Mark Magsayo out to prove worth in first starring role

CEBU, Philippines - The undefeated ALA Gym stalwart Mark ‘Magnifico’ Magsayo (16-0, 12KOs) girds up for a career defining fight when he defends his WBO International featherweight belt against Nicaraguan veteran Daniel ‘El General’ Diaz (23-7, 15KOs) in the main event of Pinoy Pride 41 on July 8 at the IEC Convention Center.

“I always wanted this fight,” said Magsayo in a press conference yesterday at the Radisson Blu Hotel. “I know how important this is. I want to prove that I am a legitimate contender in my division.”

Magsayo, who is ranked No.4 by the WBO, anticipates that the Nicaraguan will give him a tough match but is highly confident on his chances. He wants to make an impression in a bid to incher closer to his dream of fighting for a world title.

“If you ask me, I am ready to face the WBO champion (Oscar Valdez) but it still depends on my promoter,” said Magsayo, who demolished Tanzanian Issa Nampepeche in just one round last April 29 at the Waterfront-Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Prior to that, Magsayo earned the adulation of fans when he courageously recovered from a frightening third-round knockdown on the way to stop American 'Hitman' Chris Avalos in round six under the Nonito Donaire-Zsolt Bedak duel in April last year at the Cebu City Sports Center.

“I want to show what I am really made of. I consider Diaz as a top caliber opponent and this would be a great match for me,” added the fighting pride of Tagbilaran City.

ALA trainer Edmund Villamor, for his part, said it's is a risky and crucial match for Magsayo considering that Diaz is a very technical fighter.

Diaz is expected to make of use his vast experience against Magsayo. He once fought for the WBO bantamweight title, albeit in a losing cause to Japanese star Koki Kameda via 11th round TKO.

“He (Diaz) moves well. He is tall and he knows how to use his reach. The Nicaraguan can fight outside and inside. We need to create a perfect game plan for Mark in this one,” said Villamor.

In the supporting bouts of the action-packed card presented by ALA Promotions and ABS-CBN Sports, ALA hard-hitter Jeo ‘Santino’ Santisima (13-2, 11KOs) will take on Goodluck Mrema (15-0, 7KOs) of Tanzania, while ‘Prince’ Albert Pagara (27-1, 18KOs) hopes to strengthen his road to recovery as he battles Indonesian Waldo Sabu (12-7, 2KOs). (FREEMAN)