Canadian light heavyweight Anthony “The Rowdy One” Russell (16-2-1, 5 KOs) isn’t expecting a warm welcome when he steps into the ring this Friday at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago to face Poland’s Andrzej Fonfara for the NABO title.
Polish fighters in Chicago are like rock stars.
While some might feel intimidated, Russell has an interesting way of looking at the situation. “How’s it going to affect me? The question is how is that going to affect him? That’s pressure is on him. I hope he fights the fan’s fight, because if he does, he’ll make more mistakes. Once that bell rings, there are two guys fighting. I just hope the referee isn’t his uncle.”
Russell, originally from Kitchener, Ontario, but now residing in Brockton, Massachusetts, had 131 amateur fights and was the National Canadian Light-Heavyweight Champion in 2002. He won the Ontario Provincial Championship five times.
“I studied film on him like I was taking a test,” admits Russell. “I got an A+ on everything I studied. He’s pretty one dimensional. He’s thinking he is going to come out and fight like a puncher and come at me. I’m going to take him apart. I’m just as strong and I’m much faster.”
Russell turned pro in 2002 and even fought former world cruiserweight champion Ola Afolabi to a draw early in his career. However, the 26 year old has only had one fight since 2007.
Does he think the inactivity will affect him? “Actually in a very positive way. I’ve been in the gym for six months and took a tune-up fight and did great. Look, the greats like Floyd Mayweather fight once every year. In fact, Floyd has fought only twice in 18 months and still doesn’t have anything scheduled, but when he gets in the ring he looks great. You learn your craft sparring and working out. Either you can fight or you can’t! I’ve sparred hundreds of rounds, plus I can fight. So I got some good-needed rest. I’m in my mid 20’s and feel great. I’m going to win this NABO title in Andrzej Fonfara’s backyard. I know it!”
