Boxing: Ruiz Jr Cancels UK for the Rematch with Joshua
Andy Ruiz Jr has reacted to the allegations Dillian Whyte has failed a drug test by insisting he would not fight Anthony Joshua in the UK.
The three-belt world champion is due to finalise terms with Joshua this week, with their rematch expected to take place in Cardiff at the Principality Stadium.
Ruiz Jr has consistently pushed for the second fight to be held in New York again and news of Whyte’s reported failed drug test has riled the Mexican. Reports emerged on Wednesday night Whyte had failed a drug test just days before his fight with Oscar Rivas last Saturday.
Eddie Hearn was quick to respond to the claims, saying both Rivas and Whyte underwent extensive drug testing with Voluntary Anti-Doping Association and UK Anti-Doping Agency, and were cleared to fight.
Ruiz Jr hit out at Hearn and Joshua after hearing the news, saying: ‘I’m not going to the UK for the rematch.’ Joshua has not failed a drug test as a pro and his team have repeatedly referred to him as the most tested boxer in the world.
The former unified champion is signed up to UKAD’s whereabouts system, which opens him up to potential testing 365 days a year.
Joshua has final say on the venue for the rematch per the first fight’s contracts and Cardiff remains the favourite to host the heavyweight clash.
Whyte served a two-doping ban earlier in his career, but has always denied he knowingly took a banned substance.
Hearn did not deny the allegation Whyte had failed a drug test in his response on Wednesday.
He said: ‘Further to reports I can confirm that both Dillian Whyte and Oscar Rivas were subject to extensive VADA and UKAD testing for their bout. Both fighters were cleared to fight by both bodies and the BBBofC (British Boxing Board of Control).’
Whyte is 10-0 since his 2015 defeat to Joshua and officially became the mandatory to Deontay Wilder’s WBC belt on Saturday night.
read also: Joshua set to return to ring for Ruiz Jr. rematch – Hearn