“Prince” Albert Pagara. Mark Giongco/INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO
DUBAI—The door to world acclaim opened up for “Prince” Albert Pagara Friday night here.
Following his sensational first round demolition of Mexican veteran Jesus Rios, the unbeaten Pagara booked his ticket to train and headline ALA International Promotions next fight card in the United States on Oct. 17.
Michael Aldeguer, president and CEO of the Philippines’ foremost boxing outfit, disclosed this to sportswriters who covered Pinoy Pride 32: Duel in Dubai 2.
While Albert’s older brother, Jason, also won over Ramiro Alcaraz via an abbreviated eight- round unanimous decision, his US stint hangs as he sustained two deep cuts on his left eye brow against the scrappy Mexican.
Though Michael and his father, boxing patron Antonio Aldeguer, know Albert’s ring prowess, they were still impressed with the way their prized ward knocked out former world title contender Rios in just two minutes.
“He (Albert) is aggressive, but in a calculated way,” said the younger Aldeguer, adding that the selected boxers of the ALA stable will be leaving for the US late this month.
READ: Pagara brothers pull off contrasting wins in Dubai
Elated by the success of Duel in Dubai 2, Aldeguer assured there’s going to be a third edition in the first quarter of next year.
Also assured of getting exposure in ALA Promotion’s first US foray at StubHub Center in Carson, California, is Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo, also unbeaten like Albert, now 24-0 with 17 knockouts.
The 20-year-old Magsayo, who hails from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, holds an 11-0 card with nine knockouts and is the reigning IBF youth featherweight titlist.
With Jason and veteran Jimrex Jaca, who survived a fourth round meltdown to beat Pablo Lugo Montiel, needing to stay awake owing to their tough fights, Albert accompanied them at Boracay night club of Asiana Hotel where the entourage from Manila and Cebu City were billeted.
Donnie Nietes, the longest reigning Filipino world champion, did not join them in the celebration, but was around for a hearty breakfast.