Nigerian-born boxer, Anthony Olaseni Oluwafemi Joshua (AJ) has been hit with another cloud of doubt over his scheduled rematch with his conqueror, Andy Ruiz Jnr,. As the Mexican-American is against the decision to have to bout hold in Saudi Arabia.
Megasportsarena.com can report that, after surprisingly losing the heavyweight title to Ruiz June 1, during his debut in God’s Own Country, ‘AJ’ will get a chance to win back the title in December in Riyadh on December 7, but the shock champ wants a different venue.
The world is already waiting in expectation of the big rematch, but 29-year-old Ruiz has spoken out against the choice of Saudi Arabia and says he would rather see the bout hold in the United States.
A report by ESPN reveals that Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn confirmed on Wednesday that the fight will “absolutely” take place in Saudi Arabia, meaning there is not much Ruiz can do about it.
The report adds that, while Ruiz would prefer to fight in either the United States or Mexico, it does not appear he will get his way, due to a pre-June 1st fight agreement between both camps.
It is further noted that Ruiz could choose not to fight, though he would face repercussions if he goes down that road and, if he is inactive for too long, he risks forfeiting the title.
ESPN added: “Ruiz signed a deal that allowed Joshua’s team to pick the location, date and many other details of the rematch. This is not uncommon in boxing.
“As is typical in boxing, when a non-mandatory challenger receives a title shot, he almost always has to agree to a rematch clause and pre-determined terms for that rematch in the event that he wins.
“So, in his initial agreement, Ruiz’s purse for a potential rematch in case he won was already specified — around $9 million, according to sources — as was the acknowledgement that Joshua’s side would control the event, meaning the site, the date, the location, any broadcast deals, etc.”