Boxing news: Anthony Joshua explains why Andy Ruiz critics should ignore foe's physique
ANTHONY JOSHUA has defended his upcoming fight with Andy Ruiz, insisting the former WBO title challenger is “championship level.”
Anthony Joshua will defend his WBA (Super), WBO, IBF and IBO titles against the Mexican-born American at Madison Square Garden in New York a week on Saturday.
Joshua’s American debut was supposed to see him lock horns with Brooklyn native Jarrell Miller, but the bout was scrapped as ‘Big Baby’ failed a trio of drug tests.
Much of the build-up to Joshua’s short-notice showdown with Ruiz has been focused on the latter’s physique, with many adamant it’s not becoming of a world-class boxer.
Joshua, who is famed for his Adonis-like physique, is well aware of the criticisms that have been levelled his opponent’s way and believes they're very much unwarranted.
"It's not about what you look like - it's a craft, a skill," he said.
"What's in your heart and head matters in the end. Andy has shown he has all that, he can fight and box, that's what matters.
"I think Andy is a great challenger and will bring it on 1 June.”
Ruiz’s bout with Joshua will be his second world title fight, his first coming against Joseph Parker in December 2016.
It's not about what you look like - it's a craft, a skill
The 29-year-old goes into his clash with Joshua the overwhelming underdog, but the defending champion isn’t underestimating the Californian.
"All I've heard is 'AJ will smash him in a round'," said Joshua.
"From the outside they think that anyone can box, so how is the guy that doesn't look like a fighter able to box?
"I always say that if you put 10 bodybuilders in the ring, not one of them could fight for a regional title in boxing.
"Take me out of my body but keep the same attributes and height, same jab, same chin, same heart and same mind, but I looked different - I'd still get to the same position I am in because it's what is within you that makes a champion.
"He's keen, he's game and you cannot knock him. He can fight and he's got hands.
“He gave a world champion in Joseph Parker lots of problems.
“Andy is championship level for sure, and I have not underestimated him one bit."