By Adrian Stewart Co

Mark Magsayo targets Gary Russell Jr.’s WBC world featherweight belt when the two fighters clash on Saturday night (Sunday in the Philippines) at the Borgota Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The Tagbilaran City, Bohol-native Magsayo promised to give his all against Russell as he hopes to fulfill his dream of taking home a world boxing champion.

Magsayo earned the mandatory world title shot against Russell following an impressive 10th round stoppage victory against Julio Ceja in August, 2021.

“This is the fight that I want and have been working hard to get for years. I am going to come to win and to make the most of this chance,” Magsayo said in an interview with Boxingscene.

“I am grateful to Showtime boxing for giving me this rare opportunity to fight for a world championship,” the Boholano boxer further said.

Magsayo knew that it won’t be an easy fight as Russell is on a winning run since capturing his world championship at the expense of veteran Jhonny Gonzalez.

“There is a reason why Gary is the WBC featherweight champion, but, also, there is a reason why I became the mandatory challenger,” said Magsayo.

“This is going to be a great fight for me to show the world what Filipinos are made of. I’ve had a long road to get to this position and I will be fighting in honor of everyone who helped me get here,” he added.

The 26-year-old Magsayo will be entering the match with an untarnished 23-0-0 win-loss-draw ring record, with 16 of his victories coming by way of stoppages.

The 33-year-old Russell, on the other hand, will be parading a 31-1-0 boxing record, including 18 triumphs via knockout. He is also undefeated in his last seven matches./ASC, WDJ