Undefeated Filipino boxer Mark Magsayo has dethroned American Gary Russell Jr., the WBC Featherweight Champion who held the belt for 6 years.
The Filipino champion delivered the historic blow to the longest active reign by Russell who kept the title for six years and 10 months.
Magsayo received the nods of judges Mark Constantino and Henry Grant, 115-113, 115-113 while Lynne Carter ruled 114-114.
Magsayo, recently awarded the Knockout of the Year award for his spectacular win over Julio “Pollito” Ceja of Mexico, was declared winner of the match held by Showtime Boxing on January 23, 2022.
#AndNew 🇵🇭🙌🏼 @markmagsayo_MMM ends Gary Russell Jr’s title reign to become the WBC Featherweight World Champion. #RussellMagsayo
https://twitter.com/ShowtimeBoxing/status/1485120503832526851
“This is my dream come true.” – Mark Magsayo
“This is my dream come true.” – @markmagsayo_MMM #RussellMagsayo pic.twitter.com/77sTsVySnL
— SHOWTIME Boxing (@ShowtimeBoxing) January 23, 2022
The 26-year-old boxer from Leyte, who is trained by legendary Freddie Roach, was earlier hailed “Prospect of the Year” by the World Boxing Council (WBC) for his performance.
TELL US your good news story tips by messaging GoodNewsPilipinas.com on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or e-mail editor@goodnewspilipinas.com and WATCH Good News Pilipinas TV YouTube for more Filipino Pride stories!
