Photo Courtesy || Carl James Martin
Cordillera - Unbeaten prospect Carl Jammes "Wonder Boy" Martin is gearing up for a pivotal moment in his boxing journey as he readies to face off against Oscar Duge of Tanzania in a compelling 10-round bantamweight clash at Mandaluyong Sports Complex on August 19.
The 24-year-old Igorot boxing star hailing from Lagawe, Ifugao, is emerging from an eight-month hiatus with a keen understanding of the immense significance this fight carries for his future aspirations of becoming a world champion someday.
Martin expressed, "My next fight is incredibly crucial," during Tuesday's Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum held at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
His dedicated training is backed by his father, Abel, and brother, Japeth, who also serve as his trainers, demonstrating their meticulous approach to both preparing for the bout and analyzing potential in-ring adjustments.
Having amassed an impressive record of 21 wins, all of which were punctuated by 17 knockouts (with 10 of them occurring within the first three rounds), the young southpaw pugilist has recuperated fully from a rib injury, positioning himself to give his best in this upcoming showdown.
Former world champion Gerry Penalosa and Sean Gibbons from MP Promotions stand as pillars of support in Martin's corner. If his strategy pans out, Martin envisions the possibility of receiving advanced training in the United States under Gibbons' guidance.
On the opposing side, Duge, hailing from Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania, will enter the ring with a record of 11 wins, 5 losses, and 2 draws. Although he stands at 5'3", nearly three inches shorter than his Filipino adversary, the 26-year-old Tanzanian fighter brings a formidable challenge. While Duge has tasted defeat on five occasions, his record is untainted by knockouts, a feat Martin's team aims to change.
"We're aiming for the first knockout against him," asserted Japeth, who himself has a background in boxing. "But we're also prepared for a prolonged battle."
As fight night approaches, the anticipation builds, and both fighters, Martin and Duge, are set to engage in a clash that could potentially shape the trajectory of their respective boxing careers.
