Mark Magsayo makes stunning lightweight debut with fifth-round TKO of Feargal McCrory

Mark Magsayo, the pride of Tagbilaran, Bohol, made an emphatic entrance into the 135-pound division, leaving no doubt that he belongs among the lightweight elite. 

On Monday (PHT) at Meta Apex in Las Vegas, the former WBC featherweight champion showcased his signature speed and precision, dismantling Irish contender Feargal McCrory with a fifth-round technical knockout.

This fight marked Magsayo’s first under Zuffa Boxing, the promotional outfit founded by UFC president Dana White, signaling a new and promising chapter in his career. 

From the first bell, Magsayo set the pace, nearly sending McCrory to the canvas in the fourth round with a looping right hand that left the Irish fighter staggering against the ropes. 

The pressure continued into the fifth, forcing McCrory’s corner to throw in the towel just 21 seconds into the round.

“Brimming with confidence after putting on a spectacular show, Magsayo feels he’s in his best form. He also let the rest of the lightweight class know about his intentions moving forward,” the boxer said. 

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WATCH: Mark Magsayo made a strong statement in both his Zuffa Boxing and lightweight debuts, authoring a fifth-round TKO victory over Feargal McCrory. pic.twitter.com/1Fd0ju7p9F

— NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) April 6, 2026

After the fight, Magsayo celebrated with his customary somersault and rapid-fire punches in the air, marking his 29th career win, 19 by knockout—against just two losses. McCrory, a former world title challenger, fell to 17-2 with 9 KOs.

In a post-fight interview, Magsayo radiated confidence, saying, “Big difference, the weight, the training camp, the sparring, and everything. I’m strong. I’m powerful. This is my division. This is my prime. This is my weight (135 pounds). Let’s go!”

The victory also extends Magsayo’s winning streak to five, bouncing back from back-to-back defeats to Rey Vargas and Brandon Figueroa in 2022 and 2023. 

His performance demonstrated not only his adaptability in moving up a weight class but also his evolution as a fighter, blending speed, power, and tactical ring intelligence.

Looking forward, Magsayo is set to headline an eight-fight card against unbeaten Andres Cortes (25-0, 13 KOs), who recently bested Eridson Garcia.

This looming matchup could define Magsayo’s path toward challenging the top contenders in the lightweight division.

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