Joshua reclaims world titles with masterclass
BOXING: Anthony Joshua has reclaimed his world heavyweight crown from Andy Ruiz, outclassing him yesterday to score a unanimous points win.
Joshua, who in June suffered a stunning knockout loss to Ruiz in New York, produced a masterclass to regain his IBF, WBA and WBO titles. Dominating from the outset, Joshua won 118-110 on two scorecards and 119-109 on the other.
Billed the ’Clash on the Dunes’, Saudi Arabia’s first world heavyweight title fight was staged in a purpose-built, open-air arena at Diriyah, on the outskirts of the capital.
The final scores in no way flattered Joshua, who frustrated his heavier opponent with superb movement and picked him off relentlessly with his jab.
Joshua, badly stung by his loss to Ruiz at Madison Square Garden, was ecstatic after clinching a onesided win.
“The first time was so nice, I had to do it twice,” he said after becoming a two-time world heavyweight champion.
The 2012 Olympic champion revealed he had adapted his style after his loss to Ruiz in June, when he got drawn into a slugfest before being floored four times on his way to the first loss of his career.
“I’m used to knocking guys out and last time I realised that I hurt the man but I got caught coming in,” said Joshua, who improved to 23-1, 21 by KO.
“I just wanted to put on a great boxing masterclass tonight and also show the sweet science of this lovely sport. It’s about hitting and not getting hit.”
Ruiz admitted he had prepared poorly for the rematch.
“It was his night, man,” the Mexican-American said. “I didn’t prepare as I should of, I gained too much weight. But I don’t want to make excuses. He won – he bossed me around.”