UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov joined by Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and pop star Usher ringside for Joshua vs Ruiz rematch
KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV was among the biggest stars that were ringside in Saudi Arabia for the rematch between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr.
The UFC lightweight champion was joined by boxing superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez – who was supporting his fellow Mexican Ruiz.
But he will have been gutted at the result as Ruiz was easily outpointed as Joshua won back his heavyweight belts.
Brit pair Derek Chisora and Amir Khan were pictured ringside as they travel to watch Joshua.
Pop star Usher – who played a concert in Saudi this weekend – smiled for photos as he took his seat at the Diriyah Arena.
Joshua, who could bank up to £60million for the Saudi Arabia showdown, is tonight seeking revenge for his shock KO in June.
Mexican Ruiz Jr weighed in at 20st 3lb yesterday, while lean and mean AJ was just 16st 13lb as he battles to regain his WBA, WBO and IBF world heavyweight titles.
Joshua, 30, said: “It will definitely be catastrophic if I lose — but I’m not even thinking about that.
“It will be big business when I win. As bad as it was when I lost, it will be as great when I win.
“It is a rematch — but I’m still fighting for the heavyweight championship of the world. I’m more than ready.”
Joshua was 17st 9lb for the first fight, with Ruiz Jr coming in at 19st 2lb.
Anthony Joshua vs Andy Ruiz 2
But in Saudi Arabia the champion, 30, had bulked up even further.
AJ laughed: “He’s a big lad, isn’t he?
“But it is not about weight, it is about hitting and not getting hit. It’s the sweet science.”