THE Philippines welcomed a new world boxing champion yesterday when Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo scored a majority decision victory over American Gary Russell Jr. to wrest the World Boxing Council featherweight title in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
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Russell, making a mandatory defense of his crown, went into the fight with a hurting right shoulder that left him vulnerable against the aggressive Magsayo, 26, who scored his 26th straight victory while joining the illustrious ranks of reigning Filipino world champions Jerwin Ancajas, John Riel Casimero, and Nonito Donaire.
“I feel like heaven. This is a dream come true. I am glad to have been given this opportunity. This is it, I am a world champion now,” Magsayo said in a post-fight interview. “For all the Filipino fans who have been praying for and supporting me, I love you all.”
Malacanang congratulated Magsayo for bringing pride and honor to the country.
Cabinet Secretary and acting Presidential spokesman Karlo Nograles said Magsayo exhibited the Filipino’s perseverance and determination against Russell.
“We are one with the Filipino people in celebrating the victory of Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo when he dethroned Gary Russell Jr. to become the new WBC featherweight champion. We thank Mark for giving pride and honor to the country and demonstrating to the world the courage, determination, and perseverance of the Filipino boxer. Mabuhay ang new world champion! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” Nograles said. — With Jocelyn Montemayor
