“Magnifico” is out to prove that he’s more than just a knockout artist this weekend
Knocking people out has been the specialty of Mark Magsayo (15-0). He has dispatched all but four of his 15 opponents, making him one of the country’s brightest prospects.
To him, however, knockouts are only a fraction of his whole arsenal. The 21-year old plans to show that he’s more than just a human highlight reel, as he faces Tanzania’s Issa Nampepeche (24-7-4) at the 40th edition of Pinoy Pride this weekend.
“Ang expectation ko dito ay manalo ako. Siguro hindi ko iisipin ang maka-knockout ako. Nagtrain ako para umabot ng 10 rounds, 12 rounds kaya prepared na (ako) talaga,” Magsayo said in a press conference held earlier today at The Waterfront in Cebu City.
Being an aggressive fighter comes with a price, as “Magnifico” had been knocked down during his fight against Chris Avalos before turning the tables on the American last April of 2016. Knowing the dangers of his fighting style, he has since incorporated the necessary improvements to complement his firepower.
“[Nag-improve] yung depensa ko. Natatakot sila na baka matulad ako nung kay Avalos na kulang yung depensa ko kaya yung ina-adjust naming sa training. Pati na rin yung jab at distance,” shared Magsayo, who is coming off a decision victory over Ramiro Robles seven months ago in the US.
“Kasi dati nung ‘pag straight ko, yung kamay ko medyo nakababa kaya yun ang inimprove ko. Pag nagkasabay, may depensa.”
Magsayo will once again be tested against the Tanzanian. The reigning WBO International featherweight titleholder is eager to show the strides he has made on fight night and prove that he is ready for a title run when given the chance.
“Para gumanda pa ang record ko at mapakita ko sa tao na karapat-dapat akong lumaban ng mga title fight,” Magsayo said.
“Kahit ano naman, ready tayo eh. Kasi ako, ready naman ako na lumaban sa mga title fight always ready naman ako sa division ko.”
