Gary Antuanne Russell Retains WBA Title Over Andy Hiraoka Amid Boos

Boxing News

by Ken Woods

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Gary Antuanne Russell successfully defended his WBA super lightweight title against Andy Hiraoka in a bout marked by a lackluster crowd reception, with boos heard throughout the venue. Despite securing his belt, Russell faced criticism for an underwhelming performance, which raised questions about his dominance in the ring. The fight, held at a prominent boxing venue, saw Russell edge out Hiraoka through a split-decision victory, though many fans and analysts felt the outcome was far from a standout display. The bout, widely anticipated as a showcase of Russell's skills, was marred by a lack of excitement. Many viewers and spectators criticized both fighters for their cautious approaches, with some suggesting that the fight lacked the intensity and drama expected in a title defense. While Hiraoka put up a valiant effort, his inability to capitalize on opportunities ultimately led to his defeat. Russell, however, managed to secure the win through superior defensive strategies and technical precision, even if the performance fell short of his previous standards. The aftermath of the fight was equally notable, with fans expressing their disappointment both in person and online. The boos directed at Russell highlighted a growing sentiment among fans that he has not lived up to the hype surrounding his career. This reaction underscores the high expectations placed on top boxers to

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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/22/2026