Boholano Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo was officially honored by the Senate following his unanimous decision victory over a Japanese foe in his homecoming title fight over a week ago.
Magsayo on Tuesday was personally congratulated by senators who also commended the pugilist for his win over Shota Hayashi through Senate Resolution No. 572 adopted earlier that day.
The Tagbilaran City native was accompanied by Mayor John Geesnell Yap who has been one of the boxer’s benefactors in his recent boxing campaigns.
Magsayo outlasted Hayashi in a 12-round bout during the Pinoy Pride 43 at the Bohol Wisdom Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City on November 25.
All three judges gave an identical 116-112 in favor of Magsayo who retained his World Boxing Organization (WBO) international crown and improved his record to 18-0, with 13 knockouts.
After the slugfest which tested Magsayo’s conditioning, fight analyst Ed Tolentino through ABS-CBN said that the young boxer could be ready for a world title eliminator or even a world title fight.
READ: Magsayo beats resilient Japanese foe in ‘The Battle in Bohol’
However, Tolentino cautioned Magsayo and his handlers that a tune-up bout against a top 10 contender may be needed before the 22-year-old engages in a title fight.
Magsayo had earlier bared his desire to fight Oscar Valdez for the latter’s WBO world featherweight title.
The Tagbilaranon’s latest victory may have brought himself closer to that goal. (AD)