Jhonny Gonzalez: I Intend To Knock Gary Russell Out

By Miguel Rivera

WBC featherweight champion Jhonny Gonzalez is not looking to take any chances with the scorecards when Gary Russell Jr. on the 28th of March at the Palms in Las Vegas. He is going to attempt to knocking the former Olympian out. This past Saturday, Gonzalez stepped on the scale for the WBC's mandated 30-day weighin and came in at 133-pounds. His training camp continues with Hall of Fame coach Nacho Beristain. Showtime will televise their contest.

"We returned to Las Vegas where we have good memories. We've been there and had a couple of defeats but we have learned much from each of them. We will not make the mistakes of the past. I also have a left-handed opponent in front of me, who is different from the opponents that I've faced,. He is more boxer, skilled, he puts his combinations together well, but we will continue to work for the day of the fight," Gonzalez told ESPN Deportes.

"I have power in my knuckles. We have worked on that aspect and when he feels my punch the fight will change. My intention is to finish him by knockout, because sometimes in Las Vegas they have very controversial decisions, and we've learned that. We are working to win, but if I can knock him then it's better."

The current plan remains the same. Beat Russell in March and then move forward to a rematch with Abner Mares in June and then Leo Santa Cruz in September.

"There has been talk of a plan of work for me, which was first Gary Russel, then the rematch with Mares and then in September with Leo Santa Cruz. These are the plans, and I feel motivated. I hope it's my best year. I am working very hard in the gym," Gonzalez said.