Magsayo Pursues Second World Title With Zuffa Boxing

Mark Magsayo thinks Zuffa Boxing can deliver him a second world championship after years of stalled momentum.

The former WBC featherweight titleholder, who lost the belt in 2022 and has struggled to secure marquee matchups since, told ESPN the UFC-backed promotional outfit provides the reset his career needed. Magsayo won the strap by stopping Gary Russell Jr. in 2022 but dropped it six months later to Rey Vargas, then went 2-1 over the next three years without landing another signature bout.

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Zuffa Platform Offers Fresh Path To Title Shot

Magsayo's decision to sign with Zuffa marks a departure from the traditional promotional model most boxers follow to chase belts. The Philippine southpaw is banking on the company's infrastructure and UFC connections to fast-track him back into title contention at either featherweight or junior lightweight.

His debut under the Zuffa banner has not been announced, but sources familiar with the signing expect him to campaign at 130 pounds moving forward. Magsayo closed as a favourite in his last outing, a majority-decision win over Isaac Lowe in March, though oddsmakers had him as an underdog for most of the lead-up.

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He turns 30 next month and has stated he wants one more title run before his prime window closes. Zuffa's first boxing event is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Mark Magsayo takes road less traveled to another world title with Zuffa Boxing