Zambo pug eyes US tiff

MANILA, Philippines–Former three-time World Boxing Organization Oriental super lightweight champion Anthony “Rocky” Marcial of Zamboanga could get a shot at fighting in the United States this year if he beats Jonel “The Prince” Gadapan Saturday at Zamboanga City Coliseum.

Marcial,  a former sparring partner of Manny Pacquiao in 2012, is considered as one of the best boxers in the country.

The winner of the Marcial-Gadapan today will be declared the new Mindanao Professional Boxing champion in the 140-pound division. The boxing match in Zamboanga is dubbed “Golpe de Zamboangueño” and is supported by Sarangani Rep. Pacquiao.

The card also features other promising boxers from Zamboanga such as Roel Aperese, Angelo Marcial, and Yoyoy Tañamor, younger brother of Olympian boxer Harry.

Marcial’s boats of a 19-3 win-loss record, and won 18 of his fights by knockout.  A certified KO artist, Marcial is out to prove that he can be a champion again.

Marcial’s title bid is being supported by no less than Harry Tañamor, who  said  that Zamboangueño boxers such as Marcial have the skills and talent that are at par with the best boxers in the world.

Other major supporters are Cerritos Mitsubishi, Metro Stonerich, ZC Kings Manpower and I-FM Zamboanga.