Eumir Marcial Launches Initiative to Develop Future Filipino Boxers

Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Eumir Marcial is looking to help young boxers in the hope that they will one day represent the country. On Saturday, Marcial unveiled El Puño Zamboangueño, a Chavacano phrase that translates to “The Fist of the Zamboangueño.” The initiative will also promote bouts such as those of Weljon Mindoro and Albert Francisco, who are set to fight on February 21 in Zamboanga City. Marcial emphasized that the venture was born out of the need to provide consistent opportunities for local fighters. “This is what the young boxers are asking for, especially those like Weljon and Albert who are hungry for fights,” Marcial explained. “They want to thrive in the professional ranks, but there simply aren’t enough promotions available to host them.” “So with this program that we want to launch, we eventually would like to host one event every month so we can discover another young fighter from Zamboanga who, in the future, will bravely represent and bring glory to our country,” Marcial added. Mindoro, who is seeking redemption after a bronze-medal finish at the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand, shared that he is channeling his frustrations into a dominant performance in front of his hometown fans. Meanwhile, Francisco will put his Philippine flyweight title on the line in a highly anticipated defense. Marcial also revealed that fellow Olympic medalist Carlo Paalam is slated to make a special appearance.