HANGZHOU, China — Under control.
The Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines yesterday allayed fears that Eumir Marcial will struggle in his return to amateur boxing competition.
Abap secretary general Marcus Jarwin Manalo told Daily Tribune that Marcial is working double time to adjust to the fast-paced style of amateur boxing in the 19th Asian Games.
It’s going to be Marcial’s first stint in the Asian Games since turning professional in 2020.
He posted four wins in the pro ranks after beating Andrew Whitfield, Isiah Hart, Steven Pichardo and Ricardo Ruben Villalba.
Now, he is returning to the amateurs against heavier fighters in the light heavyweight division.
“There’s no problem with his weight division. He can easily compete against heavier fighters,” said Manalo, referring to Marcial who found a lot of success in the middleweight class. It, however, was scratched, prompting Marcial to climb to the light heavyweight category.
“His main adjustment now is the style coming from the pros. But he’s catching up and has a very good chance here with his draw.”
Marcial and the Filipino boxers, who trained in India and Australia as part of their buildup in the prestigious quadrennial meet, will open their campaign on Sunday at the Hangzhou Gymnasium.
Aside from Marcial, also seeing action are Carlo Paalam (men’s 51-kilogram), Ian Clark Bautista (men’s 57-kg), Mark Ashley Fajardo (men’s 63-kg), Marjon Pinar (men’s 71-kg), John Marvin (men’s 92-kg), Aira Villegas (women’s 50-kg), Irish Magno (women’s 54-kg), Nesthy Petecio (women’s 57-kg) and Riza Pasuit (women’s 60-kg).
Manalo said Filipino-British puncher Marvin can also spring a lot of surprises.
“John Marvin has a chance with his draw,” Manalo said, refusing to come up with a specific target but clarified that their goal is to punch tickets to the Paris Olympics next year.
