Marcial wants pro fights before Paris Olympic bid

MANILA, Philippines – Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial said he is eyeing to have a professional match soon, as he prepares for next year’s Paris Olympics.

In an interview with CNN Philippines’ Sports Desk, Marcial, who recently won a silver medal in the Hangzhou Asian Games, said he is hoping to fight at least before the end of the year.

“As soon as possible, I want to go back to the US so I can start training,” he said in Filipino.

“Hopefully, I can fight before the end of the year, so that before the Olympics, I can have at least two fights,” he added.

“After that, we will focus our training for the Olympics.”

The boxer acknowledged that the Olympics will be tough, especially being a Filipino competing in the light heavyweight division, underscoring the need for better preparation.

“I have a lot to focus on and improve upon when it comes to the Olympics, since everything will be tough by then. Those who will play are the best of the best,” he said.

“Opponents from all over will qualify [for the Olympics,] so that is what we will prepare for.”