In a situation World Boxing News has followed closely since first breaking the news of a possible fight in Saudi Arabia, the Andy Ruiz Jr. v Anthony Joshua rematch is close to being completed.
WBN initially understood the fight could be done and dusted by Friday, which may still be the case if final talks run smoothly.
If negotiations hit any last-minute snags, Ruiz v Joshua is likely to be made official next week.
At this moment in time, there are dates in November and December on the table.
Saudi Arabia is the frontrunner to host, with Wales still a viable option if Joshua can persuade Ruiz the Principality Stadium is a neutral venue.
A hush had drawn over promoter Eddie Hearn in recent days. It’s a strong indication that the Matchroom boss is doing all he can to get the fight over the line at the earliest opportunity.
There are currently just over thirteen weeks left until the first potential date in November, meaning there remains a week or two of wiggle-room.
Joshua is already in camp for the return, which he says will be his redemption.
Ruiz, who shocked AJ on June 1st in New York, was hopeful of landing home advantage in Mexico. This scenario has all but been ruled out.
At present, only Wales and Saudi Arabia are being considered to stage this week.
Rumors of Dubai or anywhere in the United Arab Emirates are just speculation at this point.
Anywhere in the United States and Joshua’s home city of London are currently off the table.
WBN has been informed only Saudi Arabia has ever been in the running from the Middle Eastern region.
A lucrative offer was made to stage what will be the biggest heavyweight fight of 2019.
It’s something Hearn, DAZN and Sky Sports couldn’t ignore when it came out of the blue last month.
TIMELINE OF EVENTS
AUG 6th – Saudi Arabia becomes a massive possibility
6th – Odds plummet from 28/1 to odds on Saudi Arabia
6th – Wales remains on the table at Joshua’s request
7th – Only two venues left considered
8th – An announcement could be made within a week
RUIZ v JOSHUA 2 – WHAT WE KNOW IS FACT SO FAR
Date: November or December
Venue: Wales or Saudi Arabia
Titles: IBF/IBO/WBA/WBO
TV: DAZN and Sky Sports Box Office
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