Gary Russell Jr. vs. Vasyl Lomachenko
Photo by Chris Farina/Top Rank
Lou Catalano, Staff Writer
It’s absurd to think that Vasyl Lomachenko, with a pro record of 1-1, has the better resume than the 24-0 fighter. But that’s what happens when you fight an assortment of ticket brokers, Wall Street traders, and the guy from the Allstate commercials. Russell has brilliant hand speed and is certainly the flashier fighter, but Lomachenko had a legendary amateur career and has already been in two tough fights as a pro.
There’s no doubt that Russell has the talent, but is he the real deal? There’s just not enough evidence yet to prove one way or the other.
I’ve gone back and forth on this fight, but I’m going with Lomachenko for the win.
Prediction: Lomachenko
Lenin Acevedo, Photographer
A chess match indeed. I’m really not sure who will win this fight. It’s definitely a 50/50 chance for both fighters. In my opinion, the boxer who becomes the brawler in this bout will come out on top.
Vasyl Lomachenko is a natural talent, but I think he’s a bit “brawler shy.” He’s afraid to step out of his comfort zone and I think this will hurt his chances.
Gary Russell Jr. is great boxer, but he has shown a thirst for brawling in the past, and this gives him an edge. Russell Jr. wins this bout.
Prediction: Russell Jr.
Alex Burgos, Editor-in-Chief
For me, this bout is the main event. Two young, talented fighters with different opinions on how to become a successful professional boxer. On one hand Vasyl Lomachenko jumped into the professional ranks head first, getting a title shot against the always-tough Orlando Salido in only his second bout.
On the other hand, Gary Russell Jr. has consistently shown off his skill for over four years, building up a 24-0 record against cab drivers. For the decorated Ukrainian, things didn’t go as planned against Salido as the Mexican veteran came in bigger, stronger and dirtier than Lomachenko thought. It can be argued that regardless of competition, the experience of professional rounds is key to the development of a fighter and regardless of Lomachenko’s amateur accolades, Russell Jr. is in a better position at this point in time.
This matchup is so intriguing because both men can quiet critics with a victory and show that their particular path to becoming champion was the correct one. I believe that Lomachenko’s defense is not the best and he can be hit often. Against the fastest hands in boxing, that could mean trouble. If Russell Jr. boxes and puts together quick combinations, he can befuddle the two-time Olympic gold medalist and cruise to a victory. It still remains to be seen how Russell Jr. takes a punch against someone with power, which Lomachenko surely has.
Tough call, but I think Russell Jr. takes this one by decision.
Prediction: Russell Jr.
