Andy Hiraoka vs. Gary Antuanne Russell: A Clash of Undefeated Fighters
LAS VEGAS – Gary Antuanne Russell is confident in his position within the junior welterweight division, and after his performance on Saturday’s DAZN pay-per-view card, he feels justified in declaring himself the best. Russell (18-1, 17 KOs) will defend his WBA 140lbs belt against Japan’s top-ranked contender, Andy Hiraoka (24-0, 19 KOs), at T-Mobile Arena. The card also features Richardson Hitchins defending his title against Oscar Duarte.
Russell’s Confidence and Future Goals
Russell, 29, recently observed Shakur Stevenson’s unanimous decision victory over Teofimo Lopez Jr. on January 31st. While impressed, Russell believes his own boxing skills and power set him apart. “Definitely – hands down, and I still haven’t shown everybody my full potential,” Russell told BoxingScene. “I use what I need to use to become victorious against the opponents I have in front of me. Until then, y’all have just got to stay tuned.”
Having sparred with and been a US Olympic teammate of Stevenson, Russell sees a potential future bout as a significant step forward. “That’d be the fight that would [carry] me to the position I [deserve],” Russell stated. “He’s ranked three pound-for-pound now and has come up to 140. Made his mark, and looked good [against Lopez]. I know if I can beat him, I’d shake up the world and a lot of things would be going on.” When asked about his strategy against Stevenson, Russell remained tight-lipped: “I don’t kiss and tell, but it will be a great fight.”
Hiraoka’s Journey to the Title Shot
First, however, Russell must overcome Andy Hiraoka, whose arrival in the US was initially delayed due to visa issues. Hiraoka earned his mandatory WBA contender status with a knockout victory over Ismael Barroso in Tokyo in September 2024. The 28-year-old southpaw has won his last 10 bouts by knockout.
Russell acknowledged the challenges in securing the fight, saying, “Shoutout to the embassy – because if it wasn’t for Japan green-lighting him, I wouldn’t be having an opponent right now.” He also emphasized the importance of not underestimating Hiraoka, despite the travel difficulties. “I don’t overlook any opponents, even though I have a lot of people I want to fight in the future,” he said. “I’ve got to put that fantasy on hold right now. The guy in front of me is undefeated, young, and I hear he’s a brick layer. But he hasn’t fought anybody like me. So he better be prepared.”
Preparing for a Tough Opponent
Russell understands that the success of Saturday’s event hinges on the quality of the fight. “It depends on what kind of fight my opponent is bringing to the ring,” he explained. “I’ve got to make sure that I’m very flexible and be a diamond. I was always told that a diamond shines from all sides. So whatever he’s bringing to the game plan, I’ve got to have an answer for it.”
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