Filipino stalwarts proved boxing is in good hands for the years to come after they shone bright in the Thrilla in Manila 50th anniversary slugfest Wednesday night, Oct. 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Several local talents showed glimpses of a good future after Eumir Marcial, Carl Jammes Martin, Marlon Tapales, Arvin Magramo, Eman Bacosa, and Ronerick Ballesteros delivered big victories in front of an adoring crowd who joined the festivities aimed at honoring the legendary fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.

Marcial, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, survived two knockdowns and scored a majority decision win to delight his home fans.

“Habang lumalaban po ako, isa lang ang naririnig ko, ‘yong sigaw ng mga tao, ‘yon ang nagbigay ng lakas sakin,” said Marcial, who celebrated his 30th birthday on Wednesday. “Sinunod po namin ‘yong game plan, puntos lang.”

He took home the vacant WBC International middleweight belt and could be on his way to a title shot should he continue to impress in his division.

Martin, meanwhile, remained unblemished in 27 bouts at the expense of Thai Aran Dipaen (21-5-0), while Tapales (41-4-0) stamped his class against Venezuelan Fernando Toro (11-3-0). Bacosa, on the other hand, scored his seventh career win against one draw while Ballesteros put his rival down the canvas for his sixth triumph.

“Confident ako na mananalo pero sabi kasi ng coach ko, wag masyadong gigil, wag masyadong habol kasi darating din po ‘yon eh,” said Manny Pacquiao’s son Bacosa, who floored Nico Salado in the fourth round.