Eumir Felix Marcial, giddy and excited over his forthcoming pro debut, may be forgetting something.
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) said that the 25-year-old Olympic-bound boxer is still under contract with the government and is still considered an amateur.
“Remember that we funded him, and he’s still under contract with the Philippines,” PSC Chair William Ramirez said. “There are some things that are not clear to us.”
Granted that a professional experience will boost his preparation for Tokyo, Ramirez said Marcial has responsibility with Team Philippines as its prime Olympic prospect.
“We understand that he’s thrilled he is in the United States and being trained by renowned coach Freddie Roach,” Ramirez said. “But until he gets license, he’s still an amateur.”
Ramirez said the PSC will support Marcial in whatever decision he makes but advised the Filipino standout to clarify his status to avoid complications.
The PSC chief also offered Marcial a nugget of wisdom: Do not be too consumed with the promises of becoming “the next Manny Pacquiao.”
“There are crocodiles in the business grabbing every opportunity,” said Ramirez, who did not name names.
Marcial signed up with MP Promotions, whose president, American Sean Gibbons, snagged him a Dec. 16 fight against Andrew Whitfield in Los Angeles.
Ramirez said even if Marcial obtains a pro license, the PSC financial assistance will continue because he is part of the Olympic campaign.
“He is a big Olympic gold medal potential,” Ramirez said.