Russell Jr finally makes catch weight- Hyland’s title bid safe for now

Irish fight fans were left confused as to whether or not Gary Russell Jr’s failure to register his weight for the WBC mandated 30-day check weight was a good or bad thing.

The news suggested that the WBC featherweight champion, who is set to defend his title against the Tallaght puncher on April 16 at the Foxwoods Resort, in Mashantucket, was struggling to make weight, which might be good news for the Hyland’s chances come fight night.

However, there were suggestions his failure to meet WBC rules might force the organisation to strip the American and considering Hyland is a voluntary and not mandatory defence he may not get an immediate shot at the vacant strap.

Russell Jr has since registered his weight with the WBC and came in at 135 pounds, which is within the organisations allowable weight limit.

Hyland, 32, was on time for his weigh-in, as he weighed in on Friday at 137.7lbs.