MATTHEW MACKLIN HASN’T given up on his world title dream.
But first he needs to show America that he’s still one of the middleweight big boys.
The “Tipp Tornado” returns to the ring tonight against the undefeated Lamar Russ (14-0, 7 KOs).
The Atlantic City fight, which is on the undercard of Guillermo Rigondeaux versus Joseph Agbeko, will be screened live by HBO.
And a win on primetime TV could propel Macklin back into the title picture.
The 31-year-old has already had three shots at becoming world champion but lost to Felix Sturm, Sergio Martinez and most recently Gennady Golovkin, who knocked him out inside three rounds last June.
Macklin told ESPN: “I have fought a few times and feel like I’m one of the top names at middleweight.
“I just need to bounce back here after fighting Gennady with a big win and get another title chance next year.”
Macklin, who has former British foe Jamie Moore in his corner tonight, was due to face another American, Willie Nelson.
But Nelson pulled out with an elbow injury and 26-year-old Russ, who has yet to be beaten in four years as a pro, snapped up the chance.
“He’s undefeated so he has confidence,” Macklin said. “He’s good.
“It’s a step up for him. He’ll be ambitious. It’s a good opportunity for him so I need to be sharp and on the ball.”
