Mark Magsayo prevails in US return, edges Hermosillo

Mark Magsayo connects on a left uppercut to Rigoberto Hermosillo. Sean Ham/TGB Promotions

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Mark Magsayo pulled off a close victory against a game Riboerto Hermosillo in their 10-round showdown at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday (Philippine Time).

Despite the aggression of Hermosillo, who accepted the challenge on a three-week notice after Magsayo's supposed opponent, Jose Haro, decided to retire from boxing, Magsayo muscled enough strength and durability to take home a split decision win in his first bout in the United States after four years.

Magsayo delivered some crisp shots including a right hook to Hermosillo's head in the first round.

Hermosillo's activity in the next three rounds somehow kept Magsayo at bay despite still landing the more accurate hits.

Round 5 finally saw Hermosillo slowing down a bit with Magsayo finally outboxing him.

Although Hermosillo still had some bright moments in Rounds 7 and 10, Magsayo somehow took control of the second half of bout.

Hermosillo's aggressive stance got the nod of Judge Lou Moret, who gave him a 96-94 lead.

Zachary Young, who decided the contest, gave the bout to Magsayo with a 96-94 card of his own.

However, Rudy Barragan raised eyebrows after scoring it 100-90 for Magsayo.

Despite the controversial scorecard, Magsayo remains undefeated at 22-0, putting him closer at a world title fight.

Hermosillo (11-3-1) lost for the third straight time after going unbeaten in his first 12 bouts.

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