The Philippines has for a long time been one of the top boxing countries in Asia going on to produce some of the most talented boxers in the world. Since Pancho Villa made a name in the boxing history in 1923, the Philippines has been producing many top fighters such as Lusito Espinosa, Ceferino Garcia, Nonito Donaire, and Manny Pacquiao among others. At the moment, one man determined to add his name to the history of the greats is the highly talented “Prince” Albert Pagara.
Despite being only 21 years old, Pagara is highly promising and has been tipped to become the next great Filipino fighter. Currently, he is undefeated in his professional career under Super Bantamweight class. He has fought 25 fights, winning 17 by knockouts and 7 by decision. His amateur record is very impressive also having won 10 gold medals in various tournaments.
Pagara fought his first fight as professional on August 18, 2011, defeating his first opponent, Sandy Cajil by a knockout in the second round. He kept his good form and ended the year with an impressive record of 9-0 (7). His success in his first year inspired him and he maintained his impressive form in 2012 when he met fighters such Phupha Por Nobnom. He ended the year with a 14-0 (10) record. Marvin Tampus became the first fighter to hold Pagara up to 10 rounds. He continued in 2013, winning 4 more fights. In 2014, he faced some tough fighters such as Isack Junior, former WBO Asia-Pacific Indonesian champion and Skak Max.
Pagara won the IBF International Super Bantamweight belt in 2014, which was his first world title, by beating Hugo Partida by knockout in the first round. His best win to date was when he completely out-boxed Raul Hirales. This win was not just a step up in class but also in how he fought. Since then, he has scooped two more stoppages, the first coming against Rodolfo Hernamdez, and the second against Jesus Rios. His fight with the Mexican, Jesus Rios markedhis first international fight coming on August 7, 2015 where he knocked him out in the first round. His latest fight came on October 18, 2015 when he faced William Gonzalez. Pagara won the fight through a knockout in the sixth round to capture the vacant WBO Intercontinental featherweight title.
Pagara brings to the ring a perfect combination of youth and understanding due to his accomplishments and experience. His skills, speed, timing and power are all incredible and exceptional.
Despite currently being an “uncrowned” prince, Albert Pagara has promising potential within to become a superstar, not only in Filipino boxing but also worldwide. Backed up some of the best promoters, it is definite that we will see Pagara competing for big titles in the near future.
