Mark Magsayo is the New WBC Featherweight Champ
JM Sanchez in Ang Pinoy Stories
Jan 24, 2022 • 1 min Read
The Philippines has its new world boxing champion.
Filipino pugilist Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo proved that he is a tough one to handle after a dramatic majority decision victory over Gary Russell Jr. for the WBC World Featherweight title, at Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey yesterday.
After his sensational knockout against Julio Ceja last year, Magsayo did not succumb to the pressure and made the most out of his greatness with a 115-113, 115-113, 114-114 triumph.
“This is my dream. My dream do come true. This is my dream since I was a kid. I’m so proud that I’m a champion. Thank you to all my Filipino supporters and fans,” quipped the 26-year old Magsayo in a post-game remark.
Magsayo dictated most of the rounds in the fight, trading solid punches and accurate combinations that greatly affect Russell’s composure.
He also capitalize the American fighter’s disadvantage with his barrage of emphatic hits throughout the match.
Russell Jr. revealed two weeks ago that he will fight despite of a shoulder injury.
“I hurt him in the third round. I hit him with good shots, that was why he got hurt. It was a little bit of advantage because he was only using one hand,” said Magsayo.
The Tacloban native fighter is still unbeatable with a 24-0 record with 16 knockouts while Russell suffered his second loss with a 31-2 tally.
Magsayo is now the 45th Filipino Champion in the history of Philippine boxing.
Photo Source: IG of Mark Magsayo