0-1 during that span. To correct this trajectory, he has reunited with trainer Manny Robles, the man who oversaw his historic upset of Joshua at Madison Square Garden. Robles stated the current situation is “now or never” for Ruiz to salvage his career at the elite level.
The veteran heavyweight’s strategy involves taking a tune-up fight before moving into a formal world title eliminator. This approach aims to shake off ring rust before pursuing the major belts currently held by the division’s champions. Ruiz expressed confidence in his physical standing, noting that as of late 2025, he was back in camp and feeling “mentally and spiritually” prepared. His last victory came in September 2022, when he defeated Luis Ortiz by unanimous decision in Los Angeles.
Strategic roadmap for a heavyweight championship return
Establishing momentum is central to the comeback plan outlined by Ruiz and his team. “I want to have a tune-up fight, I want to have an eliminator, and then I want a title shot,” Ruiz stated on May 16, 2026. This methodical climb back up the rankings is intended to prove he still belongs among the most dangerous boxers in 2026 despite his recent inactivity. He has expressed a desire to speak with Turki Alalshikh to secure these opportunities on major international cards.
Logistics for such high-profile bouts often involve significant promotional backing. Ruiz has already discussed the possibility of a trilogy fight with Anthony Joshua through promoter Eddie Hearn. Though no deal is in place, Ruiz believes he needs a few active performances before calling out the biggest names in the sport. His focus remains on the “Mexican style” of pressure and combinations that defined his 2019 championship run, away from the distractions that plagued his previous training camps.
His return draws interest from across the division, with Ruiz even commenting on rising prospects such as British heavyweight Moses Itauma. Ruiz described the young fighter as “a bad man” and “really dangerous,” highlighting that while he is focused on his own path, he remains observant of the shifting landscape. Success for Ruiz will require more than just eyeing the competition; it will demand the discipline Robles has vowed to enforce during their renewed partnership.
Overcoming physical hurdles and weight management concerns
Physical readiness was a major hurdle in Ruiz’s last performance against Jarrell Miller. During that contest, Ruiz weighed 274.4 lbs, whereas Miller tipped the scales at a massive 305.6 lbs. Miller outlanded Ruiz 183 to 113, aided partly by the fractured hand Ruiz suffered early in the fight. Recovery has been the primary focus in the months since, and Ruiz now insists his hands are “good” and ready for the rigors of a full training camp.
Weight has historically been a point of contention for Ruiz, who admitted he was underprepared and over his ideal weight for his 2019 rematch with Joshua. By returning to Robles, who emphasizes a “no excuses” environment, Ruiz looks to find the mobility that allowed him to stop Joshua in their first meeting. Fans in the UK and US can expect to see his future bouts distributed via DAZN PPV, which has become a primary broadcaster for major heavyweight clashes.
While some have suggested crossover bouts, such as a potential fight with Jake Paul, Ruiz has largely dismissed these as unlikely. He indicated that while such a match would likely end within three rounds due to his pressure, his real ambition lies in the heavyweight title ranks. He is currently waiting for confirmation on his first opponent of this new campaign, with hopes that a return date will materialize as he continues his work in the gym.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of Andy Ruiz Jr’s last fight?
Andy Ruiz Jr.’s last fight was a 12-round majority draw against Jarrell Miller on August 3, 2024, at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Two judges scored the bout 114-114, while the third judge favored Miller with a score of 116-112.
Who is Andy Ruiz Jr’s current trainer?
Andy Ruiz Jr. has reunited with his former trainer, Manny Robles. Robles previously guided Ruiz to the unified heavyweight championship in 2019 before the pair split following the rematch loss to Anthony Joshua.
What is Andy Ruiz Jr’s plan for his next fights?
Ruiz has outlined a three-step plan for his comeback: first a tune-up fight, followed by a world title eliminator, and finally a shot at a heavyweight championship. He has not yet officially confirmed an opponent or date for his return match.
