RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — Anthony Joshua jumped up and down in the ring with his massive entourage, celebrating being around $70 million richer and having three world heavyweight belts back in his possession. For the British boxing superstar, it was well worth this controversial trip to Saudi Arabia. In the first heavyweight title fight to be held in the Middle East, Joshua toyed with an out-of-shape Andy Ruiz Jr. over 12 unspectacular rounds to win a unanimous points decision, reclaiming the World Boxing Association, World Boxing Organization and International Boxing Federation belts and avenging a stunning upset by his Mexican-American opponent six months ago. Joshua got his game plan spot on, using his lighter frame to outmaneuver Ruiz, relying on his longer reach to stay clear of trouble and selecting his moments to go on the attack. In the final seconds of a bout fought in the early hours of Sunday, Joshua was almost running around the ring and Ruiz — exhausted and outfought — was planted in the middle, urging him to come closer.

Source: International New York Times December 08, 2019 02:03 UTC