Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr suffered defeat in his comeback fight, losing a unanimous points decision to Poland's Damian Knyba in Newark, New Jersey. The 36-year-old, who famously beat Anthony Joshua in 2019 to claim world titles before losing the rematch later that year, has struggled with injuries and inactivity since, and this bout marked only his fourth appearance in nearly seven years. The result is a setback for Ruiz Jr's hopes of rebuilding his career after signing with promoter Eddie Hearn, though he insists he still has more to offer.

Ruiz Jr was knocked down in the seventh round and survived to the bell, ultimately losing on scorecards of 117-110, 114-113 and 114-113, with Knyba improving his record to 18 wins and one defeat. Ruiz Jr, whose overall record stands at 35 wins, one draw and three defeats, blamed the loss on ring rust following a long layoff and Knyba's tactic of holding, and called for a rematch. He had not fought since drawing with Jarrell Miller in August 2024 and said he wants to stay active and continue his career.