By James Blears

They fought as amateurs and Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15KOs) edged it, so now as professionals their destinies are again in line to collide - but this time Leo Santa Cruz (31-0-1, 17KOs) is determined to walk away with the victory.

At the World Boxing Council's spectacular Convention in Kunming, China, Leo who's been WBC super bantamweight champion, and is currently the WBC Diamond featherweight champion, says the next step is to take on Russell, who holds the WBC's full title at 126-pounds and defends it next Saturday night against Oscar Escandon.

Santa Cruz moved up to the featherweight division in August and defeated Abner Mares to capture the vacant WBA championship.

Leo said: "I want that WBC belt, and the ambition is to fight against Gary Russell. Gary is really quick, and he moves a lot. But with my pressure, staying on top of him, breaking him down - I know that I can beat him.

"We fought as amateurs and it was really close. They gave it to him, so I want to get my rematch and see how it goes."

Leo is fresh from his triumph in a strong candidate for "Fight of the Year" against Mares. 

"Mares was saying he was going to beat me. I was no opponent for him and I was going to see what it was like to fight an A-level fighter like him. But I myself said I'm ready for him or anyone else."

Leo also explained about the personal challenge and iron resolve of maintaining an undefeated record as a professional boxer. 

"I have to train harder and harder every time, because the more I'm winning and getting up there - the more fighters want to defeat you. You have to work twice as hard, go out there and be motivated all the time, and that's what I do. I stay motivated, as I want to stay undefeated. I want to retire undefeated and hopefully become a great fighter."