Entering his first-ever fight under the MP Promotions banner, Mark Magsayo knew that his opponent Rigoberto Hermosillo was a tough nut to crack.
Despite being the overwhelming favorite, Magsayo had to dig deep, eking out a split decision win over Hermosillo (100-90, 96-94, 94-96) in the main event of PBC on FOX held at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California, Sunday morning (Philippine time).
According to Compubox, the 25-year-old native of Tagbilaran, Bohol landed 136-of-417 of his punches compared to 181-of-856 punches by the Mexican.
“He knocks people down all the time but he didn’t let his hands go tonight,” lamented Magsayo’s head trainer for the bout Freddie Roach.
Inconsistency was the problem for Magsayo, who entered the bout as the minus-5000 favorite.
Magsayo started the 10-round featherweight tilt cerebrally, landing clean counterpunches that negated his opponent’s aggression.
Sporting a cut on his right eyebrow in the second round, Hermosillo decided to trade shots with Magsayo. Magsayo still dominated the middle rounds.
Hermosillo, a plus-1400, landed his cleanest punch in the seventh round — a left huge hook. Knowing that he had to end the bout strong, Magsayo fired back with a strong ninth and 10 rounds that proved to be the difference.
“First of all, I want to thank God for this victory. I would also want to thank Coach Freddie for taking me in his camp. Great opportunity for me,” said Magsayo, who raised his unbeaten slate to 27-0 (20KOs).
The valiant Hermosillo, a late replacement for Jose Haro, dropped to 11-3-1.
