Andy Ruiz Jr has cast doubt over his rematch against Anthony Joshua following reports that British heavyweight Dillian Whyte has allegedly failed a drugs test. The Mexican-American shocked the world last month by defeating Joshua to claim the IBF, WBA and WBO world heavyweight titles.
Ruiz Jr took to social media to state he would not travel to the UK for the rematch, writing: “I’m not going to the UK for the rematch #issasetup.” However, he later appeared to backtrack, acknowledging the debate with fans and adding: “I love everyone’s passion for boxing on twitter.”
The controversy stems from a report by Boxing Scene claiming that Whyte’s ‘A’ sample from a UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) test taken three days before his bout on July 17 had returned positive for a banned substance. It remains unclear whether his ‘B’ sample has been tested yet.
Promoter Eddie Hearn responded to the report, confirming that both Whyte and his opponent Oscar Rivas were subject to extensive VADA and UKAD testing for their bout. “Both fighters were cleared to fight by both bodies and the BBBofC,” Hearn stated.
Ruiz Jr’s comments have added uncertainty to the much-anticipated rematch with Joshua, with the location of the fight previously thought to be the only stumbling block. The bout is subject to a rematch clause, and negotiations are ongoing.
