Junior welterweight Alberto Puello is looking to put his past behind him as he aims to “steal the show” on June 15
Puello, the former WBA junior welterweight champion who stripped over a positive drug test result, will face 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell for the WBC interim junior welterweight title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The undefeated Puello (22-0, 10 KOs) returned to action last December, winning a unanimous decision over Stockton’s Ector Madera after serving a suspension having tested positive for Clomiphene. Puello, 29, was stripped of his WBA junior welterweight title which he had won via a split decision against Botirzhon Akhmedov in a vacant title fight in 2022 Puello, nicknamed “La Avispa” or “The Wasp,” faces Russell (17-0, 17 KOs), who is viewed as one of the most promising prospects/contenders in the sport.
“I know this is not going to be an easy fight, but I possess all the tools needed to stop Gary or any opponent in front of me,” said Puello, during a virtual press conference. “‘The Wasp’ is coming back to sting like never before. I’m ready to make a statement and prove that I’m at the top of this division.
Russell, 27, has won every professional fight by knockout. Russell’s last fight was a knockout of Kent Cruz in August, and the bout was stopped in the first round. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, Russell has only fought four times, which might be why his name isn’t often mentioned among the elite in the junior welterweight division. A respectful Puello applauded Russell’s talents.
“This fight could definitely steal the show,” said Puello. “This opponent is a tough nut to crack, but I know that we’re going to give the fans an unforgettable fight.”
Though Puello was never able to defend his title, he will now get a world title-like test when he faces Russell, who is moving up to the top of the division for the first-time in his professional career.
“I have to follow the game plan,” said Puello. “I’m working hard every day, having great sparring sessions and getting ready to be at my best on June 15.”