Mark Magsayo applies the pressure on Gary Russell Jr. in their featherweight world title fight in Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA. Photo from Showtime Boxing Twitter
MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Sunday hailed Mark Magsayo for his win as WBC Featherweight World Champion, wresting the title from Gary Russell Jr.
Magsayo bagged the victory with a majority decision win at the Borgata Hotel Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
READ: Mark Magsayo becomes latest Filipino world champion, edges Gary Russell Jr.
“We are one with the Filipino people in celebrating the victory of Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo when he dethroned Gary Russell Jr. to become the new WBC featherweight champion,” Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said in a statement.
“We thank Mark for giving pride and honor to the country and demonstrating to the world the courage, determination and perseverance of the Filipino boxer,” the acting presidential spokesperson continued.
The 26-year-old Magsayo became the fifth active Filipino champion, together with Rene Cuarto, Jerwin Ancajas, John Riel Casimero, and Nonito Donaire.
Magsayo’s triumph ended Russell’s six year and 10-month reign, the longest active championship rule before the match.
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