Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial steps into the spotlight as he chases his first professional title in what is shaping up to be the most star-studded boxing event of the year — the “Thrilla in Manila” 50th Anniversary card on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Araneta Coliseum.
Marcial (6-0, 4 KOs) faces Venezuelan knockout artist Eddy Colmenares (11-2-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC International middleweight title, marking his toughest professional test yet.
The Zamboanga-born fighter, who captured Olympic bronze in Tokyo 2020, is eager to make a statement as he transitions from amateur glory to championship success in the pro ranks.
“War talaga ‘to. Tingin ko bagsakan talaga ‘to bukas,” said Marcial during Tuesday’s press conference. “’Yun ang sabi niya — giyera — kaya ibibigay ko sa kanya ‘yon.”
The bout is expected to be an explosive clash between two heavy hitters — Marcial’s trademark precision and power against Colmenares’ relentless aggression, with all of the Venezuelan’s wins coming by knockout.
Marcial, now training under a full-time pro setup while balancing commitments to the national team, said he remains committed to representing the country in future international meets. “Kung tatawagin ulit ako ng bayan, handa pa rin akong lumaban,” he added.
Marcial’s title fight is one of the highlights in a 13-bout mega card that celebrates the 50th anniversary of the original “Thrilla in Manila” — the legendary 1975 duel between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.
Joining Marcial in the Philippine contingent is WBC minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem, who defends his belt against South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse. Jerusalem (24-3, 12 KOs), fresh off a pair of wins over Japan’s Yudai Shigeoka, will headline the event in front of a hometown crowd.
Also seeing action are former world champion Marlon Tapales against Venezuelan Fernando Toro, and undefeated super-bantamweight star Carl Jammes Martin against Thai Aran Dipaen.
Adding sentimental value to the event, Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of the great Muhammad Ali, fights Kittisak Klinson in the same arena where his grandfather fought Frazier five decades ago.
“It’s a great opportunity for me to honor him with a fight, so expect nothing but a spectacular performance,” said Walsh.
The undercard will also feature Eman Bacosa, son of Manny Pacquiao, who takes on Nico Salado in an all-Filipino matchup, while Arvin Magramo battles Berland Robles for the WBC International lightweight crown.
With a mix of world champions, rising Filipino stars, and boxing royalty, the event promises to be a celebration of the sport’s past and its bright future.
But for Eumir Marcial, the night carries a deeper purpose — a chance to etch his own name in history, just as Ali and Frazier did 50 years ago.
“I want to bring honor to the Philippines and make my mark as a champion,” Marcial declared. “This is my moment.”
