Fighters in today’s day and age have a ton of interest outside of boxing. Some, such as Adrien Broner, dabble in the music world. Others, like Stephen Fulton, enjoy browsing online for the latest name-brand clothing.

None of those previously mentioned hobbies are a bad thing. Some fighters, even the elites, need to unplug and get away. With that said, when it comes to Gary Antuanne Russell, he lives, sleeps, and breathes boxing.

There’s nothing Russell enjoys more. For countless hours a day, the 27-year-old puts on his gladiator helmet, straps on his gear, and prepares himself for war. So far, his work ethic when the lights aren't shining, has allowed him to perform when they're flickered on.

In 17 pro fights, Russell has been perfect, winning all of his bouts by stoppage. When last seen, that trend continued.

On August 12th, at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, the previously undefeated Kent Cruz was brutally stopped in the opening round. Practically everyone around the boxing globe has taken notice of Russell’s killer mentality. In terms of where he gets it from, Russell believes that he was born with it but more importantly, he’s nurtured it.

“I’m in the gym faithfully,” said Russell to a group of reporters. “When we step in the square it’s up to you or me to be victorious. There’s gotta be a loser and I know for a fact I’m not laying down for nobody.”

At this stage, Russell is ostensibly on the verge of landing a title shot. Recently, the hard-hitting young star revealed that if the decision was up to him, he would love to face Regis Prograis for his WBC trinket. Whether or not Russell lands his shot is somewhat extraneous. All in all, no matter who he faces next, Russell is convinced that the work he puts in and that red organ beating inside of his chest will always give him the edge.

“My determination is just different from everybody else.”