Gary Russell Jr Hopes to Secure Big Names in 2023 Return
There is no doubt that the memories surrounding “Mr.” Gary Russell Jr’s (31-2, 18 KO’s) last fight are bitter ones. In that dust-up, versus Mark Magsayo, Russell entered the ring with an injury and exited the arena with his second professional defeat.
With the loss, which snapped an eight-year win streak, Mr. also had his WBC featherweight title rudely wrestled from his possession. He had held the strap for seven years, yet only staged a paltry five successful defenses. Magsayo lost it by way of split decision in his first title defense, against Rey Vargas, six month after obtaining the strap. Now, three month fresh off his corrective shoulder surgery, Russell is pondering whether or not he can even physically compete to his own satisfaction.
“First of all, I am three months out of my shoulder surgery. I’m not even sure if my arm will be back 100% for me to compete in which the way I want to compete going forward.”
NOTHING CHANGED HERE!
It will be interesting to see what Russell Jr. chooses to do in the next chapter of his career. The biggest knock against him was that he never fought enough, having acquired the unfavorable habit of only competing once a year for significant chunks of time. Therefore, it’d be a shame if his career was cut short without so many delightful showdowns taking place.
Yet, if he does soldier on with his rough profession, Gary Russell Jr leaves no doubt he still wants all the same guys. Sadly, it sounds like his anemic dance schedule will remain in place.
“I want the people that I have always wanted, nothing ever changed. I been wanted Gervonta Tank Davis, I wanted Leo Santa Cruz before he even got his ass washed up. When Terence Crawford was talking, I was willing to move up in weight and see him. I was willing to see Devin Haney. But they bullshitted on the contract, so it is what it is. I’m getting my arm right, three months out, stay tuned. Who knows, I might pop up in about a year from now!”
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By: Bakari Simpson
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