LAS VEGAS – Terrell Gausha is on the verge of getting to where he's always wanted to be.
The 2012 Olympian from Ohio has been playing professionally for 12 years now and on Saturday he had the opportunity to fulfill his destiny at the pinnacle of his sport.
He will face WBC middleweight titleholder Carlos Adames at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in another big-name matchup, but Gausha, who has a record of 24-3-1 (12 KOs), is determined to grab the opportunity.
“I've never shied away from competition,” Gausha said. “I've always been a true professional and I've fought everyone. I fought one of the best fighters in the junior middleweight division, Erislandy Lara, and now I'm ready. It's my turn. I feel like I can win a world title.”
The 36-year-old challenger has faced the likes of Austin Trout, Ericsson Rubin and Tim Chu, but this may be his final chance at a gold medal.
Gausha, a former Olympian, is used to the pressure and expectations, even if oddsmakers are predicting Adames will win.
“We're at the highest level, so there's always pressure,” Gausha added. “At the highest level, there's always pressure. But we embrace it. We want it. And that's what we live for. We're ready for it.”
While his life may have always been geared towards Saturday night, Gausha believes the MGM event shaped his entire journey, arriving here in Las Vegas on the eve of what would become his biggest night ever.
“Really, this is about the whole process,” he explained. “Everything that led up to this, it's not just about tonight. It's about all the work that went into this. It's about my whole life, from when I was a baby, to when I was 10, to growing up, from the amateur ranks to the Olympics, to now.”
Gausha vs. Adames will form part of a show headlined by Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin, with Gausha interested in the main event and planning to watch with his new belt around his waist.
“Obviously, I'm a fan of the fight and I've known Tank since he was a young guy,” Gausha added. “I'm a lot older than him, but I'm fortunate to be on this card. I'm ready to do what I have to do and be a part of history. To be honest, I'm on Tank's side. I think he can get the knockout, but I respect Frank Martin and I think he's a solid fighter and one to watch.”
Adames is obviously the top choice, and Gausha respects the Dominican puncher who has a 23-1 record (18 knockouts).
“He's a solid fighter, he's explosive,” Gausha said. “He's got power. He beats people, so if I can beat him, it'll be a good showing for me.”
“I'm not worried. [about Adames]I'm ready. I've been watching him since the beginning. I knew we were going to face each other when I moved up to 160 pounds, so I'm ready.”
