Andy Ruiz Jr. Biography: Age, Wife, Career, Height, Net Worth, Heavyweight Title, Family, Instagram

Andy Ruiz Jr. is a celebrated Mexican-American professional boxer known as the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent.

Nicknamed “The Destroyer,” he shocked the world in 2019 by knocking out unified champion Anthony Joshua to capture multiple world titles, becoming an inspiration for underdogs and Mexican boxing fans with his power, resilience, and humble roots.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Andrés Ponce Ruiz Jr.
• Stage Name: Andy Ruiz Jr.
• Born: September 11, 1989
• Age: 36 years old
• Birthplace: Imperial, California, United States
• Nationality: Mexican-American
• Ethnicity: Mexican
• Occupation: Professional Boxer
• Height: 188 cm (6 feet 2 inches)
• Religion: Christianity
• Parents: Andrés Ponce Ruiz Sr. and Mrs. Ruiz
• Siblings: Rafeal, Bernie, Angie
• Spouse: Julie Ruiz, Mayeli Alonso
• Children: Five
• Relationship: Dating
• Net Worth: $10 million USD

Early Life and Education

Andrés Ponce Ruiz Jr. was born on September 11, 1989, in Imperial, California. Brought up by his parents Andrés Ponce Ruiz Sr., a former construction worker who later flipped houses, and Mrs. Ruiz, in a hardworking Mexican immigrant family.

He grew up having three siblings, Rafeal, Bernie, Angie. His father introduced him to boxing at age seven after he showed early passion for sports, starting with baseball.

Ruiz later worked in construction with his father before committing fully to boxing. He started his amateur career in Mexico and graduated from Imperial High School in 2007. His religion is Christianity.

Career

Andy Ruiz Jr. turned professional in 2009 at age 19 with a standout amateur background of over 100 fights. He built a solid record fighting in the heavyweight division, known for his quick hands, power, and durability despite not having the typical tall heavyweight frame.

His career-defining moment came on June 1, 2019, when he stepped in as a late replacement and knocked out Anthony Joshua in the seventh round to win the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles in one of boxing’s biggest upsets.

He lost the titles in the rematch but continued competing against top contenders like Joseph Parker, Chris Arreola, and Luis Ortiz. His professional record stands at 35-2-1 with 22 knockouts.

Ruiz has overcome weight issues and personal challenges while remaining a fan favorite for his exciting style and Mexican pride. He last fought to a draw against Jarrell Miller in 2024 and has expressed interest in returning to the ring after focusing on fitness and family.

Awards and Nominations

• Unified Heavyweight Champion (WBA Super, IBF, WBO, IBO – 2019)
• First Heavyweight Champion of Mexican Descent

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @andy_destroyer13

Personal Life

Andy Ruiz Jr., 36 years old, was previously married to Julie Ruiz, with whom he shares several children. The couple has since separated. He has five children in total from different relationships.

He is currently in a relationship with Mayeli Alonso, the ex-wife of singer Lupillo Rivera, and they recently welcomed a daughter together. No engagement has been announced.

Past relationships include public disputes with an ex-girlfriend who accused him of abuse in 2023. He maintains a close bond with his children and family while residing in Imperial, California. His height is 188 cm (6 feet 2 inches).

Net Worth

Andy Ruiz Jr.’s net worth is estimated at $10 million USD. His income primarily comes from professional boxing fight purses including the multimillion-dollar Joshua bouts, sponsorships, endorsements, appearance fees, and business ventures outside the ring.