31-Jul-19
This podcast features Joe Rogan in conversation with Andy Ruiz Jr., the first boxer of Mexican heritage to become World Heavyweight Champion. It delves into Ruiz Jr.’s remarkable journey, his historic victory over Anthony Joshua, and his plans for the future. The conversation covers a range of topics, from training and nutrition to the pressures of fame and the importance of staying grounded.
1. **Ruiz Jr.’s Unexpected Rise to Championship:**
- Ruiz Jr. was given a shot at the heavyweight title on short notice after his previous fight.
- He was initially underestimated, with many seeing him as a heavy underdog against Anthony Joshua.
- Ruiz Jr.’s victory was a major upset, highlighting his skills and potential that had been overlooked.
- His success has catapulted him to a new level of fame, with increased recognition and opportunities.
2. **The Impact of Ruiz Jr.’s Mexican Heritage:**
- Ruiz Jr. is the first Mexican-American boxer to hold the heavyweight title, a historic achievement for the community.
- He has received immense support and adulation from Mexican fans, with his victory inspiring a generation.
- His success resonates with a sense of pride and representation, breaking down barriers within the sport.
- He carries the weight of his heritage and the expectations that come with it.
3. **The Rematch with Anthony Joshua:**
- A rematch with Anthony Joshua is already in the works, with December being the tentative date.
- Both fighters are expected to come into the rematch with a renewed focus and intensity.
- The location of the rematch is still being negotiated, with the possibility of a fight in the U.S., Mexico, or the UK.
- The rematch is a highly anticipated event, with boxing fans eager to see if Ruiz Jr. can repeat his upset victory.
4. **Ruiz Jr.’s Training and Approach:**
- Ruiz Jr. follows a strict training regimen, focusing on strength conditioning, explosive movements, and sparring.
- He emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet, focusing on lean proteins, vegetables, and white rice.
- He maintains a positive attitude and believes in the power of visualization and mental preparation.
- Ruiz Jr.’s training philosophy is rooted in hard work, discipline, and a strong support system.
5. **The Future of Heavyweight Boxing:**
- The heavyweight division is currently experiencing a golden age, with multiple dominant fighters vying for supremacy.
- Ruiz Jr., Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and Tyson Fury are all considered top contenders, making for an exciting landscape.
- Potential matchups between these fighters are highly anticipated, with fans eager to see who will emerge as the undisputed champion.
- The division is characterized by its unpredictability, with any fighter capable of delivering a knockout blow at any moment.
6. **Ruiz Jr.’s Perspective on Fame and Success:**
- Ruiz Jr. maintains a grounded and humble attitude despite his newfound fame and wealth.
- He prioritizes his family and believes in staying true to his roots, remembering where he came from.
- He acknowledges the challenges of managing fame and staying focused on his goals.
- Ruiz Jr.’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and anyone who dreams of achieving greatness.
7. **Ruiz Jr.’s Influences and Inspirations:**
- Ruiz Jr. was heavily influenced by Mexican boxing legends such as Julio César Chávez, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Erik Morales.
- He admires the power and intensity of Mike Tyson, incorporating body shots into his own fighting style.
- He recognizes the importance of having a strong support system, crediting his father and his trainers for his success.
- He is motivated by the desire to give back to his community and provide opportunities for other aspiring Mexican fighters.
8. **The Importance of Discipline and Hard Work:**
- Ruiz Jr. emphasizes the crucial role of discipline and hard work in achieving success in boxing.
- He highlights the sacrifices and challenges faced by fighters, emphasizing the need for dedication and commitment.
- He promotes the idea that anything is possible with perseverance and a strong work ethic.
- His story showcases the power of believing in oneself and pursuing one’s dreams with relentless effort.
9. **Ruiz Jr.’s Approach to Staying Grounded:**
- Ruiz Jr. prioritizes his family and spends quality time with his children and fiancee.
- He surrounds himself with a close-knit group of friends and family who keep him grounded.
- He remains humble and thankful for the opportunities he has been given.
- Ruiz Jr. recognizes the importance of maintaining a balance between his boxing career and personal life.
10. **The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs:**
- Ruiz Jr. expresses his disapproval of performance-enhancing drugs, highlighting the risks and ethical concerns associated with their use.
- He praises the role of VADA testing in cleaning up the sport and ensuring a level playing field.
- He emphasizes the importance of natural talent, hard work, and dedication over shortcuts.
- Ruiz Jr. encourages aspiring athletes to build their success on hard work and integrity.
11. **The Beauty of Boxing as an Art Form:**
- Ruiz Jr. views boxing as an art form, appreciating the skill, strategy, and athleticism involved.
