I think it will be an exciting match. I have seen plays of Russell and indeed he is a great boxer. His footwork, form, speed and powerful punches. His stamina could keep up until the 12th but I guess it will depend on how this opponent might bring up during the first rounds. The only thing I have noticed was somehow he struggles with his reach especially with taller opponent but nothing else. With Magsayo, I think he was trained very well. He has this powerful punches that I am hoping to see during this fight. He just needs to know how to land them properly. Hopefully he could keep up with Russell until the end of the round. I have seen some of his KO fights and I think he surges early, might fatigue early too.
This is a good match for Gary Russell and a great challenge for Mark Magsayo to achieve his dream. He is undefeated coming from a sensational KO win against Julio Ceja, so Russell knows how strong his punch is and he will prepare for that fight well to defend his belt. I'm rooting for the challenger here.
I would also route for Magsayo in this fight. Not that I see it would be easy but I like to be surprised on how he will be handling the holder. Russell do know how to play the fight. I have also watched the fight between Magsayo and Ceja and it was a clear KO though the had some difficulties on his part. Ceja was a bit aggressive and they both got tired half way. I think Magsayo could pull this out if he does the same with Russell because I think he could tire him for sure.