Would have been a great fight had Ruiz not won the lottery and then capitalized on it. Ruiz has bigger more important fish to fry now. Kownacki is going to need to work himself into a position for a title shot now.
Kownacki should beat Wilder first, but it seems not to be possible soon, therefore, a fight against Ruiz is a good alternative for him. It would be a great fight of tanks.
If Ruiz beats Joshua in a rematch, he will be in no hurry for a Wilder fight. But Kownacki is a dangerous fight, i suppose Ruiz would take easier fight for a first defense.
Comment