Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzhniak (red) and Philippines’ Eumir Marcial fight during their men’s middle (69-75kg) semi-final boxing match during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo on August 5, 2021. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines–Eumir Marcial remained gracious in defeat after his semifinal exit in the Tokyo Olympics men’s middleweight boxing tournament.
In an Instagram post, Marcial thanked those who supported him in his Olympic journey as he wrapped up his Tokyo campaign with a bronze medal around his neck after losing to Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzniak.
“Just a little bit more and I would have had my hands on the dream that my father and I had since I was a kid,” wrote Marcial in Filipino. “There are so many struggles just to get to the Olympics. It’s painful because I couldn’t get the gold.”
“But I still wholeheartedly thank the Philippines and every Filipino who supported and showed me that every win I got was for them. To my whole family and fiancée. I thank God for the blessings he’s given me.”
Marcial, one of the Philippines’ top bets for a medal, dropped a close split decision to Khyzniak, a world and European champion in 2017.
Despite coming away with a stoppage and a knockout in his first two fights, Marcial was put to the gauntlet in the semifinal where the more-rounded Khyzniak pulled out all the stops in the third round.
Marcial, who turned pro in 2020, also thanked the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines, his sponsors, and coaches who helped him in his career.
“Special mention to the whole team coaches Ronald Chavez, Don Abnett, Nolito Velasco, Reynaldo Galido, nutritionist Jeaneth Aro, psychologist Marcus Manalo, and to Doc Molo. Also to Senator Manny Pacquiao for the support and MP Promotions president Mr. Sean Giboons for everything,” posted Marcial.
