ANDY RUIZ JR and Chris Arreola are reportedly closing in on a fight to take place later this year.
The 30-year-old hasn’t fought since he lost his WBA, WBO and IBF belts in December when he was outpointed by Anthony Joshua.
Andy Ruiz Jr is looking to catapult himself back into world title contentionCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Meanwhile, Arreola, 39, has been out of action since his points defeat against Poland’s Adam Kownacki in August 2019.
According to The Athletic, the two Mexican-Americans have agreed a fight to face each other at the end of the year.
Both men are signed with Premier Boxing Champions, and it has been claimed the organisation just needs to finalise a broadcast date and venue.
Ruiz Jr will have new trainer Eddy Reynoso in his corner having dismissed Manny Robeles following the AJ loss.
The 33-2 boxer is looking in great shape after he showed off his slimmer look in a training video.
RU BEAUTY
It had been thought that Ruiz Jr was to face Manuel Charr after the WBA ‘regular’ champ stated that talks were set to take place.
But a fight against Arreola has always been in the works after the three-time world title challenger revealed negotiations have been held with Ruiz Jr.
Speaking in July, he said: “Yes, actually there’s been a couple of talks [about Ruiz Jr fight], but I’m not at liberty of saying anything right now.
“But they are looking fairly good. Looking very good. I’m actually very excited for that fight.
“I think that’s the only fight that looks promising for myself.”
Chris Arreola (left) hasn’t fought since losing to Adam Kownacki in August 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Before adding: “We’re both Californians, we’re both in the rankings, we’re both fan-friendly fighters and we’re both of Mexican heritage.
“We all know what Mexican fighters bring to the table. They bring non-stop excitement.
“We just come forward and we just love to fight. I think it will be a great fight between me and Andy.”
Usyk refusing to bulk up too much as he points to Andy Ruiz Jr’s weight vs Anthony Joshua
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
