By Brian Yalung
Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo of the Philippines inched closer to a potential featherweight world title shot after knocking out Mexican opponent Julio Ceja in the 10th round of their WBC featherweight title eliminator fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, Aug. 21 (Sunday, Aug 22 PH time).
Magsayo overcame a fifth round knockdown by Ceja when he connected with a pair of right hands on the Mexican with just 50 seconds gone in the 10th round.
The win allowed the 26-year-old boxer to keep his unblemished record with 23 wins, 16 coming from knockouts.
Ceja’s end came when Magsayo connected with a solid right hand in the 10th round. The pride of Tagbilaran City, Bohol also landed another right hand as the Mexican was already unconscious and falling to the canvas.
The Mexican lost by knockout or technical for the fourth time in his 12-year career but managed to leave the ring on his own, guided back to the dressing room by his handlers. His record now stands at 32 wins (28 via KO), 5 losses, and a draw.
For Magsayo, the victory allowed him to inch closer to a featherweight world title shot. – jlo
