Hughie Fury to face Andy Ruiz Jr on Fury-Klitschko bill
Wednesday 7 September 2016 15:54, UK
Hughie Fury will tackle fellow undefeated heavyweight title contender Andy Ruiz Jr on the undercard of Tyson Fury's rematch with Wladimir Klitschko in Manchester next month.
Fury, who has racked up 20 straight wins, 10 by knockout, will secure mandatory status to cousin Tyson's WBO heavyweight crown should he defeat Ruiz at the Manchester Arena on October 29.
The 21-year-old beat Fred Kassi on a technical decision to win the WBO Inter-Continental title at the Copper Box Arena in his last fight in April.
"I am happy to be in such a big fight against a top heavyweight," said Fury. "I will be giving my all to retain my WBO Inter-Continental belt and I hope it is a fight that the fans enjoy.
"Out of all the top up-and-coming heavyweights I believe I have fought the better men in my career so far. Being tested against tougher opponents will help me in this fight."
Ruiz Jr previously held the WBO Inter-Continental title and boasts a record of 28 straight victories, with 19 inside the distance.
Peter Fury, trainer and father of Hughie, said: "Hughie is a true fighting man who loves his sport. He trains hard and will need to be as prepared as possible as Ruiz Jr is easily one of the best heavyweights in the world right now.
"Hughie is ready to take this challenge and this once again proves we only want the best fights for him. He wants to earn his position, he doesn't want to fight cherry-picked opposition like other heavyweights.
"I know Hughie can become a great fighter. To do that he must do what other heavyweights won't; fight top drawer opponents."
Promoter Frank Warren believes Fury is now ready to be a major force in the heavyweight scene after overcoming an energy-sapping skin condition.
"Hughie is a fighting man, he's done things the hard way," said Warren. "The division is certainly opening up and I can see Hughie being a dominant figure for years to come.
"He has won all 20 of his professional fights with a debilitating skin condition so how good is he going to be now he is fully fit?"
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