Filipino star Mark Magsayo defeated Gary Russell on points to end boxing’s longest championship reign.
The featherweight star was awarded the victory by two of three judges to claim the WBC title.
1
Magsayo is promoted by boxing legend – and fellow Filipino – Manny Pacquiao, who praised his man after his victory in Atlantic City.
American Russell had held the title since March 2015.
However, it was only his sixth defense at the time.
Speaking after the win, Magsayo said: “It’s been my dream since I was a kid.
“Thank you for the support of the Filipino fans. Now I am world champion.”
Two judges scored Magsayo at 115-113 and the other at 114-114.
Join San Vegas: GET FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100K GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs applicable)
Magsayo has yet to lose, his 24th with Saturday’s win – coming 16 via knockout.
He earned his title shot in August by KOing Mexico’s Julio Ceja.
Russell, who has not fought more than once in a calendar year since 2014, stepped into the ring for the first time since February 2020 when he defeated Tugstogat Nyambayar of Mongolia.
However, the 33-year-old suffered a shoulder injury during training, which he said affected the result against Magsayo.
He added: “I hit him with some good shots in the third round and that’s why he got hurt.”
Pacquiao tweeted after the win: “Congratulations, @markmagsayo_MMM on your first World Championships!
“Thank you for bringing honor to our country by being the latest Filipino world boxing champion.
“Welcome to the club.”
Free bets: Receive over £2,000 in new customer deals
