Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela to Defend WBA Super Lightweight Title Against Gary Antuanne Russell on March 1

WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Jose "Rayo" Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs) is gearing up to defend his title against one of the division’s top contenders, Gary Antuanne Russell (16-0, 12 KOs), in a thrilling co-main event on Saturday, March 1, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, as part of a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.

Valenzuela, who captured the WBA Super Lightweight title in his last fight by dethroning Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, plans to make a statement in his first world title defense. Speaking on the upcoming fight, Valenzuela shared his thoughts on his opponent: "I don’t believe that Gary Antuanne Russell belongs here with me," said Valenzuela. "He’s a strong, solid, durable fighter. He’s good, but I think he’s a little stiff when I look at him more. I worked my ass off to get here, and this is a bit of a handout for him. I took two tough losses and came back from hell to get the ‘Pitbull’ Cruz fight and conquer that. Russell has had everything given to him, and I think it’s gonna show on March 1."

A Victory to Remember

Valenzuela’s victory over Pitbull Cruz was a defining moment in his career. The 25-year-old fighter dominated Cruz, showcasing his versatility by outboxing the feared action fighter over 12 rounds. Valenzuela reflected on his performance: "My mentality going into the ‘Pitbull’ fight was that I was gonna show that I’m a more diverse fighter than I got credit for, not just a knockout puncher. I have a full arsenal. I showed my poise in the ring and I showed my ring generalship. There were a lot of little things that I did that had a major effect in the fight."

With his victory, Valenzuela earned a place among the top names in the 140-pound division, and now looks to continue his upward trajectory in boxing. He attributes much of his success to the guidance of Robert Garcia, the renowned trainer he’s been working with since his comeback.

"Having Robert Garcia in my corner gives me a lot of confidence," Valenzuela said. "He's really fixed my fundamentals. Everything comes together nicely when we’re working together. This training camp is going great. I’ve been conquering every day with hard work."

A High-Stakes Defense

Looking ahead to the showdown with Russell, Valenzuela predicts a fan-friendly, action-packed fight. "Stylistically, it’s a great matchup with him being a lefty and coming with the high guard marching forward," said Valenzuela. "Gary is a lot taller than ‘Pitbull’. I knew I could dance around ‘Pitbull’, but with Gary I think I’m gonna have to fight through him."

Russell, trained by his brother, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr., is a former U.S. Olympian with an undefeated record, and he presents a significant challenge for Valenzuela in his first title defense. Despite the challenge, Valenzuela is focused and determined to prove himself as the top fighter in the division.

The Road to the Top

"Taking on Gary Antuanne for my first title defense says a lot about me," said Valenzuela. "People have to respect it. My name is on the radar because of the kind of opposition I’m going up against."

Valenzuela has his sights set on the top of the division, with a strong belief in his ability to overcome any contender. "I think I’m at the top of this division with guys like Teofimo Lopez and Alberto Puello," he said. "I believe strongly that I can beat all of these guys. It’s just a matter of taking it one fight at a time. Gary Antuanne Russell is in the way of where I’m trying to get to. I’ve got my full attention on him and I give him his respect. But there’s more that I want to do. My story is gonna continue after this."

As the March 1 showdown approaches, all eyes will be on this exciting defense of the WBA Super Lightweight title, where Jose "Rayo" Valenzuela aims to solidify his place as one of the premier fighters in the 140-pound division.