How much do you think a heavyweight boxing champion earns in a single fight? A staggering $60 million is the estimated purse for Anthony Joshua versus Andy Ruiz Jr. rematch, held in Saudi Arabia. This astronomical figure does not even include Joshua's expenses or tax payouts, but it clearly underscores the lucrative nature of professional boxing at its highest level. The bout saw Joshua attempting to reclaim his WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight titles from Ruiz Jr., who had previously dethroned him.
The world of professional boxing is filled with tales of financial triumphs. Among these stories, Andy Ruiz Jr.'s journey stands out as one of the most remarkable. In 2025, Ruiz Jr. was ranked among the top five highest-paid heavyweight boxers. His biggest payout came when he shockingly defeated Anthony Joshua, earning a substantial $7 million. This victory not only cemented Ruiz's place in boxing history as the first Mexican to win a major heavyweight championship but also significantly boosted his earnings. Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua remains the highest-earning heavyweight boxer ever, boasting career earnings surpassing $250 million.
| Bio Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andy Ruiz Jr. |
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1989 |
| Place of Birth | Culiacán Rosales, Sinaloa, Mexico |
| Nationality | Mexican-American |
| Professional Career Start | 2009 |
| Highest Payout | $7 million (against Anthony Joshua) |
| Notable Titles | WBA, IBF, WBO Heavyweight Champion |
| Reference | Boxing News 24 |
Despite his significant achievements, Ruiz Jr.'s career has faced scrutiny and questions about consistency. In forums like Reddit's r/boxing community, discussions have emerged questioning his future fights. Some suggest pairing him against fighters like Francis Ngannou, who needs more experience before facing all the top contenders. Ruiz Jr.'s potential opponents could include Zhang Zhilei, Hrgovic, or Joyce, depending on how his career progresses. Regardless, Ruiz continues to be a pivotal figure in the heavyweight division.
In addition to his main bouts, Ruiz Jr. participated in several other notable fights. For instance, in a match against Luis Ortiz, Ruiz earned a reported purse of $1 million for the 12-round showdown. Although this amount is considerably lower than his previous payouts, it still highlights his standing in the sport. Similarly, in another fight against Chris Arreola, Ruiz topped the list of fighters with a purse of $1 million, while Arreola received $300k. These figures reflect the disparity in earnings within the sport based on fighter reputation and match significance.
Ruiz Jr.'s unexpected victories have not only brought him personal wealth but also benefited his family. When Ruiz Jr. triumphed over Anthony Joshua, his family reportedly won $10,000 from betting on his success. Such wins are rare and highlight the unpredictable nature of boxing. Ruiz Jr.'s ability to surprise opponents and audiences alike has been a defining characteristic of his career.
Terence Crawford, another prominent figure in boxing, also contributed to the discourse around fighter purses. According to the California State Athletic Commission, Crawford received a purse of $2.5 million for his fight against Israil Madrimov, who received $750,000. Isaac Cruz was another fighter to receive a seven-figure purse. These details reveal the financial dynamics within professional boxing, showcasing how different fighters command varying levels of compensation based on their status and performance.
While Ruiz Jr. enjoys a lucrative career, the broader landscape of boxing finance includes many factors influencing payouts. Nevada’s decision to stop disclosing fighter pay added complexity to tracking these numbers. However, organizations like the California State Athletic Commission continue to provide insights into fight purses, ensuring transparency in some areas of the sport.
Ruiz Jr.'s career trajectory demonstrates the highs and lows inherent in professional boxing. From his historic victory over Joshua to subsequent matches that garnered significant attention, Ruiz Jr. remains a key player in the heavyweight division. His story illustrates the challenges and rewards associated with achieving greatness in the ring, making him an enduring figure in the annals of boxing history.
As Ruiz Jr. continues to compete, his legacy grows, influenced by both his successes and setbacks. Each match adds another chapter to his storied career, contributing to the rich tapestry of professional boxing. With each fight, Ruiz Jr. not only vies for personal glory but also shapes the future of heavyweight boxing, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Looking ahead, Ruiz Jr.'s potential matchups promise to deliver excitement and intrigue. Whether facing seasoned veterans or rising stars, his presence in the ring ensures captivating contests that resonate with fans worldwide. As the heavyweight division evolves, Ruiz Jr.'s contributions remain vital, reflecting the dynamic nature of professional boxing.
In conclusion, Andy Ruiz Jr.'s career encapsulates the essence of professional boxing: a blend of skill, determination, and unpredictability. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers and a testament to the sport's enduring appeal. Through every match, Ruiz Jr. reinforces the notion that anything is possible in the world of heavyweight boxing, where dreams can be realized, and legacies forged in the blink of an eye.
