Andy Ruiz Jr: Where He Is From, KO of Anthony Joshua, Age & Net Worth

Andy Ruiz Jr is one of the most fascinating figures in modern heavyweight boxing. Known for his electrifying upset victory against Anthony Joshua in 2019, Ruiz has a compelling story of heritage, grit, and global recognition. This article explores his origin, boxing journey, landmark KO moment, age, estimated net worth, and current status in boxing.

Who Is Andy Ruiz Jr?

Andrés “Andy” Ruiz Jr. is an American-Mexican professional boxer who shocked the world by defeating one of the sport’s biggest stars, Anthony Joshua, to become the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent. Ruiz’s rise from humble beginnings to global fame is an inspiring story of determination and resilience. 

Where Is Andy Ruiz Jr From?

Andy Ruiz Jr was born on September 11, 1989, in Imperial, California, USA, in the Imperial Valley near the Mexico–U.S. border. 

Heritage and Early Life

• Nationality: Mexican-American — Ruiz identifies with both cultures and holds dual citizenship.

• Family Background: His parents emigrated from Mexico to the U.S., embedding deep Mexican heritage into his upbringing.

• Early Interests: Ruiz initially loved baseball before turning to boxing. His grandfather even ran a boxing gym in Mexicali.

• High School: He graduated from Imperial High School in 2007 and later worked in construction before fully committing to a boxing career.

His dual roots made Ruiz a symbol of pride for both American and Mexican boxing fans. 

Amateur Career

Ruiz had a stellar amateur career, compiling a record of 105 wins and just 5 losses under Cuban coach Fernando Ferrer. His quick hands and natural athleticism helped him win two Mexican National Junior Olympics gold medals and the Ringside World Championship. 

Although he attempted to qualify for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he narrowly missed the final cut. 

Professional Boxing Career

Rising Up the Ranks

Ruiz turned professional in 2009 and steadily climbed the heavyweight ranks. Known for his impressive hand speed and power despite not looking like a traditional heavyweight, Ruiz kept winning regional titles and building respect in boxing circles. 

Breakthrough: KO Over Anthony Joshua

Andy Ruiz Jr’s most iconic moment came on June 1, 2019, at Madison Square Garden in New York. In one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, Ruiz faced the undefeated Anthony Joshua, who was defending his WBA, IBF, and WBO heavyweight titles.

Against all odds, Ruiz took advantage of close-range volume punching and dropped Joshua multiple times before the fight was stopped in the seventh round by TKO — giving Ruiz all four heavyweight belts. 

This stunning victory instantly elevated Ruiz from contender to superstar, especially given Joshua’s dominance and popularity leading into the fight. 

 Rematch and Aftermath

Six months later, Ruiz and Joshua faced off again in a rematch in Saudi Arabia. Joshua regained the belts by unanimous decision after a disciplined performance and improved conditioning. 

Even though Ruiz lost the rematch, his knockout of Joshua remains a defining moment in 21st-century heavyweight boxing, reshaping listeners’ expectations of heavyweights and proving that upsets are still possible at the highest level. 

Andy Ruiz Jr Age & Physical Stats

As of 2025, Andy Ruiz Jr is 36 years old, having been born on September 11, 1989. 

Quick Facts

• Height: 6’2″ (1.88 m)

• Weight Division: Heavyweight

• Nickname: “The Destroyer”

• Fighting Style: Orthodox

Andy Ruiz Jr Net Worth

Career Earnings & Wealth

Andy Ruiz Jr’s estimated net worth is around $10 million, primarily from his boxing career, purses, and endorsement deals. His earnings skyrocketed after his major world title upset, reportedly earning around $7 million for the first Joshua fight and millions more in subsequent high-profile bouts. 

Some outlets suggest his net worth could range between $10 million and $20 million, depending on fight purses and compensation from rematches and promotional deals. 

Beyond the Ring

Ruiz has also gained lucrative endorsement opportunities and media appearances due to his global fame, which boost his brand and income outside direct fight earnings. 

What Is Andy Ruiz Jr Doing Now?

As of 2025, Ruiz has been focusing on recovery and training after a hand fracture and other injuries. He released gym footage showing that he’s staying in shape and preparing for future fights, possibly targeting big heavyweight names like Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, or Deontay Wilder when he fully returns. 

Though he hasn’t fought since August 3, 2024 (a draw against Jarrell Miller), Ruiz remains active in boxing circles and is anticipated to make a comeback. 

Legacy & Impact

Andy Ruiz Jr’s legacy is more than just one big win. He represents a breakthrough for Mexican and Mexican-American fighters at heavyweight — a division historically dominated by European and American athletes. His success challenges stereotypes about heavyweight physiques and showcases boxing’s global reach. 

FAQs

Where is Andy Ruiz Jr from?

Andy Ruiz Jr was born in Imperial, California, USA, to Mexican immigrant parents and identifies strongly with both American and Mexican heritage. 

How did Andy Ruiz Jr KO Anthony Joshua?

On June 1, 2019, Ruiz shocked the sporting world by defeating Anthony Joshua via seventh-round TKO at Madison Square Garden to claim multiple heavyweight titles. 

How old is Andy Ruiz Jr?

As of 2025, Andy Ruiz Jr is 36 years old (born September 11, 1989). 

What titles did Andy Ruiz Jr win?

Ruiz became the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion after beating Anthony Joshua in 2019 — becoming the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent. 

What is Andy Ruiz Jr’s net worth?

His estimated net worth is around $10 million, earned through his boxing career, fight purses, and endorsements. 

Is Andy Ruiz Jr still fighting?

As of late 2025, Ruiz has been recovering from injuries and training, with no confirmed scheduled fights yet, but he is expected to return to action. 

Conclusion

Andy Ruiz Jr’s journey — from Imperial Valley to global heavyweight stardom — is one of boxing’s most remarkable stories. His shock knockout of Anthony Joshua made sporting history and inspired millions. Now in his mid-30s, Ruiz continues to pursue greatness inside the ring, with fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter of “The Destroyer.”