Andy Ruiz Jr, Luis Ortiz Face-Off, Ortiz Promises Knockout

Andy Ruiz Jr and Luis Ortiz met for the first time on Wednesday.

The two heavyweights had their first face off at a Los Angeles press conference to preview their WBC heavyweight world title eliminator on September 4 at the Crypto.com Arena.

Ortiz, 43, is predicting he’ll win by knockout.

“This fight is going to end in a knockout. I’m sure Andy thinks the same thing. This one isn’t going to go 12 rounds,” Ortiz said.

As for Ruiz, he said he’s not taking the fight lightly.

“I think this is a similar fight for me to the Anthony Joshua fight; it’s just that he’s a lefty,” Ruiz said.

“We have a great team, and we’re working hard. September 4 is going to be a hell of a fight.

“This might not go the distance, but I’m prepared to go all 12 rounds. We’re going to get this victory no matter what on September 4.”

The winner of the matchup could be next in line for WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, though he’s insisted that he’s retired.

The undercard will also feature Mexico’s Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz against contender Eduardo Ramirez in the co-main event.