Boxing champion Eumir Marcial was one of the Philippines' best hopes for a medal at the 2024 Olympics, but things did not go as planned for the southpaw. His Olympic hopes were shattered early when he met a difficult opponent, Uzbekistan's Turabek Khabibullaev, in the men's 80-kg division at the North Paris Arena. The contest, which took place in the early hours of Wednesday, July 31 (Philippine Standard Time), ended in sadness for Marcial, who lost his first match, therefore ending his quest for an Olympic gold.
Following his failed bid for a medal at the recently concluded Olympic Games, Marcial took to social media to confirm that he will now focus 100 percent on his blossoming professional boxing career. The 28-year-old boxer, who has long been considered one of the Philippines' brightest sports talents, expressed his mixed feelings about the outcome of the Olympics and his future in boxing.
GOING PRO 🥊
— GMA Sports (@gmasportsph) August 21, 2024
LOOK: Eumir Marcial has announced that he will be shifting his focus on his professional boxing career after his stint at the #Paris2024 Olympics.
Best of luck, Eumir!
Follow #GMASports for more updates. pic.twitter.com/RNQFi2alZr
“I am not closing my doors in wanting to achieve my ultimate dream, which is to win an Olympic gold medal. But I think I am making the right decision to pour my focus into my professional career, and in continuing to bring honor to our country,” Marcial wrote in his post. His words resonated with his fans and supporters, who have followed his journey closely over the years.
Marcial's decision to shift his focus entirely to his professional career is a significant one, especially considering his impressive track record as a professional boxer. Competing in the middleweight category, Marcial has remained unbeaten in his professional career, boasting a flawless 5-0-0 win-loss-draw record, with three of those victories coming by way of knockout. His powerful performances in the ring have made him a force to be reckoned with in the professional boxing world.
Marcial's last professional bout was a memorable one, as he faced Thai opponent Thoedask Sinam in his maiden professional boxing assignment on home soil. The fight, held on Saturday, March 23, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila, was a showcase of Marcial's skill and determination. He knocked out Sinam in the fourth round of their eighth-rounder non-title super middleweight clash, sending a strong message to the boxing world about his potential and ambitions.
Despite the setback at the Olympics, Marcial's future in professional boxing looks incredibly promising. The Zamboanga City native, known for his powerful punches and relentless work ethic, has yet to announce his next opponent or the location of his next fight. However, he did drop a hint to his fans, stating, “I guess I will see you guys back in the ring in December.” This statement has fueled anticipation and excitement among boxing enthusiasts, who are eager to see Marcial back in action and continuing his winning streak.
Marcial's journey in boxing has been one of perseverance, talent, and national pride. Despite the disappointment of the 2024 Olympic Games, he remains one of the best boxers to come from the Philippines. Marcial has represented the country for more than a decade, making his mark on the international stage with his outstanding performances. He won a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, which was a moment of immense pride for the Philippines. Additionally, he has brought honor to the country through his achievements in several world, Asian, and Southeast Asian competitions.
As Marcial transitions fully into his professional career, the question of his future in amateur boxing remains. It’s worth noting that he turned professional under MP Manny Pacquiao Promotions in July 2020, a decision that has since paid off in terms of his professional success. However, with boxing not officially listed in the sporting events for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Marcial's decision to focus on his professional career seems even more justified. The landscape of boxing at the Olympics is uncertain, and Marcial's choice to pursue professional accolades may well be the best path forward for his career.
For Filipino sports fans, Marcial's journey is far from over. His dedication to bringing honor to the Philippines through his professional boxing career continues to inspire many. As he prepares for his next fight, all eyes will be on him to see how he progresses and whether he can continue his unbeaten streak in the professional ranks.
Marcial's story is a testament to the resilience and determination of Filipino athletes. His transition from Olympic hopeful to professional boxing contender is a journey worth following, and OKBet is here to keep you informed every step of the way.
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