Mark Magsayo got his first win under MP Promotions although his performance was not spared from criticism. Pundits saw some rush in the 25-year-old’s fight against Rigoberto Hermosillo with the Mexican being more aggressive and throwing more punches.
But for the record, Magsayo did throw more accurate punches. This was seen as the reason why the two of the judges scored in his favor. One scored it for Hermosillo. But one judge, Rudy Bragan did not escape the eye of onlookers. Most took exception to his lopsided score of 100-90 for Magsayo, said to be the second consecutive fight that he has been scoring poorly.
Legendary trainer Freddie Roach is aware of the flak and believes Magsayo could have done better. He says that Magsayo is one of the best punchers in the gym and felt the undefeated Filipino pug could have thrown more punches, Boxingscene reported.
"He wasn't letting his hands go enough. We just need him to keep throwing more combinations, but he did enough to win the fight and we're grateful for that," Roach said.
Magsayo was the odds-on-favorite to prevail, seeing how he was better prepared compared to Hermosillo. Thought he pride of Bohol said that he was not taking the Mexican lightly, it remained that he was well-trained. The only thing he was unaware of is how Hermosillo would take the fight to him. And so, the Mexican did.
What do you think? RT @PBConFOX: .@FreddieRoach reacts to @markmagsayo_MMM's performance with this being Magsayo's first fight with Roach as his trainer pic.twitter.com/3B7Jt0FbaK — PHSports LiveScores (@LiveScoresPH) October 4, 2020
Hermosillo was aggressive throughout though Magsayo took some rounds. But it was in round nine where Magsayo finally showed his arsenal, stunning Hermosillo and sending him to the canvas. Referee Jack Reiss ruled it a slip and not a knockdown but it was clear that Magsayo had the power most were looking for throughout the fight.
Looking ahead, Roach is expected to work on the flaws that Magsayo showed against Hermosillo. There is no word yet on who the Filipino fighter will face though it is clear he is oozing with potential. The first fight may pass but some feel he should prepare better and listen to Roach.
For now, Magsayo is savoring his first win for MP Promotions, a good start though some missed the explosiveness in him from past fights. The 25-year-old is in a period of transition, aware that he has a lot to learn. He is just thankful that Roach is overlooking his development.
"Freddie got me in great shape for this fight and I'm happy working with him. I faced a tough fighter, but I know I'm ready to beat anyone in the division," Magsayo said.
