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Gary Antuanne Russel vs Andy Hiraoka Preview: Odds, Tips, & Prediction

Date: Saturday, 21 February 2026 Ring-walk time: 10:00 PM ET Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas Gary Antuanne Russell and Andy Hiraoka clash as Russell makes his first defense of his WBA Super Lightweight title at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, 21 February 2026. It is set to be an exciting fight as Russell’s devastating power matches up against Hiraoka’s aggression. If you are keen to place wagers on this fight, you can check out some of the best US boxing betting sites for extra value for your betslip.

Thierry Henry
Nigel Naicker

Last updated: 2026-02-11

Chad Nagel

2 minutes read

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Gary Antuanne Russel (in green short) from Maryland

Gary Antuanne Russel / Getty Images

Pre-Fight Odds and Win Probability

As the fight approaches, Russell is the favourite to beat Hiraoka. You can check out some of the top online bookmakers in the US that have competitive odds available for this fight. 

  1. Gary Antuanne Russel: 3/10 (1.30)

  2. Andy Hiraoka: 9/4 (3.25)

    Odds courtesy of BetMGM are subject to change. 

Tale of the Tape

AttributeGary Antuanne RusselAndy Hiraoka 
Age 2929
Height5’10” (178cm)5’11.5” (182cm)
Reach 69” (175cm)74” (188cm)
Stance SouthpawSouthpaw
Record18-1-024-0-0
KO Wins 17/94%19/79%
Total Rounds Boxed70123
Weight Class/RoundsSuper Lightweight/12Super Lightweight/12
Titles HeldWBA Super LightweightNone
Last five results W (Title win), W KO, W TKO, W UD, W KOW UD, W KO, W UD, W KO, W TKO
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Gary Antuanne Russel News

After winning the WBA belt in 2025, Russell has been in great form. The 29-year-old comes into the fight with no issues and should be raring to go in his first title defense. 

Keys for Antuanne Russel to Win

Russell must use his southpaw to disrupt Hiraoka’s rhythm and his aggression to force some exchanges where he can use his superior KO rate. He must also maintain composure as Hiraoka is a skilled fighter.  

Andy Hiraoka News

Hiraoka comes into the fight on an unbeaten streak, and he is in great shape as he steps up for his first shot at a world title. The Japanese have lots of aggression as well as experience. 

Keys for Hiraoka to Win 

The 29-year-old must apply constant pressure so he can close the gap and overwhelm Russel with volume punches. He must use his tactical ability to make the fight go the distance. 

Suggested Bets

  1. Gary Antuanne Russel to win: The champ is the heavy favourite. (Forecast odds: 1/3 with FanDuel)

  2. Fight to go the distance (No): Both these fighters have high KO rates, so expect fireworks. (Forecast odds: 4/5 with DraftKings) 

Value Bets

These value bets give you an extra edge for your betslip. 

  1. Andy Hiraoka by KO/TKO: Hiraoka is coming into the fight in great form and has the ability to strike with a KO/TKO. (Forecast odds: 9/2 with BetMGM) 

  2. Gary Antuanne Russel by KO/TKO: Russel has elite finishing ability. (Forecast odds: 6/5 with BetMGM) 

Prediction: Russell By KO/TKO

Russel and Hiraoka clash with the WBA Super Lightweight championship on the line in Las Vegas, and all signs point to a Russel victory. Hiraoka is coming into the fight on an unbeaten streak, so it will be a tight encounter, but the champion is the favourite to retain his belt. 

Thierry Henry
Nigel NaickerBetting Writer

Nigel Naicker is a versatile sportswriter with extensive experience covering major global tournaments, including the Premier League, AFCON, and the Champions League. His knowledge stretches across soccer, UFC, cricket, and several other sports. In recent years, he has also expanded his expertise into sports gambling content and more specialised sporting niches.