Mark Magsayo seeks KO vs Mexican foe in Pacquiao-Ugas undercard
FILE – Filipino featherweight Mark Magsayo. Photo from Marvin Somodio’s Instagram
MANILA, Philippines—World title prospect Mark Magsayo is looking to make the most of his opportunity when he fights in the undercard of Manny Pacquiao’s WBA welterweight title match against Yordenis Ugas.
Undefeated at 22-0 with 15 knockouts, Magsayo looks to build his stock further when he takes on former World title challenger Julio Ceja in the featherweight division.
Magsayo said he can last the full 12 rounds but he’s also looking for an early stoppage win if the opportunity presents itself.
“I am up for a 12-round fight but if there’s the opportunity to knock him out early in the early rounds or in the last round I’m going to push myself to knock him out,” said Magsayo in an interview with Premier Boxing Champions.
Magsayo ranked no.3 in the WBO, no.4 in the IBF, and no.5 in the WBC, and a platform such as a Pacquiao card gives him the opportunity to move up and possibly join the title conversation.
Nevertheless, Magsayo is not one to overlook Ceja.
“My opponent Julio Ceja is a tough fighter, aggressive fighter,” said Magsayo. “He’s a good fighter so I’m gonna do my best for this upcoming fight and I’m sure that I’m gonna win the fight.”
Magsayo also shares the same gym as Pacquiao’s with the two fighters training under Freddie Roach at Wild Card Gym.
Training in close proximity with boxing’s only eight-division World champion gave Magsayo a personal perspective on how one of the sport’s greats prepares for a bout.
“I’ve been learning a lot of things from coach Freddie. I saw the training of Sen. Manny, the movement, the speed, the power,” said Magsayo.
