Wilder Vs. Ruiz Could Be In Doubt

The prospect of Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz Jr. competing for the WBC heavyweight title has been thrown into disarray.

On February 23rd, 2023, World Boxing News declared that Wilder vs Ruiz was becoming more likely because the latter had rejected the opportunity to fight for the interim IBF heavyweight championship against Filip Hrgovic. 

Instead, the Mexican had pulled out of a predetermined purse that had been made in favor of Hrgovic at 60-40. 

Evidently, the decision made by the Mexican was meant to indicate that Ruiz was only prepared to proceed with the Wilder eliminator.

ICYMI: Andy Ruiz Jr. left PBC so probably #WilderRuiz isn't next. According Jake Donovan Ruiz isn't going to fight Hrgovic either. IBF will sanction other fight for IBF Interim title #boxing pic.twitter.com/oHWgqGABih

— #MatiasPonce (@BatmanBoxing) February 24, 2023

However, Andy Ruiz’s father declared that his son had finished his contracts with Al Haymon and the PBC, making him a free agent. 

When Ruiz and his representatives initially negotiated his deal, the final bout was set to be against Wilder. However, Wilder has been dragging his feet since then, instead mentioning the possibility of facing ex-UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou.

Nevertheless, it may not be entirely over. Both parties may still accept the fight, as the WBC has mandated it. They may arrange things with another promotional company.

Ultimately, it could all come down to who offers the most lucrative proposal.