Gary Russell Jr. Explaining his inactivity: “Fans and media have to hold themselves accountable a little bit”

By: Hans Themistode

Eye-catching hand speed, underrated punching power and superb skill have made Gary Russell Jr a fan favorite in the ring. It also drives him completely crazy outside of it.

From 2015-2020, Russell Jr. step over the rope only once a year. In 2021, the WBC featherweight belt holder was unable to compete. Despite spending a long time on the sidelines, Russell Jr insists that his inactivity is not his fault. Having spent the past several years calling countless fighters from different weight classes including Gervonta Davis, Terence Crawford and Leo Santa Cruz – Russell Jr refuses to waste time facing opposition he deems unworthy .

While the featherweight athlete is repeatedly punished for his laziness, the Washington DC native believes his scarcity of ring appearances is, at least in part, to blame. to both his pugilistic sport consumers and its advocates.

“I mean, the fans, as well as the media, have to hold themselves accountable for that,” Russell Jr said in a recent conference call explaining why he continues to be inactive as he is. so. “I am ready to compete with anyone, anytime, anywhere but I cannot force these people to enter the ring with me. I need a dance partner, I can’t join the ring and box ball. ”

For the first time in nearly two years, Russell Jr will return to the ring. On January 22, at the Borgata Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, Russell Jr will take on undefeated mandatory challenger Mark Magsayo.

Although the 33-year-old hopes to attract a more attractive name to the ring, he respects and appreciates Magsayo for stepping up to the title.

“A lot of these people aren’t really willing to step in there with me and put it all on the line. Finally, another competitor with some hearts and some capes ready to fight. I tip my hat to Mark Magsayo. I know he’ll bring his best, I want him to bring his best. We’ll see who’s the best. ”