MANILA – Filipino boxer Carl Jammes Martin survived a seventh-round knockdown and mounted a late comeback to stun Mexican contender David Picasso via split decision, capturing the WBC Silver featherweight title on Sunday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Martin overcame the midfight setback with a strong finish in the 10-round showdown, preserving his unbeaten record and securing the biggest victory of his professional career.
Two judges favored the Filipino, 95-94 and 96-93, while the third scored the contest 95-94 for Picasso.
The victory raised Martin’s record to 29-0, including 21 knockouts, while Picasso dropped to 33-2-1.
Following the closely contested bout, Picasso reportedly sought an immediate rematch, a challenge Martin readily accepted.
“He said, ‘I want a rematch, brother.’ Let’s do it again. And then he said, ‘Let’s go, bro,’” Martin recalled.
“I’m not scared of anybody,” Martin said.
Martin credited his father, Abel Martin, coach Marvin Somodio and adviser Dennis Principe for motivating him to fight through the closing rounds despite the knockdown.
His corner urged him to give everything in the final round, reminding him that there would be no more chances to turn the fight around.
With the WBC Silver featherweight crown secured, Martin has strengthened his position for a potential world title opportunity while keeping the door open for another showdown with Picasso./PN
