Frustration for Fury as opponent withdraws from upcoming fight

Hughie Fury [20(10)-0] has been dealt a frustrating blow following the withdrawal of his opponent, Andy Ruiz Jr [29(19)-0], from their upcoming clash on the Fury-Klitschko rematch undercard.

Fury was due to face the unbeaten Mexican-American in a WBO heavyweight eliminator on the October 29th card at the Manchester Arena, but father and trainer Peter confirmed on social media this morning that Ruiz had pulled out.

Top Rank’s Ruiz had won a ten-round bout with Franklin Lawrence in California less than two weeks ago, and no reason for his withdrawal has been specified as of yet.

The fight was due to be a step-up in class for Fury, who turned 22 on Sunday, following his recovery from Acne Conglobata.

It is assumed that a replacement for Ruiz will be found and that Fury will remain on the card headlined by cousin Tyson who defends his heavyweight crown against Wladimir Klitschko, and also featuring Tipperary heavyweight Con Sheehan and Galway welterweight Peter McDonagh.

However, it will be unlikely that an opponent of the same caliber as Ruiz will be found on just five weeks notice.