Ruiz, the former IBF, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champion, takes on Knyba in the main event slot Friday night at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Ruiz (35-2-1, 22 KOs) hasn’t been in action since his August 2024 majority draw against Jarrell Miller. He’s also fought three times since losing his titles to Anthony Joshua at the end of 2019.

Knyba (17-1, 11 KOs), on the other hand, has been more active, but in his latest appearance, he was steamrolled by Agit Kabayel via third-round stoppage.

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Andy Ruiz: “I’m hungry and I’m motivated. I know I have what it takes to become a two-time heavyweight champion. I just need the opportunity to.

“I’m healthy and focused. Damian Knyba is a good fighter and I know he’s gonna bring his best but I know I can beat anybody when I’m focused. I’m ready to continue my journey and fight my way back to the titles.”

Damian Knyba: “I really believe in myself heading into this fight. I know that this is my chance to get to where I want to be at.

“I have my sights set very high and I hold myself to a high standard. Opportunities like this are a blessing and I would never turn it down. I’m ready.”

Ruiz is the favorite heading in at -275, according to DraftKings. Knyba, despite having the size advantage, is a +210 underdog.

Vito Meilnicki has obvious talent. But for the first time in his career, he’s taking a major step-up against Austin “Ammo” Williams. Whoever wins will move closer to a title shot, while the loser will have some rebuilding to do.

Alan Chaves is another name to look out for. He’s an undefeated lightweight at 22-0 with 19 of those wins coming via stoppage. He takes on Eridson Garcia.

Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

The card will be streamed on DAZN and it will also be shown on cable networks TNT and truTV. The main broadcast begins at 8am ET/1am BST.