Ifugao boxer “Wonder Boy” wins US debut, remains undefeated with 26–0 record

Ifugao, Philippines – Rising boxing star Carl Jammes “Wonder Boy” Martin, who hails from Lagawe, Ifugao, improved his unbeaten record to 26-0 following his successful US debut on June 1 (Philippine time) in Las Vegas.

Martin, dubbed as the new Manny Pacquiao, lived up to the billing as he demonstrated his prowess on the international stage, beating Mexico’s veteran boxer Francisco Javier Pedroza Portillo.

The 26-year-old southpaw dominated the eight-round bout with his footwork and jab that helped him control his pace and distance.

His performance peaked during the 6th round when he knocked down his 30-year-old opponent with a sharp counter left hook. Although the Mexican boxer beat the count, Martin maintained his power and ultimately secured a win by unanimous decision.

Two of the judges both scored the fight with 78-73, while the other one scored 79-72, all of which were in favor of the younger boxer.

The fight was witnessed by no less than the legend Pacquiao, who praised Martin and even gave him some pro tips for his future bouts.

With his record and recent performance, Martin is poised for more opportunities to further elevate his standing in the super bantamweight division, where he already holds titles such as the WBO Global and WBA Asia belts.

Meanwhile, he took to his social media to thank his supporters, especially his “kababayans” in Ifugao and his fellow Cordillerans.