WHETHER “Prince†Albert Pagara and Mark “Magnifico†Magsayo really have what it takes to be world champions will be known when they headline tonight’s “Pinoy Pride 35: Stars of the Future†at Waterfront Cebu Hotel and Casino.
Both unbeaten, Pagara will defend his World Boxing Organization intercontinental junior featherweight crown against Nicaraguan Yesner Talavera while Magsayo will tangle with Mexican Eduardo Montoya for the WBO youth featherweight title.
As expected, the well-conditioned Pagara and Magsayo as well as their opponents breezed through yesterday’s official weigh-in held at Cebu Robinson’s Galleria.
The 22-year-old Pagara, who totes a 25-0 card with 18 knockouts, came in at 120 pounds while Talavera (15-3, 4 KOs) checked in at 121 for their 12-round duel. Magsayo (12-0, 10 KOs) and Montoya (17-4, 13 KOs) both registered 125 lb.
Pagara said he has studied Talavera thoroughly and is prepared to knock the Nicaraguan out if the opportunity arises.
Pitted against a fellow power-hitter, Magsayo said he’s raring to prove that he’s the better, more powerful puncher.
Pinoy Pride 35 is another joint undertaking of ALA Promotions Inc. and ABS-CBN Sports.