John Ruiz

John ?The Quiet Man? Ruiz (born January 4, 1972), a native of Isabela, Puerto Rico who lives in Massachusetts, is the first Hispanic/Latino world heavyweight champion in professional boxing history. He currently is the two-time World Boxing Association (WBA) world Heavyweight Champion. His professional record is 41-5-1-1 (the last digit is for a no-contest), with 28 knockouts. Frustrated by years of criticism from the boxing press and fans, he retired upon his second loss of the WBA Title on April 30, 2005 (to James ?Lights-Out? Toney). Ruiz quickly ?un-retired? on the news that Toney tested positive for anabolic steroids after their match. The official outcome, a unanimous-decision defeat, was changed to a no-contest; the WBA ordered that Ruiz retain the title.

Related Topics:
January 4 - 1972 - Isabela - Puerto Rico - Hispanic - Latino - World Boxing Association - Heavyweight Champion - April 30 - 2005 - James ?Lights-Out? Toney

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Despite so far being a two-time world champion (most boxers never win one) who has only been knocked out once (by David Tua on March 15, 1996), Ruiz is widely viewed as an unworthy titleholder. Each world title ascendency has been accredited more to political maneuvering than anything else. Ruiz is also widely disliked for his ?jab-and-grab? style. This approach features slow body movement; infrequent, single-shot punching; and, limiting opponents? punches by grabbing their arms when they come within striking distance of him.

Related Topics:
David Tua - March 15 - 1996

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