Damian Knyba defeats Andy Ruiz Jr. via unanimous decision

Damian Knyba secured a unanimous decision victory over former heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. at the Prudential Center in Newark. The judges scored the bout 117-110, 114-113, and 114-113.

Knyba utilized his significant reach and physical advantages to control much of the fight. A pivotal moment occurred in the seventh round when Knyba landed a combination that sent Ruiz to the canvas. Despite the knockdown, Ruiz managed to recover and complete the 12 rounds.

The match marked Ruiz’s return to the ring after a hiatus of over two years. Analysts and former champions, including Shawn Porter, noted that the lack of recent activity was evident in Ruiz’s performance. Following the loss, Ruiz addressed his followers on social media, apologizing for the result but stating, “I will never give up and will keep fighting until the end,” rejecting immediate calls for retirement.