Ruiz Vs Joshua 3: Will There Be A Trilogy Fight?

The burning question on every boxing fan's mind: Will we ever see Andy Ruiz Jr. and Anthony Joshua face off for a third time? This is the showdown everyone wants to witness. The first two fights were nothing short of epic, filled with unexpected twists, shocking upsets, and displays of sheer grit. Let's dive deep into the possibilities, the challenges, and the likelihood of this trilogy bout actually happening.

The Saga So Far: A Quick Recap

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of a potential third fight, let's rewind and remember what made the first two encounters so memorable.

Fight 1: The Upset Heard Round the World

June 1, 2019. Madison Square Garden. Anthony Joshua, the undefeated unified heavyweight champion, was set to make his American debut against late replacement Andy Ruiz Jr. What was supposed to be a straightforward victory for AJ turned into one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. Ruiz, a heavy underdog, weathered an early storm, got knocked down, and then unleashed a furious attack that Joshua simply couldn't handle. Ruiz won by TKO in the seventh round, snatching Joshua's titles and shocking the world. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement. Ruiz proved that heart, determination, and a good pair of hands could overcome even the most physically imposing opponent. This fight immediately cemented its place in boxing lore, leaving fans clamoring for a rematch.

Fight 2: Redemption in the Desert

Six months later, in December 2019, the rematch took place in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. This time, Anthony Joshua came with a different game plan. He boxed smartly from a distance, utilizing his jab and movement to keep Ruiz at bay. Joshua was able to outbox Ruiz over twelve rounds, winning a unanimous decision and reclaiming his titles. While it wasn't the explosive performance some fans had hoped for, it showed Joshua's ability to adapt, learn from his mistakes, and execute a strategy under immense pressure. The rematch was a testament to Joshua's resilience and tactical acumen. The second fight was also great because it showed that both fighters could make changes to their styles, and it proved that the first fight wasn't just a fluke. Both fighters had something to prove and they both fought hard to get the win. Ultimately, Joshua was able to get the win, but it wasn't without a tough fight. However, it still left a lingering question: What would a third fight look like, with both fighters having a win under their belts?

The Roadblocks to Ruiz vs. Joshua 3

Okay, so everyone wants to see it, but what's stopping Ruiz and Joshua from stepping into the ring for a third time? Well, a few factors are at play.

Promotional and Managerial Hurdles

In the world of boxing, promoters and managers often have a huge influence on which fights get made. Both Ruiz and Joshua are with different promotional companies, which can make negotiations tricky. Getting everyone on the same page in terms of money, location, and timing can be a real headache. In the past, boxing has shown that promotional and managerial roadblocks can be overcome, but it's still a difficult task. Everyone needs to agree and be willing to negotiate in good faith.

Different Career Trajectories

Since their second fight, both boxers have taken different paths. Joshua has since faced Kubrat Pulev and Oleksandr Usyk (twice), losing his titles again to Usyk. Ruiz has been less active, with only a few fights since the rematch. Aligning their career goals and schedules can be difficult when they're both at different stages. It's like trying to merge two lanes of traffic when one car is speeding ahead and the other is cruising along. Right now, both are still active, but the clock is ticking.

The Heavyweight Landscape

The heavyweight division is always evolving. New contenders emerge, and existing champions seek out the biggest and most lucrative fights. With so many options on the table, Ruiz and Joshua might be tempted to pursue other opponents. Fights against Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, or even rising stars could prove more appealing, depending on the circumstances. Both Ruiz and Joshua need to think about what's best for their careers, and that might mean going in different directions. Also, it can be very exhausting preparing for a big fight, which can also influence their future choices. Sometimes it's not about who's the best, but who is willing to go through the training and sacrifices that are needed.

Why We Still Crave This Trilogy

Despite the obstacles, the demand for Ruiz vs. Joshua 3 remains strong. Here's why:

Unfinished Business

The first two fights created a compelling narrative. Each fighter has a win over the other, leaving a sense of unresolved tension. A third fight would be the ultimate tie-breaker, settling the score once and for all. For boxing fans, that's an irresistible proposition. It's like watching a great movie series where you need to see the final act to get closure. Plus, each fight was different and entertaining.

Styles Make Fights

Ruiz's aggressive, come-forward style clashes perfectly with Joshua's combination of power and boxing skill. Their fights are always exciting, unpredictable, and full of drama. You know that when these two step into the ring, you're going to get your money's worth. The constant threat of a knockout makes every round a must-watch event. The first fight showed Ruiz's power and the second fight showed Joshua's boxing ability. A third fight would be a great combination of both fighters trying to display their strengths.

The Human Element

Beyond the punches and tactics, both Ruiz and Joshua have compelling personal stories. They've overcome adversity, faced setbacks, and shown tremendous heart. Fans connect with their journeys, making their fights more than just sporting events; they're about human resilience and determination. These are the types of stories that make boxing so popular.

The Verdict: Will It Happen?

So, what's the final word? Will we see Ruiz vs. Joshua 3? Honestly, it's tough to say.

The Optimistic View

Never say never in boxing. If the money is right, the timing aligns, and both fighters are willing, anything is possible. The demand is there, and the potential for a huge payday could be a powerful motivator. Also, both fighters are still relatively young, which means they still have a few good fights left in them. The fans want to see this fight and that can put pressure on the promoters to make the fight happen. Ultimately, it comes down to whether everyone can come to an agreement that benefits all parties involved.

The Realistic View

The obstacles are significant. Promotional differences, career trajectories, and the allure of other big fights could all derail a potential trilogy. It's more likely that we'll see both fighters pursue other opponents in the near future. Both Joshua and Ruiz are big stars, so there will always be plenty of great options for them to choose from. Also, it can be difficult to get everyone to agree and both fighters have a lot of say on who they want to fight.

Final Thoughts

While the future is uncertain, one thing is clear: the legacy of Ruiz vs. Joshua will endure. Their first two fights were unforgettable, and the possibility of a third encounter will always linger in the minds of boxing fans. Whether it happens or not, we can always dream and discuss what might have been. Let's hope that the boxing gods are listening, and that we get to witness this epic trilogy someday!