Andy Ruiz Jr. recently disclosed details about previously stalled negotiations for a potential fight with Oleksandr Usyk. The former unified heavyweight champion revealed that Usyk’s team had approached him before a matchup with kickboxer Rico Verhoeven was finalized. Ruiz mentioned he knows Usyk’s manager from their younger sparring days at Freddie Roach’s gym.
Ruiz Explains Usyk’s Shift to a Kickboxing Showdown
In an interview, Andy Ruiz Jr. explained how the opportunity to fight Usyk slipped away, with Usyk opting to face Verhoeven instead. Ruiz stated that Usyk’s team contacted him about a potential fight in the United States. He attributed Usyk’s decision to a more lucrative offer for the fight in Egypt against Verhoeven.
The May 23rd bout in Giza pits Usyk’s WBC and lineal heavyweight titles against Verhoeven, who has limited professional boxing experience, having competed in over 60 kickboxing matches. Usyk, with an undefeated record of 24 professional fights, is an Olympic gold medalist and a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion. His last fight was a knockout victory over Daniel Dubois last summer. Verhoeven, known as the “King of Kickboxing,” is recognized for his striking power, evident in his dominant performances.
Andy Ruiz Jr. on Failed Usyk Negotiations Before Verhoeven Fight
While Ruiz favors Usyk to win the upcoming fight, he acknowledged Verhoeven’s striking capabilities, citing videos of his bag work and past fights. Ruiz believes Usyk’s experience and boxing skill will be advantageous, especially if Verhoeven cannot utilize his full range of kickboxing techniques.
“Usyk should win,” Ruiz commented. “He’s an experienced fighter. He’s the champion. He’s the undisputed heavyweight champion. But I heard a lot of people saying for him to be careful against Verhoeven. He’s no joke.”
Ruiz expressed his interest in a future fight with Usyk, envisioning a bout with broad appeal. He anticipates a technical opening to the fight, followed by a focus on body shots, which he believes could be a decisive factor.
“At first, it would be a technical fight to get our distance and assess the countering, but I think I would stop him,” Ruiz stated. “I would stop him in the body because he doesn’t like getting hit in the body.”
Ruiz plans to have tune-up fights this year, aiming for a significant opponent by December to re-establish his standing. Usyk, meanwhile, has chosen his path to continue his reign as the undisputed king.