Gennady Golovkin is middleweight Mike Tyson: Lamar Russ

Russ gave the interview to BoxingScene.com web portal ahead of his encounter with Matthew Macklin in which he will replace the injured Willie Nelson.

According to the U.S. athlete, 'Macklin is a great fighter. He is a top 10 contender. I know what comes with this fight. But I'm willing to take that risk and show the world what I got.'

"I helped Gennady Golovkin get ready for Macklin when he fought him this June," Russ said. Gennady 'GGG' Golovkin KOed the British boxer in the third round.

"Sparring with Golovkin, my defense and offense have picked up a lot. He has taught me how to push through when I'm tired," Russ added.

As for whether Gennady Golovkin is one of the best punchers, Russ said:" He definitely is. I've been in the ring with him, and I know what it feels like. He's one of those guys, he knows how to place his punches and he knows how to put that strength right there. I've seen him work over heavyweights, light heavyweights and super middleweights. I've seen him break down all of them. He's definitely a top puncher. I call him the middleweight Mike Tyson."

The bout between Lamar Russ and Matthew Macklin is set to take place in Atlantic City on December 7.