Cancellation of Andy Ruiz Jr.’s Restaurant Venture
A planned restaurant venture featuring former heavyweight boxing champion Andy Ruiz Jr. has unexpectedly been canceled just days before its grand opening. The eatery in question, which was set to be rebranded as ‘Andy’s Pizzeria’, will now distance itself from the former WBA, WBO, and IBF titleholder, according to statements from the restaurant’s owner, Victor Lopez. Originally scheduled to make its debut this Thursday, the establishment, formerly known as Victorino’s Pizzeria, is situated in Chula Vista, California.
Announcement of Termination
In a startling revelation shared on Instagram, Lopez announced the termination of the partnership, addressing inquiries regarding the anticipated launch on July 10.
“We have parted ways and are not going to continue with this partnership,”
he declared, emphasizing that neither he, nor El Pollo Grill, nor Victorino’s Pizzeria is associated with Ruiz or his enterprise should any pizzeria operate under his name.
Background of the Collaboration
The collaboration between Ruiz and Lopez was first revealed in May, generating excitement in the local community, particularly due to Ruiz’s connections to San Diego. The heavyweight fighter, often referred to as “The Destroyer,” made history in 2019 when he became the first Mexican fighter to claim the world heavyweight title, pulling off a stunning upset against Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden.
Challenges in Ruiz’s Career
Despite his earlier triumphs, Ruiz’s career has faced challenges, including a significant decline after his victorious bout with Joshua. He has fought only four times in the last six years, with a hand injury against Jarrell Miller in August 2024 keeping him on the sidelines for the foreseeable future. The cancellation of the pizzeria venture adds another setback to his professional journey, paralleling his two knockdowns in the ring: one from Joshua and another from Chris Arreola in 2021.
Current Status of Victorino’s Pizzeria
As of now, Victorino’s Pizzeria continues to operate, located at 3047 Bonita Road, Suite 107 in Chula Vista, amidst ongoing inquiries by World Boxing News for any further details regarding the collapse of this promising partnership. Ruiz’s camp has also been contacted for a statement on the matter.
About the Author
Phil Jay, who has over 15 years of experience in boxing journalism, serves as Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News, where he has extensively covered major events and interviewed numerous world champions in the sport.
