The upcoming boxing match between Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela and Gary Antuanne Russell is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. Here’s a detailed preview:
Fight Overview
- Date and Time: Saturday, March 1, 2025. The main card begins at 8 p.m. ET, with this bout serving as a co-feature to the Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach main event.
- Venue: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York.
- Title on the Line: WBA Super Lightweight Championship.
Fighter Profiles
- Jose Valenzuela:
- Record: 14-2-0, with 9 wins by knockout.
- Style: Southpaw.
- Strengths: Valenzuela is a rangy fighter with a strong jab and excellent combination punching. His ability to mix body and head shots effectively makes him a dangerous opponent. He has shown resilience in his career, bouncing back from two losses to secure a split-decision victory over Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in his last fight, which earned him the WBA Super Lightweight title.
- Recent Performance: Valenzuela’s win over Cruz demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and adapt to aggressive opponents. He will look to build on this momentum in his first title defense.
- Gary Antuanne Russell:
- Record: 17-1-0, with all 17 wins coming by knockout.
- Style: Southpaw.
- Strengths: Russell is a relentless pressure fighter with a 100% knockout rate in his victories. His ability to cut off the ring and land powerful combinations makes him a formidable challenger. Despite suffering his first career loss to Alberto Puello in a split decision last year, Russell remains a top contender with a strong amateur pedigree.
- Recent Performance: Russell’s loss to Puello was a setback, but he has had time to regroup and will be eager to make a statement in this fight.
Key Matchup Factors
- Power vs. Precision: Russell’s knockout power is unmatched, but Valenzuela’s precision and ability to fight at range could neutralize Russell’s aggression.
- Pressure Handling: Valenzuela showed he could handle pressure against Cruz, but Russell’s relentless style will test his endurance and composure.
- Momentum and Stakes: Valenzuela is riding high after his title win, while Russell is looking to bounce back from his first loss. Both fighters have a lot to prove, making this a high-stakes encounter.
Jose Valenzuela – 110
Antuanne Russell – 110
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 28, 2025
