KO a bonus for Magsayo

MANILA, Philippines — WBC No. 4 featherweight Mark Magsayo may be a win or two away from fighting for a world title and he’s not taking any chances against Mexican tough guy Rigoberto Hermosillo in a scheduled 10-round bout at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles this morning (Manila time).

“Ang aking aim ay umabot ng 10 rounds,” said Magsayo. “Pag may knockout, bonus na lang. Handa na ako. Malaking bagay ang prayers sa akin.”

Freddie Roach and Marvin Somodio will be in Magsayo’s corner. A cutman will be designated by the California State Athletic Commission under the new normal rules. Magsayo arrived in Los Angeles from Manila last July 1 with wife Frances and they live in a modest apartment behind the Wild Card Gym provided by MP Promotions head Sean Gibbons. He was originally scheduled to face Jose Haro on Sept. 23. Haro backed out three weeks ago and Hermosillo came in as a late replacement.

“Ready na at maganda ang training,” said Somodio. “Tumulong ako sa mitts pag-gawa ng strategy ni coach Freddie.” Roach and Somodio teamed up to prepare Magsayo for his first fight since outpointing former WBO bantamweight titlist Pungluang Sor Singyu of Thailand in Tagbilaran City in August last year. Strength/conditioning coach Justin Fortune took care of Magsayo’s physical fitness. Somodio said Magsayo is strong and quick. “Pwede mag-world champion,” he said.

Gibbons said he expects an explosive showing from Magsayo. “It’s his coming out party,” continued Gibbons. “He’s absolutely ready to fight for the world title. Mark and Frances are adults and very self-sufficient people, a dream to work with, real professionals. They’re a lovely couple very much on the same page.” If Magsayo takes care of business this morning, he’ll be closer to a shot at WBC featherweight champion Gary Russell’s throne.

Hermosillo, 28, won’t make it easy for Magsayo. The 5-9 southpaw is three inches taller and enjoys a 1-1/2 inch reach advantage.  He was unbeaten in his first 12 bouts but lost his last two to undefeated fighters on points. His record is 11-2-1, with 8 KOs, including four inside three rounds. Magsayo, 25, boasts a 20-0 record, with 14 KOs.