Nigerian-British World heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua has defeated Andy Ruiz Jr reclaiming his IBF, WBA and WBO titles.
Joshua had lost the titles to Ruiz in a shock defeat in June in New York. With his victory, Joshua has joined greats such as Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis and Evander Holyfield on the list of heavyweights to reclaim world titles on the first attempt.
Dominating from the outset in the bout which lasted until 12 rounds at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia, Joshua won by margins of 118-110 on two scorecards with the third judge making it 119-109.
Speaking on his victory, Joshua said: “I wanted to put on a boxing masterclass.”
“First of all, thanks to God. The first time was so nice, I had to do it twice.
“I knew I could win this. This is about boxing, I’m used to knocking guys out.
“I gave the man his credit, I said I would correct myself, I respect Andy, But I wanted to put on a boxing masterclass.
“It’s the sweet science, it’s about hitting and not getting hit.
“No change in mentalist, stay hungry and stay humble. I’m going to remain humble in victory. Thanks to Ruiz and his family, thanks to Saudi, the fans and thanks to God and Eddie Hearn.”