Gary Russell Jr. made the wrong kind of news as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.
Russell never threw a punch at the Beijing Games because he missed his weigh-in – and was subsequently disqualified – after collapsing in his room as a result of his efforts to make the 119-pound weight limit.
Of course, he was devastated. His dream died. However, 11-plus years later, he can take some solace. He arguably is the second-most successful professional from the 2008 U.S. team.
Here is a ranking of that team according to professional accomplishments.
NO. 1 DEONTAY WILDER
Olympics results: Bronze medal
Pro record: 42-0-1 (41 KOs)
Titles won: Heavyweight (2015-current)
Notable victims: Bermane Stiverne (twice), Chris Arreola, Luis Ortiz (twice)
Summary: Wilder is clearly the class of the 2008 U.S. team. He has become known for arguably the hardest punch – his big right hand – in the history of the sport. And he has endured. He has made 10 successful title defenses, which equals Muhammad Ali for fifth most in a single heavyweight reign.