Six Years Since Ruiz Shocked The Boxing World At Madison Square Garden

One of the most spectacular upsets in heavyweight history occurred on June 1, 2019, according to the boxing community.

A little-known Andy Ruiz Jr. entered the ring as a late replacement at Madison Square Garden in New York City and defeated the overwhelming favourite Anthony Joshua in the seventh round to emerge as the world's undisputed heavyweight champion. 

Pundits and fans alike gave Ruiz little chance because he had entered the contest on short notice after Jarrell Miller failed several drug tests. Joshua's muscular body, Olympic background, and perfect record contrasted sharply with his physique, modest manner, and lack of popular awareness.

However, Ruiz's hand speed, durability, and self-belief more than made up for his lack of physical attributes. As many had anticipated, Joshua knocked down the opponent in the third round to start the fight. The conflict appeared to be about to end. But to everyone's surprise, Ruiz not only stood up but also turned the tables right away. He drastically changed the momentum in his favour by flooring Joshua twice before the round ended. Ruiz took total control by the eighth round.

Joshua's undefeated streak came to an end when the referee waved the bout off after two more knockdowns, making Ruiz the first Mexican-American heavyweight world champion. The fallout was as dramatic. Although Ruiz's reign was brief, he was praised across the world. With a focused, strategic effort in the rematch six months later in Saudi Arabia, Joshua regained his championships. 

Later, Ruiz acknowledged that his preparation was impacted by distractions and celebrity. The memory of that night at the Garden, however, lives on. Ruiz's triumph continues to serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of boxing and the notion that underdogs can overcome the odds on any given evening. Fans were reminded of the reason they watch the sport during that moment. Six years later, June 1 is remembered as a pivotal day in contemporary boxing history, when Andy Ruiz Jr. stunned the world and cemented his legacy in the sport's history.