The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is placing their bets on boxer Eumir Marcial as one of their best shots at Olympic gold in the 2021 Tokyo Summer Olympics.
Marcial is currently in Los Angeles undergoing intensive training by legendary coach Freddy Roach but is still considered an amateur boxer by the PSC and under contract with the government organization. Marcial started his professional fighting career against Andrew Whitfield on Dec. 16th; however, the PSC now wants him to declare his status to avoid future complications.
PSC Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez told the media at a press conference that there are still things that are unclear to them and that the PSC has been funding Marcial. Ramirez also said that until he gets a license, Marcial is still considered an amateur boxer. Ramirez also offered some advice in his press conference; he said that crocodiles in the business grab every opportunity.
The Philippines have never won gold in an Olympic event and are hopeful that Eumir Marcial could be their first gold medal winner. Ramirez also said that a professional fight background would help their fighter prepare for the Olympics and that the PSC would support him in whichever path he chooses.
Marcial’s First Fight
In Marcial’s US professional debut, he won the fight over Whitfield by scoring more points in the allotted time. Below is a stream of Marcial’s first official professional fight.
Marcial is considered by many to be the next Manny Pacquiao, and he is looking to follow in the footsteps of his idol. Marcial is also represented by Manny Pacquiao Promotions and is training with Pacquiao’s former trainer Freddy Roach.
Betting on boxing is available to Philippine residents via online sportsbooks operating offshore. There will also be Olympic betting lines open once the events are announced.
Philippine gambling laws allow residents to bet on sports via legal online sportsbooks and through domestic sportsbooks. Most PH bettors choose online options due to their convenience and to avoid restrictions placed on domestic sports betting services.
Domestic sportsbooks are not allowed to offer betting lines on events that take place inside of the country. Domestic sportsbooks cannot offer betting lines on PBA basketball or boxing events held in the Philippines. To make online betting easier for PHP bettors, there are numerous funding options, including Bitcoin, altcoins, Visa, and other services such as Skrill or Netteller.