MANILA, Philippines — Eumir Marcial’s participation in the 2026 Asian Games remains uncertain as his condition after his Sept. 19 professional bout could determine whether he can compete in the men’s 80-kilogram boxing event in Japan.
Marcial will face Omar Huerta only hours before the Asian Games boxing draw. The men’s 80kg competition starts Sept. 23.
Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines president Marcus Manalo said the tight schedule has left the national boxing program waiting to see whether Marcial can finish the professional fight healthy enough to travel.
“It’s difficult to keep your hopes up,” Manalo said. “It’s very stressful to keep hoping.”
Marcial, a bronze medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, has remained unbeaten through seven professional fights. Huerta enters the bout with a 15-1-1 record and 13 knockouts.
Manalo said Marcial’s chances of competing could depend on more than the fight’s result. The boxer must also avoid injuries and recover quickly enough to travel to Japan and return to amateur competition.
“I think the chances are dim [that Marcial can compete in the Asiad],” Manalo said. “His opponent is also tough. And even if he wins, what will his condition be? If he does catch a flight here, he has to contend with jet lag. His hands could get injured, and that could need a long recovery period.”
Marcial’s Asian Games status will remain unsettled until after the professional bout and a medical assessment of his condition.
