Eumir Felix Marcial has not stopped getting ready for the Tokyo Olympics. But his plans to turn professional can't wait any longer.
The 24-year-old Marcial feels that one professional fight before going to the Olympiad will be a great experience for him.
“Sabi ko nga, magandang pagkakataon na ako ay may laban bago ako mag Olympics. Isa, ay para tumaas ang kumpiyansa ko, at ang experience ko ay madagdagan,” said Marcial in an interview with the Manila Standard.
Marcial, who is training while in home quarantine in Imus, Cavite, said his plan to turn pro is in the works.
With the help of family members, Marcial has managed to narrow down the good offers coming his way.
There's one coming from the camp of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, along with those from United States-based promoter Shelly Finkel and British manager Eddie Hearns of Matchroom Boxing.
Marcial's decision to turn pro was spurred by uncertainties in the staging of the Tokyo Olympics after it was postponed early this year because of worldwide lockdowns imposed by countries in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Almost one year pa ang Olympics at 'di pa natin alam kung matutuloy, at wala pa ding kasiguraduhan,” he added.
Marcial is hoping and praying that his bid to step in the ring as a pro will happen anytime soon.
For now, he will just get ready while doing shadow boxing and exercises inside his home.
“Workouts and shadowboxing dito sa bahay. Tuluy-tuloy lang,” said Marcial.
What's inspiring Marcial lately is his plans to get married to long-time girlfriend Princess Galarpe. That's because Marcial recently proposed marriage to Galarpe, his girlfriend for more than eight years.