Joshua 'hungry, determined and focused' ahead of Ruiz rematch
Joshua said: "We are about to turn this into something special. We have a great undercard, a great show. I went to the venue and it is perfectly designed. I will walk in with confidence and I want everyone to feel the confidence that I will."
But Ruiz Jr is not ready to give up the belts he won on June 1. "I made my dreams come true and made history," he said. "I appreciate the supporters I have. I was surprised by how many fans I have here. I'm ready to rock and roll.
"I know AJ will come with a different game plan and is prepared and more motivated. I know he will try to box me around, but it's my job to prevent that.
"I don't want to let these beautiful belts go away. I will die trying and do anything that is possible to get that victory."
The decision to stage the fight in Saudi Arabia was met with criticism given the country's human rights record. Promoter Eddie Hearn revealed the original plan was for the rematch to take place in Cardiff, but admitted: "The passion to host this fight in Saudi Arabia was unquestionable."
Andy Ruiz Sr promised his son would deliver for a second time. He said: "We're going to make history. Don't miss the fight. He will come with the best preparation and on that night my son will be victorious." Joshua's trainer Rob McCracken is positive the Londoner will show how good he is this weekend. He said the mood heading into the rematch was totally different to how it was in the summer. McCracken added: "Anthony's in a much better place than last time. We will see the real Anthony Joshua on December 7."