MANILA, Philippines – Call Carl Jammes Martin “Wonderboy” no more. He is now a legit talent set to conquer the world stage.
Martin stunned touted Mexican David Picasso to clinch the WBC (World Boxing Council) Silver featherweight crown via split decision (96-93 and 95-94 for Martin, and 95-94 for Picasso) at the King’s Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, October 31 (Sunday, November 1, Philippine time).
Defying pre-fight predictions and a 2-inch height and 5-inch reach disadvantage, Martin dictated the tempo of the 10-rounder, was the busier fighter, and landed the clearer power punches to beat Picasso despite incurring a flash knockdown, when his gloves touched the canvas after getting hit by a stiff jab in the seventh round.
Already the No. 1 contender by the WBO (World Boxing Organization) and the No. 7 by the IBF (International Boxing Federation) at super bantamweight, Martin is expected to enter the super featherweight top contenders after his successful foray in the 126-pound division.
Oddsmakers tagged Martin as the huge underdog because of the higher quality of opposition Picasso has faced, with one betting site assessing the Mexican’s chances of winning at 87% and Martin’s upset hopes at 13%.
Little did they know that Martin, true to his Lagawe, Ifugao, heritage, relishes the odds and thrives on challenges.
For three months, he trained hard with his father and coach, Abel Martin, before seeking help from United States-based trainer Marvin Somodio for the latter part of his preparation, starting at the Knucklehead Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, Nevada, owned by MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons.
Reaping the benefits, Martin dictated the tempo from the opening bell and outworked Picasso, leaving the Mexican no time to launch his vaunted body shots.
During the post-fight interview, Martin thanked the fans and said, “So much I appreciate this one (crown).”
According to Martin, he “learned a lot in the US, trained so much, and sparred with great fighters,” paving the way for the victory that left boxing pundits in awe and fight promoters on notice.
While Martin’s purse for the Picasso fight was reportedly at least $150,000 (P9.58 million), the big bucks would come on his next fight, wherever it may be. – Rappler.com