Gary Antuanne Russell vs Isaac Pitbull is being talked about for the summer of 2026 as a fight, a look at styles and how they match up.
This is another example of solid matchmaking we are seeing again overall in current boxing news.
Both can be in very entertaining fights at times, particularly Mexican Cruz.
Some notes on how it might look as a matchup if it is agreed soon:
- Russell is a taller, longer southpaw. Cruz is a shorter pressure fighter.
- Cruz marches forward behind a high guard. Russell fights from distance.
- Russell throws sharp combinations. Cruz digs body punches in close.
- Cruz has an iron chin. He doesn’t react to big shots.
- Russell has good athleticism and footwork. Cruz struggles against movement.
- Cruz wants to close range. Russell wants to keep him outside.
- Russell lost once via split decision to Puello.
- Cruz last fought a draw with Lamont Roach.
- Cruz’s pressure could test Russell’s stamina.
- Russell’s length and precision could frustrate Cruz.
Some might call it Russell’s boxing vs Cruz’ come forward Mexican pressure.
But Isaac Cruz can box a bit himself as well.
The smaller weight classes are producing some of the best boxers in the world at the moment pound for pound overall, it must be said, this another great fight for the smaller weight classes if it is made soon.
As well as the likes of Jessie Bam Rodriguez vs Naoye Inoue also being talked abut.