Filipino boxer Mark Magsayo wins WBC featherweight belt, becomes 5th active Filipino world boxing champion
By Ryan General
Filipino boxer Mark Magsayo secured a majority decision win over American boxer Gary Russell Jr. and received the World Boxing Council (WBC) featherweight belt in Atlantic City on Saturday.
Magsayo, who has an undefeated record of 24-0, succeeded in his first attempt at winning a world title, with two judges scoring the fight 115-113 in his favor and one judge scoring it at 114-114, reported Rappler.
During the post-fight interview, the 26-year-old athlete said, “This is a dream come true. This was my dream since I was a kid, since I was an amateur. Now I’m a professional, I’m a world champion.”
Magsayo won the WBC title that Russell held for nearly seven years, the longest period a boxer has ever held onto a championship.
The victory places Magsayo among the current ranks of active Filipino boxing world champions Rene Cuarto, Jerwin Ancajas, John Riel Casimero, and Nonito Donaire, Inquirer reported.
Former boxing champion and current Philippine presidential candidate Manny Pacquiao congratulated Magsayo via a tweet.
“Thank you for bringing honor to our country by becoming the latest Filipino world boxing champion. Welcome to the club,” wrote the octuple boxing champion.
Russell, who reportedly sustained a right shoulder injury two weeks prior to the match, endured a barrage of jabs and counterpunches from Magsayo throughout the fight.
Featured Image via SHOWTIME Sports
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