In a night brimming with high stakes and redemption, Anthony Joshua showcased the true grit of a champion, outmanoeuvring Andy Ruiz Jr. over twelve tactical rounds to reclaim the unified heavyweight crown at Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

After suffering a shocking setback in New York earlier that year, Joshua entered the rematch with purpose etched into every move. From the opening bell, the British powerhouse stuck religiously to a disciplined game plan, using his superior reach, sharp footwork, and stinging jab to neutralize Ruiz’s dangerous advances. No longer the brawler seen in Madison Square Garden, Joshua transformed into a master technician, turning the ring into a canvas and painting a strategic masterpiece.

The judges’ scorecards — 119-109, 118-110, and 118-110 — reflected the clear dominance Joshua displayed. Throughout the bout, he connected with 29% of his total punches, particularly peppering Ruiz with an array of stiff jabs that kept the Mexican-American challenger at bay. Ruiz, although game, struggled to break through Joshua’s calculated defences, landing only 23% of his own punches.

Ruiz found some success in isolated exchanges, notably in the middle rounds where he managed to close the distance and land a few heavy shots. But his inability to consistently cut off the ring left him chasing shadows as Joshua danced just out of reach, resetting the rhythm and reasserting control with crisp combinations.

The much-hyped rematch, dubbed “Clash on the Dunes,” was a testament not only to Joshua’s physical preparation but also to his mental fortitude. With £30 million invested by Saudi authorities to host the historic event, all eyes were on the heavyweight division’s future — and Joshua delivered under pressure with a poised, intelligent performance that erased the doubts swirling after their first encounter.

Post-fight, Ruiz called for a trilogy bout, expressing regret for what he admitted was a lack of preparation. Whether fans will see a third instalment remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Anthony Joshua silenced critics and reminded the boxing world why he remains one of the sport’s elite warriors.

With the heavyweight landscape now wide open again, the anticipation builds for what’s next for the two-time unified champion. The sweet science was on full display in Diriyah — and it was Anthony Joshua who penned his own redemption story under the desert stars.