FightnewsASIA Exclusive: In Depth with Mark Magsayo

By Anil Kumar Alagu

Very few professional athletes are at the helm of having tough responsibilities — other than being expected to perform at the highest order of sporting standards: captivating fans with physical aptness that defies the conceivable limits of an average man.

Feats so captivating, It often attracts a loyal yet passionate following. From this equation of the equilibrium only a handful of athletes manage to supersede the dimensions that their respective sport offers.

Boxing is a sport that has produced many such athletes — turning them into inescapable role models of society. Along the way — making sacrifices, that are inevitable in its nature.

They refuse to allow career reclining instances to hinder their ascend to athletic greatness.

As HBO boxing commentator Jim Lampley emotionally once quoted at the final seconds of the 12^th round, when Manny Pacquiao fought Erik Morales for the first time:

“Guys, there is nothing like boxing! And there are no athletes like fighters!”

Lampley is indeed right.

Mark “MAGNIFICO” Magsayo (20-0,14 KO) would almost certainly fit in this part of the equation. The Boholano has never lost a professional fight thus far, won14 of his last 20 appearances by knock out, 12 out of the 14 stoppages coming in less than 5 rounds and is currently the number 1 ranked featherweight in the Philippines.

All this and more — making him one of the most recognizable professional boxer in the archipelago.

Along the way, Magsayo has belted numerous titles as well; The WBO international featherweight title and recently the WBC-ASIA featherweight title.

Anil Kumar of Fight news ASIA recently caught up with this emerging supernova to discover how his career in boxing began, inspiration and of course his ongoing stint with legendary hall of fame boxing trainer/mentor Freddie Roach of Wild card boxing gym – Los Angeles, USA — As he zealously attempts to carve a name for himself on American soil.

AK: Thanks for taking time off your training schedule to speak to us Mark. How are you?

MM: Good thanks man. No worries, always a pleasure to find an avenue to reach out to my fans.

AK: So, let’s start things off right from the get-go, how did you get involved in the sport of boxing?

MM: I have fond memories of watching Senator Manny Pacquiao fight Marco Antonio Barrera. The sheer experience of watching him fight made me decide instantly that I wanted to become a professional boxer.

AK: In such a passionate sport like boxing, who do you draw inspiration the most from?

MM: My family and my loving wife. The very souls that stood by me in times of great adversity. They keep me grounded.

AK: You look very much in shape since we last saw each other. I reckon it’s the healthy lifestyle you’re upkeeping. What’s been the biggest and most vital driving factor behind your enthusiasm to hit the gym and train despite your inactivity?

MM: Staying away from unhealthy practices tops the list. It all stems from an early upbringing in the sport. I still train everyday even when I don’t have a fight scheduled. I’d probably gain weight if I stayed away from the gym; Hence, I work hard busting my guts preparing myself for the opportunity when it comes by. God has great plans for me, so I’ll stay prepared. As the saying goes; “No time like the present”.

AK: What does it mean for you to be a fighter and what are your aspirations in the ring?

MM: Fighting in the ring is my way of honoring my country and family. My fight resonates to the many other boxers who are eager for an opportunity that I’m blessed with. I fight for the weak and voiceless. With gods grace, I want to someday become a multi division champion.

AK: How hungry are you for a shot at reigning the world title?

MM: Never been hungrier. This new training camp has been very encouraging. I’m eager to correct mistakes and improve on my combinations.

AK: You are presently without a Promoter/Manager. Having been promoted my numerous promoters in the past what did you take away from those experiences and how would things change henceforth?

MM: A mix of good and bad. The experience has made me wiser. Learned plenty after a string of unforeseen events. In retrospect these events made me stronger and help reinstate my faith in the lord. Blockades by certain parties who don’t want to see me fight again will never deter me. All glory to god, I’m still surrounded by my loving family and fans. That conviction alone is enough to fuel my journey into the sport.

AK: Have you been approached by any Promoters/Managers since you last won the WBC Asia featherweight title?

MM: Yes, But I haven’t decided on anything yet. Still evaluating possible options.

AK: I would now like to speak of a unique moment in your career. You are now embarking on a new training stint with hall of fame boxing trainer Freddie Roach. How did that opportunity come about? Please also share your experience being under the tutelage of “Coach Freddie”?

MM: It’s only been a week so far. But the things coach Freddie has taught me is amazing. He even made me do things I never knew I was capable of. I’m ever so eager to learn and absorb as much as I can from him, the mans an institution for the sport. I’m blessed and I’ll give it my best to keep improving.

AK: World level contenders in boxing often switch trainers to introduce change in training environment or improve on vital aspects of fighting styles. What has it been for you?

MM: Don’t get me wrong, I’m still with my trainer Rissan Muelas back in the Manila, we haven’t parted ways. My team and I felt that I needed a change in exposure to get myself used to the U.S.A. Coach Freddie is my head trainer nowand My camps for all succeeding bouts will be at Wild Card.

AK: Every fighter has a weapon in his arsenal (themoney punch). What’s yours?

MM: Hook and my overhand punch.

AK: Can you recall a fight where you executed your “Money Punch” so well that it deserves to be pinned up as a poster?

MM: Yes, When I fought Chris Avalos back in 2016. Avalos floored me before I threw a combination with those punches and stopped him in the 6^th round.

AK: Being undefeated in 20 bouts with 14 knock outs in your sleeve, which fight has been the toughest for you so far?

MM: Shota Hayashi. He was a tough cookie. It was a good fight.

AK: Your dream fight; With whom and why?

MM: Oscar Valdez. I feel our styles match and we can both push each other to the trenches when we fight. I want to beat him someday.

AK: What can your fans expect from you next?

MM: I’ll be wiser and far more aggressive than I ever was before. My fans will see a version of me they never saw before. Best moments are closer than ever.

AK: Boxers always want to leave a legacy. You have a very inspiring story to share; One which many can draw inspiration from. It goes beyond race, religion and gender. How do you want to be remembered when you finally decide to hang your gloves Mark?

MM: I want to be remembered as a fearless fighter who fought for my country and fellow boxers from the Philippines.

Anil Kumar is a boxing Journalist for Fight News Asia and a boxing ring announcer/commentator/analyst.