Young would win big, Ruiz would not get a chance to hug and hold & hit, Young uses the Jab to outclass the rugged Ruiz for a sweep 12rd UD
Jimmy Young had far more boxing skills than John Ruiz. If Ruiz was allowed to use his awful "jab-and-grab" style against Young during the latter's peak years, he might have a chance. Otherwise, forget it. However, Keep in mind that Young seemed to fade or become disinterested after a relatively short time as a contender. - Chuck Johnston
Young clearly outboxes him but gets robbed on the cards, Ruiz retains the Don King Championship via draw, and nobody cares.
Both known to have a very "negative" fighting style. Jimmy Young could really box well if he was willing to throw punches. John Ruiz is also better than people give him credit for but overall I think Young is the better boxer but Ruiz has a size advantage and he could make the fight ugly as he did most of the time. I can see Ruiz edging out a close, ugly decision even though Young is the better "pure" boxer in my opinion.
It's a ref's fight .. if Ruiz is not allow to maul and hold Jimmy boxes his way to a dull decision .. Young was like Byrd .. very elusive and cagey .. a skilled guy who could box quite well ..