Filipino boxing pride shone bright once again as Eumir Marcial captured the WBC International Middleweight Title at the recently concluded Thrilla in Manila 2. SportsPlus, a dedicated sports supporter and the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), stood behind Marcial’s preparation and journey to this historic win – a commitment reflecting the brand’s long-standing mission to uplift local athletes and highlight Filipino excellence on the global stage.
“I’m thankful to SportsPlus for their support. It means a lot, not just for me, but for the youth who might be inspired to stand where I am one day,” Martial said. “Their belief in me and in Filipino sports is a huge motivation, and I thank them for standing firmly behind me every step of the way.”
Fifty years after the iconic clash between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the Smart Araneta Coliseum witnessed another historic moment in the boxing industry. Serving as the co-main event of the Thrilla in Manila 2 fight card, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial claimed a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares. The historic Thrilla in Manila of 1975 remains etched in sports history as one of the greatest boxing matches of all time. After five decades, Marcial stepped into that same ring to continue the legacy—honoring the legends before him while ushering in a new era of Filipino boxing excellence.
Despite being knocked down twice, Marcial’s composure and fighting spirit never wavered, proving once again why he remains one of the Philippines’ most celebrated boxers. The fight was an epic showdown and a hard-earned world title for Marcial as he won over the heavy-handed Colmenares by majority decision. The victory was made even more meaningful as it coincided with his 30th birthday, marking a milestone in both his life and career.
Marcial’s journey to the belt is built on hard work, discipline, and heart. Growing up in Zamboanga, he learned early what it meant to fight for every opportunity. When he first started boxing, he had no proper gym, limited resources, and little support—but he never lost sight of his dream.
Marcial continues to sharpen his craft and strengthen his purpose, with this win marking the start of his journey toward becoming a world champion–a dream he shares with his late brother. “This fight was my test to see if I truly have what it takes to become a world champion at middleweight,” Marcial shared. “Before my brother passed away, he always told me one thing–that he wanted to see me become a world champion.” This goal perfectly aligns with the SportsPlus mission to uplift Filipino athletes and provide the support needed to turn potential into world-class excellence.
Throughout his preparation, SportsPlus stood firmly behind Marcial, offering support that went beyond sponsorship. The support around him keeps him grounded and reminds him that every fight, every win, is for the Filipino people.
Beyond this triumph, SportsPlus remains committed to its mission to uplift Filipino athletes through its partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).
As Marcial continues to raise the flag for Filipino boxing, his victory stands as a reminder that the heart of a champion beats in every Filipino–undaunted, determined, and ready to fight for greatness. His victory echoes the strength of a nation that never backs down.
