2020 Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial and former International Boxing Federation (IBF) super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas are two of the brightest stars in Philippine boxing today. Both fighters have made a significant impact on the international stage, and their talent continues to shine as they progress in their respective careers.
According to a report from Philstar, plans are underway to feature Marcial and Ancajas as the headliners of a major boxing card this December. The proposed dates for the event are either December 14 or December 17, the latter coinciding with the birthday of legendary Filipino boxing icon, Manny Pacquiao. While the event’s final date remains unconfirmed, the excitement surrounding these two fighters is building momentum among fans and boxing analysts alike.
Eumir Marcial is a name that Filipino boxing fans know well. He made headlines during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he won a bronze medal in the men's middleweight division. That achievement further cemented his place as one of the Philippines' premier boxing talents. Since his Olympic success, Marcial has transitioned into professional boxing, and he has already started making waves.
Marcial’s latest appearance on the global stage was during the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where he represented the Philippines in the men’s 80-kilogram division. Unfortunately, his campaign didn’t go as planned, as he lost his opening bout to Uzbekistan’s Turabek Khabibullaev.
Despite the setback, Marcial remains undeterred, and his focus has shifted entirely to his professional boxing career. He is currently unbeaten in the professional ranks, boasting a stellar 5-0 win-loss record, with three knockouts to his name.
Since returning to Manila after the Paris Olympics, Marcial has been dedicating himself fully to training and preparation for his next professional bouts. This December event offers Marcial the perfect opportunity to showcase his ever-improving skill set as he continues his quest to become a world champion in the professional boxing world.
Jerwin Ancajas dropped and dominated his opponent en route to a 5th round Disqualification victory
— terwin (@AlquisolaKhen) September 25, 2024
Watch the full fight: https://t.co/6tQrXeNHDz@KnuckleheadSean#boxing pic.twitter.com/Ga6FjO06hf
While Marcial is relatively new to the professional boxing scene, Jerwin Ancajas is a veteran with years of experience and accomplishments under his belt. Ancajas made a name for himself by dominating the 115-pound super flyweight division, where he held the IBF title for over six years. However, like all champions, Ancajas has faced his fair share of challenges.
Ancajas’ latest professional fight took place at the Mandaluyong City College gym during the “Blow By Blow” event, where he faced Thailand’s Sukpraserd Ponpitak. The fight ended in a rather controversial fashion, with Ponpitak being disqualified in the fifth round, granting Ancajas the victory.
While Ancajas secured the win, it’s worth noting that he was still recovering from his earlier defeat in February, where he failed in his attempt to capture the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight title from Takuma Inoue.
The fight against Ponpitak also marked Ancajas' debut in the featherweight division. Moving up from the 115-pound division where he was a dominant force, the transition hasn’t been easy. But Ancajas is no stranger to hard work, and he’s determined to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. According to Sean Gibbons, president of Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions and a staunch supporter of Ancajas, the fighter still has a lot to prove before he can earn another title shot.
“Jerwin was pudgy against Ponpitak and needs to take his career more seriously. This was something he needed to do, to get back on track. In December, he’d better be in 100 percent shape, he’d better come in at 122 pounds, go for a minor belt and show what he still has left,” Gibbons said in an interview with the media.
Gibbons also mentioned that Ancajas’ training could involve travel to the United States to ensure that he is in peak physical condition. Ancajas is well aware that a strong showing in December is crucial for reigniting his career and positioning himself as a serious contender in the featherweight division.
Though the details of the December event are yet to be finalized, it’s already generating significant buzz within the boxing community. Having both Eumir Marcial and Jerwin Ancajas headlining the main card would certainly attract fans eager to witness two of the Philippines’ finest athletes in action. For Marcial, this event represents another stepping stone in his journey to establish himself as a professional boxing superstar. For Ancajas, it’s a chance at redemption and a vital opportunity to prove that he still has the heart and talent to compete for world titles.
Boxing fans across the Philippines are eagerly awaiting official confirmation from the event’s organizers and boxing authorities. Whether the event takes place on December 14 or December 17, it’s bound to be a must-watch spectacle. Moreover, with Manny Pacquiao’s name potentially attached to the event, it’s sure to generate massive interest both domestically and internationally.
Filipino boxing has a long and storied tradition, with legends like Manny Pacquiao paving the way for future generations. The continued success of fighters like Marcial and Ancajas is a testament to the rich boxing heritage of the Philippines. For decades, Filipino boxers have competed at the highest levels, capturing world titles and making a name for themselves on the global stage. Now, the torch has been passed to the next generation, and Marcial and Ancajas are among those leading the charge.
While Marcial’s Olympic success has already placed him in the spotlight, his professional career is just beginning. He represents the hopes of a nation eager to see another Filipino world champion emerge. Meanwhile, Ancajas is a seasoned veteran who is determined to reclaim his former glory. Together, these two fighters symbolize the resilience, determination, and fighting spirit that Filipino boxers are known for.
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Sign up now to stay tuned for all the latest news and updates regarding this exciting boxing event. Don’t miss your chance to bet on two of the Philippines’ most talented fighters as they aim for glory in December!
