MANILA ? This year saw some great fights starring Filipino champions.
There was the “farewell” bout by Manny Pacquiao in April, where the pride of General Santos City decked Timothy Bradley twice before hammering out a unanimous decision win.
There’s also the 10-round domination of John Riel Casimero over Britain’s Charlie Edwards, and the shock win by Davaeno Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas against Puerto Rico’s McJoe Arroyo.
But according to veteran boxing commentator Ed Tolentino, the most exciting match involving a Filipino boxer this year is the non-title bout between unbeaten featherweight prospect Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo and former world title contender Chris “the Hitman” Avalos.
The fight, which took place on April 23, was witnessed by a crowd of more than 20,000 in Cebu.
Magsayo, a native of Tagbilaran City, Bohol, was gaining confidence against Avalos after rocking the Mexican-American with a left hook when Avalos fired back with a left of his own that sent the Filipino to the ground.
“Magsayo was a highly touted prospect going in, but when Avalos knocked him down bad in the 3rd round, not a few at ringside thought, ‘Uh oh, there goes another Pinoy prospect,’ ” said Tolentino.
“But (Magsayo) showed a lot of heart by picking himself up from the canvas and launching a ferocious comeback. He went full throttle in the 6th round and peppered Avalos without remorse.?
At that point, Avalos’ corner figured their fighter couldn’t continue anymore and decided to throw in the towel.
With the win, Magsayo took home the vacant WBO international featherweight crown. He sports an undefeated record in 15 fights.
“Magsayo showed that other than having a pair of dynamite fists, he has the heart of a true gladiator,” Tolentino said.
