Could Andy Ruiz Jr.'s victory over Anthony Joshua be considered one of the greatest upsets in boxing history? A bold statement indeed, but the evidence speaks for itself. On June 1, 2019, Ruiz Jr., an underdog at odds of 10-1 or 11-1, stunned the world by defeating the then-reigning heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, in New York City's Madison Square Garden. This monumental win not only secured Ruiz Jr.'s place in boxing lore but also brought significant financial rewards to him and his family. With a $7 million paycheck and a $10,000 betting windfall, Ruiz Jr.'s triumph was nothing short of extraordinary.
Ruiz Jr.'s journey to the top of the heavyweight division was far from conventional. Born on December 4, 1989, in Imperial, California, he grew up in a modest household with his parents and siblings. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his career, Ruiz Jr. persevered, eventually earning the opportunity to challenge Joshua for the WBA, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles. The fight took place in front of a packed audience at Madison Square Garden, where Ruiz Jr. delivered a performance that left fans and analysts alike speechless. His victory was not just a personal achievement; it marked a historic moment as he became the first Mexican-born fighter to claim a major heavyweight championship.
| Bio Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Andy Ruiz Jr. |
| Date of Birth | December 4, 1989 |
| Place of Birth | Imperial, California, USA |
| Nationality | Mexican-American |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Weight | Heavyweight |
| Career | Professional boxer |
| Professional Debut | 2009 |
| Titles Won | WBA, IBF, WBO Heavyweight Champion |
| Notable Wins | Anthony Joshua (2019), Dominic Breazeale (2016) |
| Official Website | andyruizjr.com |
The financial implications of Ruiz Jr.'s victory were substantial. In addition to his $7 million purse, his family reportedly won $10,000 from bets placed on his success. This unexpected windfall highlighted the unpredictability of boxing and the potential rewards for those who dare to believe in the underdog. The Guardian reported that Ruiz Jr.'s earnings were significantly higher than what he had previously received, underscoring the transformative nature of his victory. For a fighter who had been offered only $1 million for his previous bout, the $7 million payout represented a remarkable leap forward in his career.
In the aftermath of the fight, several Las Vegas bookmakers admitted to taking significant losses due to Ruiz Jr.'s upset victory. The majority of the money wagered had been placed on Joshua, making Ruiz Jr.'s win even more surprising and lucrative for those who bet on him. This event underscored the importance of understanding the dynamics of betting in professional sports, where outcomes can defy expectations and lead to substantial gains for those who correctly predict the underdog's success.
As Ruiz Jr. prepared for the rematch against Joshua in December 2019, held in Saudi Arabia, the stakes were higher than ever. Reports indicated that the total purse for the second bout would exceed $60 million, with Joshua expected to earn significantly more than Ruiz Jr. However, despite the disparity in earnings, Ruiz Jr.'s confidence remained unwavering. He expressed his belief in his ability to retain the titles, emphasizing his determination to prove himself once again on the global stage.
While Joshua entered the rematch with a reported purse of around $60 million, Ruiz Jr.'s compensation was estimated to be approximately $10 million. This figure was still a considerable improvement over his initial earnings, reflecting the growing recognition of his talent and potential as a heavyweight contender. The rematch itself proved to be a thrilling contest, ultimately resulting in Joshua reclaiming his titles. Nonetheless, Ruiz Jr.'s earlier victory ensured his legacy as one of the most memorable figures in modern boxing history.
Looking ahead, Ruiz Jr.'s future in the sport remains bright. With a proven track record of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness, he continues to inspire fans around the world. His journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. As one of the highest-paid heavyweights in 2025, Ruiz Jr.'s name is frequently mentioned alongside other boxing legends, solidifying his status as a formidable force in the sport.
In conclusion, Andy Ruiz Jr.'s victory over Anthony Joshua was more than just a boxing match; it was a defining moment in the history of the sport. It showcased the unpredictable nature of professional boxing and highlighted the potential for underdogs to achieve greatness. Ruiz Jr.'s story is one of resilience, determination, and triumph, reminding us all that anything is possible with the right mindset and effort. As he continues to compete at the highest levels, his legacy will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future generations of boxers to pursue their dreams with passion and conviction.
