The top tier heavyweights are competing to secure a lucrative world title shot in 2023, but for the loser, the road back is set to be a long one, so victory is vital if a date against one of the division's champions is to be confirmed next year. 

Since his 2019 series with Anthony Joshua that saw him win and lose the heavyweight crown, Ruiz has only fought once and that was a lacklustre win against the faded Chris Arreola.  

With Ortiz set to provide a sterner test, Ruiz fully believes that he’ll be back to his best on Sunday and will leave the ring with plenty to look forward to. 

“I feel great. It means so much for me to be fighting in Los Angeles in front of all of my fans and supporters and I’m just ready to go,” said Ruiz at the fight’s final media workout. “Everyone here today and everyone who supports me are my motivation to keep going. 

“If this ends in a knockout it ends in a knockout. My only goal is to be victorious. I’m in shape to go 12 hard rounds. We’re going to go in there and leave it all in the ring. 

“I’m proof that anything is possible if you work hard and stay disciplined. The main thing right now is just accomplishing our goal Sunday night and leave the ring with my hand raised.”