Gary Antuanne Russell Defends Andy Hiraoka After Disputed Decision

WBA junior welterweight champion backs former mandatory challenger after close fight sparks scoring debate

Gary Antuanne Russell kept his WBA junior welterweight belt on February 21, but the debate over the fight has not faded. The champion quickly defended Andy Hiraoka’s standing in the division after a section of viewers argued the challenger had done enough to win.

Russell (18-1, 17 KOs) retained the title by unanimous decision, yet the reaction to the bout remained divided. Hiraoka (23-2, 18 KOs) landed several of the heavier shots during exchanges and forced Russell to clinch.

The champion addressed the reaction directly on social media, pointing to Hiraoka’s long position as the WBA mandatory challenger.

“Andy would’ve beaten Richard Hitchins, Teo and he would’ve dominated Smith as well as Matias. He been the WBA mandatory for 5yrs why nobody fought him? Why 4 former champions paid him step aside money if he was so easy. Wake up yall.”

Russell’s argument centers on Hiraoka’s reputation inside the division. The challenger had held the WBA mandatory slot for several years, a position that often places fighters in difficult negotiations with champions and promoters.

Step-aside payments are common when sanctioning bodies enforce mandatory positions that clash with planned fights. Russell claimed several former champions chose that route rather than facing Hiraoka in the ring.

The fight itself created the discussion. Hiraoka’s left hand connected clean during several exchanges, and Russell often tied him up or moved laterally after the action closed at short range. The rounds stayed competitive deep into the bout and neither fighter showed signs of fading late.

Some observers also noted the travel involved. Hiraoka arrived from Japan shortly before the fight and dealt with a significant time-zone shift. Even so, his workrate remained steady through the championship rounds.

Russell’s defense of Hiraoka suggests the champion views the challenger as a legitimate problem for other fighters at 140 pounds. If that assessment holds true, the bout may not be the last time their paths cross.

For now, the official result stands. Russell kept the WBA belt. The argument over how the fight was scored continues around the division.