By Ron Harris

June 15, 2024

Las Vegas – On a split decision, Gary Antuanne Russell lost his first fight as a pro and his first fight since the 2016 Olympics, both coming on questionable scoring.  Alberto Peullo, from the Dominican Republic becomes the World Boxing Council Interim champion at 140 pounds and is in line for a title shot.  The scores were 118-109 for Russell, 115-112 and 114-113 for Peullo.  Judges have had a bad year so far in 2024.  Many observers thought Russell did not get credit for blocking several of Peullo’s counters.  Peullo landed several good shots, but not enough to win a decision. 

Russell came into this fight with a 17-0 record, with 17 knockouts.  Peullo, a former champion, was Russell’s toughest opponent to date.  Antuanne started fast as he normally does, but his blows seem to have no effect on Peullo, who stood 2 inches over Russell with longer arms.  His plan was to counter Russell all night.  Russell put pressure on the southpaw Peullo every round.  This was southpaw Russell’s first lefty opponent, and it was clear he was trying to figure him out all night. 

“It wasn’t about what Peullo did tonight, it was about what I didn’t do,” says Russell.  “I should have listened more and executed more.  I always say, if I execute our game plan, it’s a matter of fact I will get the victory, but tonight I fell short.” 

Peullo was the happiest man on earth.  “It was the best I have ever fought in my life. The hard work being away from my family finally paid off.  Bring anybody on, I don’t care.  I’m ready to face all comers.”  Neither fighter got rocked or hurt.  Russell came forward most of the night, but just couldn’t hurt Peullo.  

It will be interesting to see how a young undefeated fighter will come back from his first defeat.  The fighting Russell family has seen everything in boxing.  They still miss their leader, Gary Russell Sr but Gary Jr. is a no-nonsense trainer, and he will get “The Last” fighting Russell ready for his next fight. 

Photo credit:  Esther Lin

Ron Harris, retired college administrator, coach, broadcaster, Internet and TV sports producer and host. Former radio host of a live call-in show.  Extremely close to the sports landscape in the Washington, DC metro area. Former radio sports reporter, covering MLB, college sports, major boxing events and much more.