Eumir Marcial raised his fists as the bout ended — not only in celebration of his victory but also as a symbol of relief for Philippine boxers, who had endured a week of questionable decisions and unfair judging.
The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist finally broke the string of futility for Pinoy fighters, defeating Maikhel Muskita of Indonesia 4-1 to claim the gold medal in the men’s 80kg final of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at Chulalongkorn University Sports Center on Friday.
The gold marked Marcial’s fifth overall in SEA Games competition and helped the Philippine team close the tournament with one gold, three silvers, and six bronzes.
(C) POC Media
With both fighters tied after two rounds, Marcial went for the finish in the final frame, landing a powerful right hand that sent the Indonesian onto the ropes.
The 30-year-old native of Zamboanga then followed with a flurry of punches that proved decisive, securing the precious gold and sparing the PH boxing team from a gold-less campaign.
“Di ko talaga inexpect. Di ko inaasahan na makakasali ako dito at makuha ko ang aking ika-limang gold medal sa SEA Games. Hindi lang ito para sa akin — para ito sa buong bayan at sa Philippine boxing team. Para sa amin po ang lahat ng ito,” he said.
Marcial’s triumph also avenged the earlier disappointing losses of Aira Villegas, Jay Brian Baricuatro, and Flint Jara, who each settled for silver after tough breaks against Thai opponents.
(C) POC Media
