Filipino boxer Mark "Magnifico" Magsayo defeated erstwhile defending champ American Gary Russell Jr. via majority decision to become the new World Boxing Council (WBC) featherweight titlist at the Borgata Event Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Sunday (Philippine time).
One judge scored 114-114, while the other two scored 115-113 in favor of Magsayo, as he ended the nearly seven-year reign of Russell Jr. in the 126-pound class.
"This is my dream. My dream came true. I'm so proud I'm a champion now. Thank you for the Filipino fans and the Filipinos here," said Magsayo in the post-fight interview.
Magsayo dictated the pace in the early rounds, being aggressive and landing solid punches on Russell including uppercuts and body shots.
He remained aggressive in the remainder of the contest and pounced on Russell Jr. who hurt his right shoulder in the fourth round that practically rendered him a one-hand fighter for the rest of the way.
