Gary Antuanne Russell Could Move Up Or Down
In his next prizefight, super lightweight boxer Gary Antuanne Russell (16-0, 16 KO’s) will tangle with Kent Cruz. The bout will come a full thirteen months after his last clash with Rances Barthelemy back on July 30, 2022. Yet, seeking both to challenge himself and advance his legacy, Russell let it be known that he was open to moving up or down in divisions. The talented southpaw, with a perfect knockout ratio, aired these feelings in a Q&A with Mill City Boxing.
“Well my whole plan was to get the titles, the WBA, WBO, the IBF, WBC, and then move up or down. I can go to ‘35, I can go to ‘47, either or. Because you got a lot of people at ‘35 moving up to ‘40, you know what I am saying?! And I will still be strong too, it’d be almost like a heavier weight class moving down, that’s literally what it is, a heavier weight class moving down. So it’s going to bring strength and power versus a lighter weight class moving up.”
THE STATUS QUO
In his current 140-pound division, Russell is ranked #3 (WBC) and #14 (IBF). With those standings, the southpaw is most strategically positioned to go at WBC champion Regis Prograis. Yet, Prograis is likely to have his hands full with undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney. The official announcement of their fight has not been declared, but it appears this is what’s next for those two.
There is no doubt that Russell is a talented pugilist, yet it is questionable what major fights he could secure at 135. It’s highly unlikely that Haney, if he returns to the division, would face him over a big money fight. The same really would probably go for Shakur Stevenson and Vasiliy Lomachenko.
LOOK OUT BELOW!
At the same time, fighters such as Keyshawn Davis and Michel Rivera may oblige him. Rivera is still looking to rebuild his career and reputation since being dominated and outclassed by Frank Martin. Even worse, Rivera popped dirty for PED’s after the duel. So notching a solid win over a dangerous foe is just what he needs to put a little luster back on his name.
Keyshawn Davis seems to just want action at the moment and the challenge of besting a bigger fighter seems right up his alley. Of course, these are just hypotheticals, but perhaps there are a few fights of real interest for Russell down at 135. First however, Russell must take care of business with Kent Cruz. If not, there is no need to continue speculating about the fast-track fights.
