Boxing fans around the world were left in shock on June 1, 2019, when Andy Ruiz Jr. defeated Anthony Joshua in what is now considered one of the biggest upsets in boxing history. The heavyweight clash, which took place at Madison Square Garden, was expected to be another routine victory for Joshua, the then-undefeated heavyweight champion. However, Ruiz had other plans, delivering a knockout that would change the course of both fighters’ careers forever.
### The Build-Up to the Fight
Before the fight, Anthony Joshua was regarded as one of the most dominant heavyweights in the sport. With a flawless record and multiple world titles under his belt, he was seen as the clear favorite. Originally, Joshua was set to fight Jarrell Miller, but Miller was disqualified due to failed drug tests. This opened the door for Andy Ruiz Jr., a fighter who was underestimated due to his unconventional physique and lack of mainstream recognition.
Ruiz, however, was no amateur. With a solid boxing background, quick hands, and a hunger for victory, he stepped up to the challenge with confidence. While many fans and analysts doubted his ability to compete with Joshua, Ruiz remained determined to prove them wrong.
### The Fight Night: A Shocking Turn of Events
The match started as expected, with Joshua looking strong and composed. In the third round, Joshua landed a powerful punch that sent Ruiz to the canvas. It seemed like the fight was heading towards another routine win for the British champion.
However, what followed next was nothing short of extraordinary. Ruiz got back up and, instead of retreating, launched a ferocious attack on Joshua. With incredible hand speed and precise counterpunching, Ruiz knocked Joshua down twice in the same round. The crowd at Madison Square Garden was stunned—this was not what they had expected.
As the fight progressed, Joshua struggled to recover. Ruiz continued his relentless assault, displaying agility and power that many had underestimated. By the seventh round, Ruiz landed another devastating combination that sent Joshua to the mat for the fourth time. The referee had seen enough and stopped the fight, declaring Andy Ruiz Jr. the new heavyweight champion of the world.
### The Aftermath: A New Era in Boxing
The victory made Ruiz the first-ever Mexican heavyweight champion in boxing history, an achievement that resonated deeply with fans worldwide. His unexpected triumph was a testament to the unpredictability of boxing and the idea that underdogs can rise to the occasion.
For Joshua, the loss was a massive setback. Many questioned his preparation, strategy, and mental state going into the fight. Critics pointed out that he seemed unprepared for Ruiz’s fast hands and aggressive style. Some speculated that he had underestimated Ruiz, leading to his downfall.
Despite the defeat, Joshua remained composed and professional, giving credit to Ruiz and promising to come back stronger.
### The Rematch: Joshua’s Redemption
Six months later, on December 7, 2019, Joshua and Ruiz met again in a highly anticipated rematch in Saudi Arabia. This time, Joshua had learned from his mistakes. He came into the fight leaner, more focused, and determined to regain his titles.
Unlike the first bout, Joshua utilized his reach advantage and fought strategically, keeping Ruiz at a distance. He avoided unnecessary exchanges and stuck to his game plan, outboxing Ruiz for twelve rounds. In the end, Joshua secured a unanimous decision victory, reclaiming his heavyweight titles and restoring his reputation as a top fighter in the division.
### Legacy of the First Fight
Despite Joshua’s redemption in the rematch, the first fight remains one of the most shocking moments in boxing history. It showcased the unpredictable nature of the sport and proved that no fighter is invincible.
For Ruiz, the victory solidified his place in boxing history. Though he struggled with discipline and conditioning after becoming champion, his upset win over Joshua will always be remembered as one of the greatest underdog stories in sports.
### Conclusion
The knockout of the century was more than just a fight; it was a defining moment in boxing. Andy Ruiz’s victory over Anthony Joshua sent a powerful message to the world: in the ring, anything is possible. Whether you’re an underdog or a reigning champion, boxing is a sport where dedication, strategy, and resilience can lead to the most unexpected outcomes. This fight will forever be remembered as a testament to the spirit of competition and the heart of a true champion.