Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin undercard virtual press conference quotes featuring Gary Antuanne Russell, Alberto Puello, Carlos Adames & Terrell Gausha
Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by the Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin and David Benavidez vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk title showdowns previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference on Thursday before they step into the ring on Saturday, June 15 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Featured during the virtual presser were undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title; plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener.
Headlining the stacked lineup is undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.
In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL: “I want to bring boxing back to its natural state. I want to climb the ladder and fight who I’m supposed to. I want to fight the guys with great credentials. We’re going to keep working toward the top.
“Puello is another opponent who’s in the way. There’s a lot of opponents and they’re all in the way. We’re on a mission and I plan to execute.
“My focus is so locked in right now. It’s hard for me to say he’s got a chance, not to be disrespectful. My father always said there’s three types of fighters: those who need it, those who want it and those who like it. And they all bring a different level of hunger. I’m all three of them, but instead of liking it, I love it.
“I love the bright lights. It’s part of my life. It’s really second nature. This is my world now. At this point, I just want to excel.
“I know my dad would tell me to hit and not get hit, keep your hands high, don’t relax. Right now he’s here in spirit, and I will spontaneously hear certain things that he’ll say to me. I want to honor his name and make sure that all he worked for does not go in vain.”
ALBERTO PUELLO: “I’m thrilled to be back on such a tremendous card on June 15. I’m going to give the best of myself in the ring like I always do, and give the fans what they deserve, which is a great fight.
“Gary is a good fighter, but he’s not the one who’s gonna stop my momentum. I’m going in there to get the win.
“I know this is not going to be an easy fight. But I possess all the tools needed to stop Gary or any opponent in front of me.
“I have to follow the game plan. I’m working hard every day, having great sparring sessions and getting ready to be at my best on June 15.
“’The Wasp’ is coming back to sting like never before. I’m ready to make a statement and prove that I’m at the top of this division.
“This fight could definitely steal the show. This opponent is a tough nut to crack, but I know that we’re going to give the fans an unforgettable fight.”
CARLOS ADAMES: “I’m very excited to be stepping into the ring once again. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring, but I’ve been in the gym for a long time getting into the best shape possible mentally and physically.
“I want to make a really big statement. Not just for me, but for my supporters. I owe it to everyone who helped me get here. I made a commitment to be on top and I like to keep my promises.
“I’m not concerned about Gausha’s resume or who he’s fought, because I’m the best fighter he’s gonna face. I’m the best fighter in the 160-pound division, so he better be ready for what he’s coming up against. I’m not underestimating anyone, but I’m not worried about his experience.
“June 15 is going to be full of spectacle and fireworks, because I’m relentless in the ring. My opponents know everything is on the line when they step in against me. I’m definitely going to show I’m the best middleweight in the world.
“Gausha has the reputation of a guy who’s hard to knock down, but he hasn’t felt my power yet. I’ll tip my hat to him if he can go the distance. Either way, I’m not focusing on the knockout. I’m making sure I’m ready for anything that happens in the ring.
“I was truly happy to be elevated to world champion on my birthday. That news was just the cherry on top of my birthday. What I really wanted was for Jermall Charlo to fight me, but he made his choice.”
TERRELL GAUSHA: “I’m very confident and blessed to be in this position. I’m one of the type of guys that you can’t just run over. I’m the easiest person to make a fight with, because I don’t fear anybody.
“Carlos Adames is a very solid fighter who brings a lot to the table. Everyone has holes and I’ve been watching him since I moved up to middleweight. I know he brings the action and I’ve been preparing for a fight like this.
“I’m more comfortable now at middleweight. I can just focus on training, because I’m already on weight. I don’t make any excuses, but getting down to 154 put more wear and tear on my body.
“I fight the best. That’s what I do. We’ll see come June 15 who the best is. Styles make fights. I don’t fear him and he doesn’t fear me. That’s gonna make it an exciting fight for the fans.
“I’m just ready to get what’s mine. I’m here for a reason. I don’t take this opportunity lightly. There’s no pressure for me. I’m just looking to go put on a great show.
“I feel confident coming into this fight. We’re putting the work in. I never cut corners and I’m a true professional. I’m coming to get the win. I have a great team behind me and we’re prepared for sure.”