Russell Jr. and Martinez in great shape

World Boxing Council featherweight champion Gary Russell JR. (29-1, 17 KOs) will defend his crown this Saturday at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, against Spaniard Francisco “Kiko” Martinez (39-8-2, 28 KOs) who is ranked third.

Both warriors participated in a public training at the legendary Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, where they showed that they are in excellent condition to get into the ring this Saturday.

This was what they commented at the end of their training:

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“My opponent knows who he’s getting into the ring with. Anyone who has an extended time to prepare for a fight is a dangerous opponent, we do not underestimate anyone, but I do not think he’s better than me.

“We do not see that this fight goes the distance. Martinez has no other way to fight but to move forward. We will control it with our jab and he will not be able to overcome it. You have to be able to make adjustments.”

KIKO MARTINEZ

“I am very happy to have this fight here in New York.  I am very grateful to everyone who made this happen and I am going to make the most of it.

There are no excuses for this fight. I’ve been training for the last few months and I’ve prepared well for Gary Russell Jr. I’m better than Gary Russell Jr. I have everything in me to beat him and be world champion again.

I think Russell is the best featherweight in the world. After Saturday, that will be my place in the division. All my fights have led me to this and they have given me what I need.”