Russell Brothers Targeting Trifecta

History is truly on the line for the Russell brothers right now. The Enigma Boxing Club in Capitol Heights, Maryland, is the fistic home of a former world champion right now. However, two more men are trying to follow that same honor. If they do, they will become the first trio of brothers to hold all major boxing titles.

On July 30, 2016 US Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (15-0, 15 KO) is set to make his second appearance of the year against former Jr. lightweight and lightweight Titleist Rances Barthelemy. With the win, the 26-year-old will inch one step closer to a title shot at Jr. welterweight.

The family has had a lot of problems inside and outside the ring. Brother Gary Boosa died of a heart attack in 2020. In May, Father Gary Russel Sr. passed away at the age of 63. Similarly, 2008 Olympian Gary Russell Jr. (31-2, 18 KO) lost the WBC featherweight title against Mark Magsayo despite a valiant effort.

Despite the problems, the family stands united and committed. Until now, only Japan’s Kameda brothers (Koki, Daiki, and Tomoki) have achieved the feat of holding all the big titles at the same time. Gary Antuanne and older brother Gary Antonio have a fantastic opportunity to add Russell’s name to this exclusive list.

“I think I’m coming up against a fighting style that’s similar to Viktor Postol’s. Postol was more of a defensive, disciplined type of fighter. Barthelemy, he’s more of a hands down, Cuban style. But as far as being long, rangy, I think it’s going to be identical.” Antuanne said.