Magsayo set for Pinoy Pride: 43

Pinoy Pride 43: Battle for Bohol poster

Mark Magsayo wishes to have a successful homecoming tonight, as he defends his WBO International Featherweight title tonight in the main event of Pinoy Pride 43: Battle for Bohol.

Toting a 17-0 win-loss record, thirteen of which came via knockout, the man called "Magnifico" will be facing Shota Hayashi and his 30-6-1 record. A win for the Japanese challenger would definitely raise his profile and move him up the rankings, while a win for the champion could potentially find him getting a title shot against Oscar Valdez, considered as among the most complete fighters in the division.

Both Anton Roxas and Atty. Ed Tolentino believe that Magsayo has what it takes to put Hayashi down and successfully defend this title, while also adding that this is going to be a very explosive fight and a straight-up brawl that Filipino fight fans would appreciate.

According to Tolentino, "Magsayo reminds me of a young Pacquiao, as he brings two things to the ring: charm and harm. He has a nice story, but when he's in the ring, the kid throws punches with bad intentions. He brings in brutal raw power." He adds that Hayashi's style is a tailor-fit for Magsayo, as he prefers his opponents to come within his punching range.

Roxas believes that even with Hayashi having logged more fights, the fighter has yet to fight outside his native country, which could potentially make it hard for him to nullify Magsayo's homefield advantage. He also affirms his belief that he should eventually face Valdez, acknowledging that Magsayo's punching power would give him a chance against the Mexican champion. Tolentino also shares that Magsayo could also help avenge Genesis Servania's loss against him in the process.

Even Magsayo knows what looms ahead, shares "I really want Valdez. If I beat Hayashi, I'm going to get that title fight. I'm coming for it." He also is looking forward to fighting in front of his home crowd. "This has been a long-time dream for me, to be able to fight in front of them and make them proud that I am from Tagbilaran."

Set at the Bohol Wisdom Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City, fans can watch Pinoy Pride 43 LIVE starting at 6pm on SKY Sports Pay-Per-View. One can call their local SKY office or dial 418-0000 for further details, or visit www.mysky.com.ph/boxingppv. SKYCable subscribers can also text BoxingPPV to 23662. SKYDirect postpaid subscribers can also text SKY to 23668, while prepaid subscribers can text PPV[space]BOXING[space][BOX ID] to 23667. SKYBroadband subscribers can watch it through SKY on Demand.

Those who prefer to watch it on free tv can do so tomorrow on ABS-CBN Channel 2 at 330pm or on S+A and S+A HD starting at 630pm.