A surge of irritation swept over Gary Antuanne Russell earlier today, sparked by Lamont Roach’s assertion that he had been “rag-dolled” by a rival combatant in an amateur tournament years prior.
Russell Takes It Personal
(25-1-2, 10 KOs) Expressed a keen interest in facing Russell (18-1, 17 KOs) should he be denied an opportunity to challenge WBC 140-lb champion Subriel Matias for the undisputed title, a scenario contingent on his victory over WBC interim champion Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz this Saturday night, December 6th, in San Antonio, Texas.
WBA light welterweight champion Antuanne Russell emerges as one of three potential adversaries Roach has in mind if he succeeds in dethroning Cruz (28-3-1, 18 KOs) in their headline bout, set to unfold on Amazon Prime Video PPV at the Frost Bank Center. Roach’s confidence is unwavering, as he speaks with absolute certainty about defeating Cruz, projecting an air of assured triumph.
Face-Off Brewing in San Antonio
“I intend to be present at the Lamont Roach vs. Pitbull Cruz fight, and I have some choice words for Lamont Roach as well. He’s venturing beyond his comfort zone, and his language is becoming quite offensive,” Gary Antuanne Russell conveyed to MillCity Boxing.
In his remarks earlier today, Roach conveyed the impression that Russell had suffered a severe beating in the amateur tournament they both participated in. Roach then claimed to have subsequently defeated the very fighter who had bested Russell. However, Roach refrained from specifying the timeframe of these events. He also neglected to mention his own multiple defeats in the amateur ranks, where he concluded with a record of 22 wins and 10 losses.
“He stated his intention to choose his words carefully, be highly strategic, and execute his moves with precision. If you intend to make comments about me, conduct yourself like an adult. Express your thoughts directly, boldly, and with clarity. All this BS he’s spouting. He needs to overcome this fight first.
“Beat Cruz First,” Says Russell
“If he manages to emerge victorious from this fight, he claims he’ll be in a position to exert influence and make this showdown a reality. He’s welcome to call me out. He has my permission to do so. Otherwise, he’s fabricating stories about someone rag-dolling me. I have never been subjected to such treatment by anyone. Defeat Isaac Cruz, exercise your rights as champion, and then call me out,” Russell stated.
