Victor Lopez, owner of Victorino’s Pizzeria in Bonita and the founder of the original concept, issued a public statement clarifying that he and Ruiz have parted ways and will not move forward with the planned partnership. In a social media post shared on Monday, Lopez wrote: "We have parted ways and are not going to continue with this partnership… Neither I, El Pollo Grill, nor Victorino’s Pizzeria are affiliated with him nor his brand."
The announcement has sparked confusion, as the restaurant was in the midst of rebranding from Victorino’s Pizzeria to Andy’s Pizzeria, with Ruiz set to appear in person for the opening. The new name and theme were intended to reflect the boxer's career and cultural heritage, featuring a boxing-inspired interior and references to his Mexican roots.
Ruiz, who made history in 2019 by becoming the first Mexican heavyweight champion, had been slated to join Lopez in the business and help launch the rebranded eatery. The partnership was first announced in May, with promises of a remodel and celebration featuring music, raffles, and Ruiz himself.
Victorino’s Pizzeria, which opened in early 2024, quickly gained popularity in the San Diego's South Bay for its New York-style pies and San Diego-inspired square slices. Lopez’s signature dough, crafted with Caputo Tipo 00 flour and a mozzarella-provolone blend, helped establish the shop’s reputation, with standouts like the Ciao Bella Margarita, Bonita White, and the El Padrino, a nod to Lopez’s nearby restaurant El Pollo Grill.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the rebranding effort will continue without Ruiz or if the restaurant will continue to operating under the Victorino's Pizzeria name. The original grand opening event had been promoted for Wednesday, July 10. Lopez concluded his statement with an apology for any confusion surrounding the situation.
Victorino's Pizzeria is located at at 3047 Bonita Road, Suite 107, in San Diego's South Bay city of Bonita. For updates, follow @victorinospizzeria on Instagram.
Victorino’s Pizzeria, which opened in early 2024, quickly gained popularity in the San Diego's South Bay for its New York-style pies and San Diego-inspired square slices. Lopez’s signature dough, crafted with Caputo Tipo 00 flour and a mozzarella-provolone blend, helped establish the shop’s reputation, with standouts like the Ciao Bella Margarita, Bonita White, and the El Padrino, a nod to Lopez’s nearby restaurant El Pollo Grill.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the rebranding effort will continue without Ruiz or if the restaurant will continue to operating under the Victorino's Pizzeria name. The original grand opening event had been promoted for Wednesday, July 10. Lopez concluded his statement with an apology for any confusion surrounding the situation.
Victorino's Pizzeria is located at at 3047 Bonita Road, Suite 107, in San Diego's South Bay city of Bonita. For updates, follow @victorinospizzeria on Instagram.
Originally published on July 7, 2025.
