Plans to charge for attending boxing champion Ruiz’s rally divides community
Update: Both events will now be free of charge. For the full story go here.
Andy Ruiz, Jr., scored a huge upset in the boxing world when he became the heavyweight champion. Now the Imperial Chamber of Commerce is upsetting the valley by planning to charge local fans to see him at an upcoming rally. Ruiz is from Imperial Valley and grew up in City of Imperial.
Everardo Rodriguez, Ruiz’ friend and local businessman, said, ” I think it’s a shame that they trying to do some event, trying to make some profit about him. I’m pretty sure that he doesn’t know what’s going on. ”
The chamber plans to charge $20 for adults and $10 for kids.
” It’s a no-go . It’s a no-go for us, ” Rodriguez said.
The rally is planned for Saturday 22 nd at IV Fairgrounds, immediately after a parade for Ruiz there.
“I think he’s going to be pretty upset, if he was my case, because they’re making profit of him and I don’t think he’s going to agree with, because I know Andy and his family, they’re very humble persons,” Rodriguez said.
The City of Imperial opposes the chamber’s plans. They wanted a free parade downtown. Rodriguez agrees with that plan as many people do.
” Including the kids, say hi to the champion. I think that’s the best way to go, ” Rodriguez said.
Jorge Munoz, another close friend of Ruiz, described the champion as a humble person who’s sparred with the best, such as former boxing champion Evander Holyfield .
” That’s when Evander was already at the top. Pretty much Andy was still a kid and he was already sparring, doing some round with Evander Holyfield , ” Munoz said.
He said the chamber hasn’t been clear about the event’s details or why they’re charging for the rally.
” I don’t know where the funds were going to go to. I’ve heard different stories. I’m not a hundred percent sure, ” Munoz said.
He, along with many people who have many questions about the event, would like the chamber to more transparent. We reached out to the chamber and they would not give us details, either.
“But if it’s for another non-profit, for something good, then I don’t see why not if it’s in the VIP section, just people that want to go,” Munoz said.
Rodriguez said it might even be illegal to profit from Ruiz’s image and newfound fame.
” I don’t think it’s a good idea. I think we have to do for the benefit of the kids, ” Rodriguez said.
Ruiz’s local promotions group, Team Destroyer, said they’re working with the chamber to find a solution that benefits everyone, especially Ruiz’s number one fans, the kids.
