Two former world champions will face off for a chance to reclaim glory in the featherweight division as Brandon Figueroa takes on Mark Magsayo for the interim WBC featherweight title on Saturday, March 4 (March 5 in Philippines) at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.
The fight, which will be televised live on Showtime, is a high-stakes showdown between two explosive and powerful punchers who are eager to prove themselves as elite fighters in the 126-pound weight class.
Figueroa (22-1-1, 17 KOs), who hails from Weslaco, Texas, is a former WBA super bantamweight champion who moved up to featherweight last year after losing his title to Stephen Fulton by unanimous decision in a thrilling fight of the year candidate.
The 25-year-old Figueroa, who is known for his relentless pressure and body attack, bounced back with a knockout win over Luis Nery in November and is now looking to secure another world title shot against WBC champion Rey Vargas.
“I’m excited to be back in action against Mark Magsayo,” Figueroa said. “He’s a tough fighter who has a lot of power and speed. I know he’s hungry for this opportunity, but so am I. I want to show everyone that I’m still one of the best fighters in this division and that I deserve another chance at Vargas.”
Magsayo (23-1, 17 KOs), who hails from Bohol, Philippines, is a former WBO international featherweight champion who also moved up in weight last year after losing his title to Gary Russell Jr. by split decision in a close and competitive fight.
The 27-year-old Magsayo, who is trained by legendary coach Freddie Roach, rebounded with a knockout win over Julio Ceja in December and is now aiming to become the fourth Filipino fighter to win a world title at featherweight after Manny Pacquiao, Nonito Donaire and Johnriel Casimero.
“I’m very grateful for this opportunity to fight Brandon Figueroa for the interim WBC featherweight title,” Magsayo said. “He’s a great fighter who always comes forward and gives his best. I respect him a lot, but I’m confident that I have what it takes to beat him. This is my dream come true and I will not let it slip away.”
The winner of Figueroa vs Magsayo will become the mandatory challenger for Vargas (35-0, 22 KOs), who has been out of action since July 2019 due to injuries and promotional issues.
Vargas recently signed with Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) and is expected to return to the ring later this year.
The co-main event of the Showtime card will feature former unified super welterweight champion Julian Williams against unbeaten contender Brian Castano in an eliminator for the WBO title currently held by Tim Tszyu.