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Eumir Marcial shifts focus to pro career after Paris Olympics run
Eumir Marcial is turning his attention to his professional boxing career after he concluded his second straight Summer Games appearance in the recently-concluded 2024 Paris Olympics that saw him absorb an early exit.
The 28-year-old pugilist decided to put his pro career on hold and remain in the amateur ranks in order to still compete in Paris. However, Marcial was caught by surprise as he fell to Uzbekistan's Turabek Khabibullaev in the men's 80kg division Round of 16, formally closing out his campaign.
It was a shock loss for Marcial and the nation as the Filipino fighter was among the favorites to win a medal, having won a bronze during his debut in Tokyo three years ago.
But that setback won't hold Marcial back as he now sets his sights on his professional bid.
"I am not closing my doors in wanting to achieve my ultimate dream, which is to win an Olympic gold medal," Marcial said in a Facebook post Wednesday.
"But I think I’m making the right decision to pour my focus into my professional career, and in continuing to bring honor to our country."
Marcial, who last fought in a professional bout last March against a Thai opponent in Manila, said he will return to the ring in December, but did not specify whom or where he'll be taking his act.
"I guess I’ll see you guys back in the ring on December."
As a pro, Marcial boasts an impressive win-loss record of 5-0 highlighted by three knockouts.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
