Mark Magsayo scores impressive win in 130 pound debut
Philippines-born, and now Valencia, California-residing Magsayo had been at 126 for a decade and it was clear the new weight brought new energy and power with it.
Saturday night in Long Beach. California, former 126-pound world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo (25-2, 17 KOs) delivered the magnifico KO of the night. One might argue it is up there for KO of the year. Either way, it laid out rugged Mexican Isaac Avelar (17-7, 10 KOs).
While Avelar was certainly going in as the B-side against Magsayo, a former WBC featherweight champion, he was a tough, battle-tested veteran who had been in with his share of contenders and champions.
However, Magsayo found the range for his fight-ending left hook in the 3rd round of their scheduled 8, catching Avelar right on the tip of the off switch and sending him crashing to the canvas.
Philippines-born, and now Valencia, California-residing Magsayo had been at 126 for a decade and it was clear the new weight brought new energy and power with it.
After the fight, the always polite and respectful Magsayo said he was excited to test himself against the best at 130 pounds.
“That left hook, Coach Marvin (Wild Card Gym’s, Somodio) and I have been working on that punch in the gym and it worked tonight”, he said. “I felt strong at 130-pounds. I am looking forward to fighting the best fighters at 130. I have to thank Mr. Sean Gibbons and Mr. Al Haymon for these opportunities,” he said, pointing to Gibbons standing nearby.
Magsayo, who along with head trainer Somodio, also works with expert conditioning coach Pedro Garcia, and Gibbons’ son Brendan, looked like a guy who is more than ready for a title shot.
Gibbons, standing nearby, was clearly pleased with his charge’s 130-pound debut, and was already mapping out the next steps for 2024.
“Anybody at 130, he is ready”, said Gibbons. “We’ll get him back in March or April for sure”, he said. “One more fight, a title eliminator like he did at 126 and then a title shot. After that any of the big names at 130 we are ready”.
Asked if there is anyone in particular, Gibbons was clear that any big name was welcome.
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