Leo Santa Cruz wants a shot a Gary Russell Jr.

According to Leo Santa Cruz, he has his sights set on Gary Russell Jr. and his shiny green trinket. During the WBC's annual convention last week, Santa Cruz says although he lost to Russell Jr. in the amateurs, he's confident that he can upend the champion in the professional ranks.

"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."

Santa Cruz, who recently moved up in weight and put on a good showing against rival Abner Mares, believes he's now seasoned enough to take on all comers.

"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."

Yeah, anyone not named Rigondeaux (*cough cough*). Anyway, Santa Cruz says he feels the added pressure being an undefeated fighter and believes he has to work twice as hard so that he can maintain his unblemished record. According to Santa Cruz, remaining undefeated and going on to become a great champion is all the motivation he needs to outwork his opposition.