Society Gists

Joshua says this fight was his second favourite in his career. His victory over Klitschko was his No1 due to his respect for his opponent.

Joshua makes a point of thanking the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and members of the royalty after his victory, which will not go down well with those who see this fight as little more than an exercise in sportswashing.

Ruiz grabs the mic and says: “Who wants to see a third fight?” Joshua replies: “If you’ve heard, you’ll see a third.” I take that as a confirmation they’ll go again.

Ruiz admits he was too heavy for the fight. “I was chasing him too much, hesitating too much,” he says.

Joshua speaks:

First of all, I want to thank God. I want to say, man, the first time was so nice, I had to do it twice. A man like me don’t make no excuses, I’m used to knocking out guys. I said to myself I was going to correct myself. The sweet science of this sport is hitting and not getting caught. I’m hungry and I’m humble. Thank you to Andrew Ruiz and his family.