- He recognizes the beauty of a well-executed knockout, highlighting the artistry of the sport.
- He celebrates the unique styles and personalities of individual fighters.
- Ruiz Jr. believes that boxing, like other art forms, provides a platform for expression and self-discovery.
12. **Ruiz Jr.’s Plans for the Future:**
- Ruiz Jr. intends to continue boxing for a few more years, aiming to solidify his legacy as a champion.
- He aspires to become undisputed heavyweight champion, holding all four major titles in the division.
- He plans to establish his own boxing promotion company, aiming to provide opportunities for other fighters.
- Ruiz Jr. is focused on creating a positive impact on the sport and inspiring the next generation of boxers.
13. **The Importance of Family and Support System:**
- Ruiz Jr. credits his family for his success, particularly his father who encouraged him to pursue boxing.
- He acknowledges the importance of a strong support system, both in his personal and professional life.
- He emphasizes the significance of relationships and surrounding oneself with positive influences.
- Ruiz Jr.’s journey highlights the power of family bonds and the impact of supportive relationships.
14. **The Importance of Staying Humble:**
- Ruiz Jr. believes that staying humble is essential, even in the face of great success.
- He avoids egotism and recognizes the importance of gratitude and respect.
- He acknowledges that success is often a product of hard work and fortunate circumstances.
- Ruiz Jr.’s humble approach serves as a model for aspiring athletes and anyone seeking to navigate success with grace.
15. **The Power of Belief and Visualization:**
- Ruiz Jr. believes in the power of positive thinking and visualization, constantly reminding himself of his goals.
- He emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself, even when facing adversity.
- He uses visualization techniques to mentally prepare for his fights and envision success.
- Ruiz Jr.’s story illustrates the impact of mental fortitude and self-belief in achieving seemingly impossible goals.
16. **The Challenges and Rewards of Boxing:**
- Ruiz Jr. discusses the challenges faced by boxers, including the grueling training regimen, the pressures of competition, and the risk of injury.
- He acknowledges the sacrifices and commitment required to succeed in the sport.
- He also highlights the rewards of boxing, including the thrill of victory, the sense of accomplishment, and the opportunity to inspire others.
- Ruiz Jr.’s story underscores the complexities and rewards of a career in combat sports.
17. **The Importance of Staying Focused:**
- Ruiz Jr. emphasizes the importance of staying focused, both in training and in navigating the distractions of fame.
- He recognizes the need for discipline and self-control to achieve long-term success.
- He believes that maintaining focus is crucial for maximizing potential and achieving one’s goals.
- Ruiz Jr.’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing goals and staying committed to the path.
18. **Ruiz Jr.’s Unique Fighting Style:**
- Ruiz Jr.’s style is characterized by its fluidity, efficiency, and speed.
- He throws punches from different angles, creating a challenging opponent to defend against.
- His style has proven effective against larger opponents, allowing him to outmaneuver and overpower them.
- Ruiz Jr.’s unique approach to boxing makes him a formidable and unpredictable fighter.
19. **Ruiz Jr.’s Role Model Status:**
- Ruiz Jr.’s success and personality make him a strong role model for aspiring athletes and young people.
- His story demonstrates the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
- He inspires others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.
- Ruiz Jr.’s journey showcases the importance of embracing one’s unique strengths and overcoming challenges.
20. **The Power of Giving Back:**
- Ruiz Jr. is passionate about giving back to his community, particularly to young people who aspire to pursue boxing.
- He plans to use his platform to promote boxing and provide opportunities for other talented fighters.
- Ruiz Jr.’s commitment to giving back reflects his gratitude for his success and his desire to make a positive impact on the world.
- His story emphasizes the importance of using one’s success to inspire and empower others.
5 Memorable Quotes:
- “It’s still, yeah, of course, it’s real for the first few weeks, the first few days I was pinching myself seeing if those, if those are dream or nothing, but you know, I’m just really blessed to be here.”
- “You have fluid punches man. I mean, it’s really interesting to watch you’re so efficient.”
- “Yeah, because I mean well it’s also you like you like hey you know people that like go to the beach don’t want to take the shirt off you’re like fuck man Andy Ruiz is kind of like shit and he’s the champ of the world yeah give this big guy is confident.”
- “Life it’s a big motivation especially me I have five kids so damn I’m 29 wow five kids started early I know but Mexican style yeah Mexican style beautiful.”
- “I want to be the Mexican Rocky, so I want to continue to keep winning and defending all my titles. That’s beautiful.”