Andy Ruiz Jr. is slowing coming to terms with becoming the first man to halt the progress of Britain’s Anthony Joshua on Saturday night.
The 29 year-old became the first world heavyweight champion of Mexican descent when dropping Joshua four times in a shock win.
Ruiz is now slated for a rematch with Joshua later this year and believes he can repeat the feat, even in the UK.
Andy Ruiz Jr
“When I was walking to the ring Saturday night, everyone was booing me,” Ruiz told the Boxing Writers Association of America’s Joseph Santoliquito in an interview for Premier Boxing Champions.
“Once I won, they were cheering for me. Everyone is cheering for me. You’re talking to someone who used to be laughed at when I was younger. It made me stronger. I can laugh. And I think I can stop (Joshua) again.”
Going from an also-ran contender to unified title holder in the blink of an eye, Ruiz has had to adjust accordingly to his new status.
“It is weird. I have to get a little used to this, where everywhere I go, people know me,” he said. “I was unpacking my car and everyone that came by was saying, ‘Hey champ, great job champ!’ I’ve been stopped on the street.
“I’ve been stopped everywhere I go. I was putting some stuff in my car yesterday. People just driving by were yelling, ‘Hey champ, is that you champ.’
DAVID vs GOLIATH
“People were coming out of their homes to take pictures with me. I’ll be honest, I love it. I’m someone who’s been doubted my whole life. No one thought I was going to beat (Joshua). Let’s be honest, no one. But man, this whole thing has been a blessing and incredible.”
“I still have to get used to all of this attention.
“This is really about David beating Goliath. My whole life I’ve had people call me ‘fat’ and I’ve had the doubters and that’s okay.
“This has always been my dream. I showed what I could do on June 1. Everything paid off,” Ruiz added.
