ALA Boxing cares for Mark Magsayo

It’s his passion, same as his great father, to help poor kids achieve their dreams, says Michael Aldeguer, president/CEO of ALA Boxing.

That’s the young Aldeguer’s first open reaction to the case of top-rated world featherweight Mark Magsayo of Tacloban, Leyte, who has been rendered idle for over a year following a contractual dispute with the ALA Boxing chieftain.

Aldeguer has been urged to speak up after a long silence that left the 24-year-old Magsayo, with an 18-0 record that included 13 knockouts, wasting away indefinitely.

There was no immediate response from Aldeguer. But this reporter, after two attempts, finally got a few words over the weekend.

“We have the same passion (with my father) and that is to help fighters and poor kids achieve their dreams,” he said in a text message.

What followed was an excited wait.

There was a one-day lull, before the Aldeguer comment came through.

Following is his complete message:

“Good morning. I read your column urging ALA Boxing to speak up. The reason I’ve not spoken is because the case is now in the court.

“The contract that expired was the managerial contract but Mark (Magsayo) has signed a new multi-year promotional deal with ALA Promotions. When Mark disputed it, ALA Promotions’ legal counsel brought the case to the GAB Office, and has reached out to them to arbitrate since last year.

“GAB (Games and Amusements Board) never attempted to call me or our legal counsel directly to intervene, after they said that only managerial and not promotional deals are within their jurisdiction.

“Hope to have enlightened you on the situation of Mark (Magsayo).”

Respectfully,

MICHAEL P. ALDEGUER
President/CEO, ALA Boxing

By the way, Michael Aldeguer is the son of the legendary Cebuano Antonio L. Aldeguer, the humble and unassuming sportsman who has built ALA Boxing into an international institution.

Just like his father, Michael is a caring and compassionate gentleman.

He should be able to see the Magsayo case to a happy resolution.