Video: Mark Magsayo Vs Jorge Mata
LAS VEGAS, USA – Former world champion Mark Magsayo showcased his skills but was unable to knock out Jorge Mata, ultimately winning by a convincing unanimous decision in their fight for the World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas super featherweight title on Saturday, July 19 (Sunday, July 20, Philippine time) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
More active and precise, Magsayo put Mata in a difficult position during the fourth round with a series of powerful hooks and uppercuts, controlling the pace of the 10-round match throughout, coming close to a clean sweep when one of the three judges scored it 98-92 instead of the unanimous 100-90.
The pride of Tagbilaran, Bohol, impressed MP (Manny Pacquiao) Promotions president Sean Gibbons enough to warrant a chance for the former WBC featherweight champion to pursue a title in a second weight class.
Magsayo began the 10-round fight with powerful left punches and ultimately secured his 28th victory, with 18 coming by way of knockout, against 2 losses.
Although he outworked and outlanded Mata, Magsayo was unable to achieve a knockout as the Mexican fighter demonstrated resilience and toughness.
Despite slowing down in the sixth round after training with Manny Pacquiao in Los Angeles, Magsayo continued to deliver enough punches to keep Mata at bay.
Both fighters, weighing in at 129 pounds on Friday, managed their energy in the ninth round, but in the 10th, Magsayo increased his intensity with three combinations that stunned Mata.
Trainer Marvin Somodio, who had promised a knockout victory for Magsayo, was in the corner alongside Brendan Gibbons, the son of Sean and head of Viva Promotions.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman praised Magsayo for his remarkable win, which may position him as the mandatory challenger this year.
