LAS VEGAS – Terrell Gausha is on the cusp of being where he has always wanted to be.
The 2012 Olympian from Ohio has been a pro for 12 years and on Saturday has the opportunity to sit atop the sport and fulfill his destiny.
He fights WBC middleweight titleholder Carlos Adames at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, and while it’s another big shot, the 24-3-1 (12 KOs) Gausha is ready to seize this opportunity.
“I’ve never shied away from competition,” said Gausha. “I’ve been a true professional every step of the way, fought all the guys. I fought one of the best at junior middleweight, Erislandy Lara, and now I’m ready. It’s my time now, and I feel like I’m going to win a world title.”
The 36-year-old challenger has also fought the likes of Austin Trout, Erickson Lubin and Tim Tszyu, and this could be his last chance to strike gold.
As a former Olympian, Gausha is used to pressure and expectation, even though the oddsmakers think Adames wins.
“It’s always pressure on us, because we’re at the highest level,” Gausha added. “At the highest level, there’s always going to be pressure. But we embrace that. We want that. And that’s what we live for. We’re ready for that.”
And while his life to this point might have always been pointed towards Saturday night, Gausha sees it as the MGM event shaping his entire journey to arrive here in Las Vegas, on the eve of his biggest night.
“Actually, it’s about the whole process,” he explained. “Everything leading up to this, it’s not just about tonight. It’s about all the work leading up to this. It’s about my whole life, since I was a baby, since 10 years old, growing up, amateur ranks, to the Olympics to now.”
Gausha-Adames makes up part of the show headlined by Gervonta Davis-Frank Martin, and Gausha has an interest in the main event and plans on watching it with his new belt around his waist.
“Of course, I like to be a fan of the fights. I’ve known Tank since he was younger,” Gausha added. “I’m a lot older than him, and it’s a blessing to be on that card. I’m ready to go and do my thing and be a part of history. I’m riding with Tank, to be honest. I think he can get the knockout. But I’ve got respect for Frank Martin. I think he’s a solid fighter, and we’ve gotta see.”
The priority is Adames, of course. Gausha has nothing but respect for the Dominican puncher, who is 23-1 (18 KOs).
“He’s a solid fighter, he’s explosive,” Gausha said. “He’s got power. He puts guys out. So for me to be able to knock him off, it will be a good statement for me.
“I don’t have concerns [about Adames]. I’m just ready. I’ve been watching him from the beginning. After I moved up to 160, I knew we’d be clashing, so I’m ready for it.”
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