Boxing: Gary Antuanne Russell at Andy Hiraoka Odds & Prediction

Game Info

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026

Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Ringwalks: Approximately 6:44 PM PT / 9:44 PM ET

Betting Odds

Currently, the market favors the defending champion, but the unbeaten challenger remains a strong underdog in this matchup between Gary Antuanne Russell and Andy Hiraoka.

Gary Antuanne Russell: -350 (1/3)

Andy Hiraoka: +250 (23/10)

Draw: +1600 (16/1)

Gary Antuanne Russell Betting Preview

Gary Antuanne Russell steps into this match as the WBA champion, following a strong comeback against Jose Valenzuela in 2025. With an impressive 94% knockout rate, “The Last” Russell is recognized for his unyielding and dominating pressure style. The only mark on his record was a controversial split-decision loss to Alberto Puello, but he has since made up for that by winning the title.

For bettors, Russell is the more reliable choice because he has shown he can handle high-pressure situations and comes from the well-known Russell boxing family. To win this fight, he needs to get in close quickly to counter Hiraoka’s notable reach advantage.

Andy Hiraoka Betting Preview

Japan’s Andy “The Blade” Hiraoka is getting ready for his highly anticipated return in Las Vegas, holding an impressive unbeaten record of 24-0. At nearly 6 feet tall with a reach of 74 inches, Hiraoka is certainly a tough competitor in the junior welterweight category. He earned this match following an outstanding 9th-round TKO win against the experienced Ismael Barroso. Hiraoka shines in mid-to-long-range combat, effectively utilizing a sharp jab and a strong straight left.

If you’re betting on the underdog in the Gary Antuanne Russell at Andy Hiraoka fight, you’re hoping he can use his 5-inch reach advantage to maintain some distance from the champ and possibly catch Russell as he approaches.

Matchup Facts

Reach Disparity: Hiraoka has a notable reach advantage of 5 inches (74″ compared to 69″).

Southpaw Clash: Both fighters are naturally left-handed, which often makes their match feel like a tactical “chess game” centered around lead-foot positioning.

KO Records: Together, these two have defeated 36 of their 43 opponents, suggesting that this match likely won’t go the full 12 rounds.

Title Stakes: This is Russell’s first defense of the WBA junior welterweight title after he took it from Valenzuela.

Gary Antuanne Russell at Andy Hiraoka Prediction

This fight is a classic clash between a pressure cooker and a sniper. Hiraoka has stayed undefeated in Japan, but going up against Gary Antuanne Russell is a significant challenge. Russell is famous for his lightning-fast hands and outstanding inside fighting skills. Look for Hiraoka to find some early success due to his reach, but as the match progresses into the championship rounds, Russell’s unyielding body shots are likely to wear him down.

Sportbook AG Final Prediction: Gary Antuanne Russell by TKO in Round 10.