16.04.05 – In what figures to be one of the most dangerous fights in his career, World Boxing Association heavyweight champion John “The Quietman” Ruiz (41-51, 28 KOs) will put his title on the line against three-time world champion James “Lights Out” Toney (68-4-2, 43 KOs) at Madison Square Garden on April 30 in a match promoted by Don King Productions and Goossen Tutor Promotions in association with Madison Square Garden.. Tickets priced at $350, $250, $175, $100 and $50 are on sale now at the Garden box office and all Ticketmaster locations or by calling Ticketmaster at (212) 307-7171, (201) 507-8900, (631) 888-9000, or (914) 454-3388. Ticketmaster purchases are subject to convenience charges.
JAMES “LIGHTS OUT” TONEY
“The fight with Ruiz is going to be any way he wants to make it. He can do it the hard way, get beat up for 12 rounds and end up in the hospital. Or, he can do it the easy way, get hit on the chin and go to sleep.
“It is up to him. I do what I do and I am going to do whatever it takes to win the heavyweight title. Mentally and physically, I am ready to fight and for anything Ruiz brings.
“I am very excited and cannot wait to fight in Madison Square Garden. I am focused now, but I really will be focused once I get to New York. New York fans are great. They are very knowledgeable and know how to treat real fighters. Being Puerto Rican, Ruiz will have a lot of his fans there. But I feel once the fans see me fight, they will embrace me. I do not know why they would embrace a guy that holds and hugs.
“I do not watch tapes. Guy who do are scared. I fear no one but God. Fighters fight so many different ways; you have to be ready for everything and I will be on April 30. I cannot thank John Ruiz enough for stepping up and giving me the opportunity to take his title away.”