Hard-hitting Magsayo should show variety on offense to beat Russell, says analyst

Mark Magsayo will have to dig deep and get out of his comfort zone if he wants to emerge victorious against WBC world featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr., according to veteran boxing analyst Ed Tolentino.

Magsayo, who holds a perfect record of 23-0 with 16 knockouts, will vie for a world title for the first time against Russell Jr. on January 23 (PH time) at the Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, USA.

“He has to be careful going in. He cannot outmuscle Russell on his way because the latter has fast hands so Magsayo will get caught coming in. He will not catch him off guard because Russell knows what to do,” said Tolentino.

“I would like to see some variety from Magsayo's punches. Sometimes he loads up his shots and that makes him predictable on offense. When Lomachenko defeated Russell, it was exposed that Russell is susceptible to the uppercut and right hook.”

Tolentino also pointed out that while Magsayo is known for his immense punching power, he tends to leave himself open when on the attack. For Tolentino, it would be wise for Magsayo to tighten up his defense because Russell is the type who can capitalize on openings.

“I would also like to see improvements on Magsayo's defense. I would to see him keep his guard up because Russell will unload on him and is a good body puncher. Russell is a good boxer, fast and complete,” Tolentino stressed.

—JMB, GMA News