By: Sean Crose
He doesn’t fight much — about once a year at most — but WBC featherweight champion Gary Russle Jr will return to the ring on January 22. He will lead the bout three times in the chapter. Showtime show live from Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Team 31-1 Russell Jr will fight for the first time since 2020 and the seventh in seven years. His opponent in the twelfth round is expected to be Mark Magsayo 23-0. The card will be promoted by the TGB Promotion.
“I’m ready and I’m waiting to show my talent and get back in the ring,” Russell said. “My opponent was one of Manny Pacquiao’s boxers, a legend in the sport and I’m pretty sure he has a good eye for talent. I’m sure he signed with Magsayo for a reason. I know that I am facing a guy who is willing to put everything on the line, with everything to gain and nothing to lose. ”
It’s worth noting that Russell is an extremely skilled paparazzi who recently offered to gain weight to face Terence Crawford. Russell’s most recent victory was a point win over previously unbeaten Tugsogt Nyambayar. He may not get into fights very often, but Russell is definitely someone to watch when he does.
“Gary Russell Jr has been a force in featherweight for many years with his dazzling skills and will again defend his title against an aspiring and powerful rising opponent when he takes on Mark Magsayo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, January 22,” said Tom Brown of TGB. “Magsayo won this fight with an impressive 10th round knockdown of Julio Ceja in August and he will look to prove he is the future of the £126 division, by beating long-reigning featherweight king Russell, who proved worthy of the top spot with five successful title defenses. Combined with two almighty curtains, this bout turns into a cinematic boxing night in Atlantic City. “
Needless to say, Magsayo was delighted with the opportunity he was given. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity to fight on Showtime for the WBC world title,” he said. “This is the fight I want and have worked for for many years. I will come to win and make the most of this opportunity. There’s a reason for Gary to be the champion, just as there’s a reason for me to be the obligatory challenger. This will be a great fight for me to show the world how Filipinos are made. I have come a long way to get to this position and I will fight to honor the people who have helped me get here.”
