Written by Pow Salud
The moment when your name is called after a closely contested boxing match, especially when you knew you lost the last round because of a knockdown—this is what “Tears of Joy” looks like.
Giemel Magramo and Judy Flores fought in a 12-round battle at Okada, Manila, for the OPBF Super Flyweight Championship on October 21, 2024, in the main event of the Blow by Blow boxing event, promoted by Manny Pacquiao.
This matchup was among the top discussions among local boxing pundits, as it was expected to be a great showdown worthy of the main event—and it delivered. Giemel Magramo, the faster and more aggressive boxer, pushed the pace throughout the rounds, trying to close the gap against his lengthier opponent. But Judy Flores was prepared, maneuvering his way out and countering with combinations that, at times, seemed to frustrate Magramo. It was a clash of styles, with each fighter trying to impose their game plan on the other. Ultimately, the fight lived up to its expectations. Flores picked his shots and landed solid, straight combinations, while Magramo used his veteran experience to close the distance, score points, and land his overhand punches.
As the fight drew closer to the end, it became clear that both camps knew they needed to win the last couple of rounds. And I was right—the final rounds felt like threading a needle. Both fighters took more risks, looking to finish strong. However, in the 12th round, Giemel Magramo was caught by a right-hand counter that sent him to the canvas. Initially, some people in the venue were skeptical about whether it was a legitimate knockdown, but after reviewing and watching videos from different angles, I believe referee Oliver Garcia made the right call.
Magramo eventually got up from the count, but that knockdown cost him 2 points in the last round. The thought of losing a close fight because of that knockdown could have haunted him.
As the fight concluded and we awaited the decision, there was nothing more the fighters could do but wait. I’m almost certain they were replaying each action in their minds, thinking about what they could have done better. Unfortunately, at that moment, it’s all wishful thinking.
Then came Bobby Mondejar, the classic voice of Blow by Blow, ready to announce the winner. With anticipation from the fans and the boxers, he read the scorecards: Silvestre Abainza, 115-112 Magramo; Brembot Dulalas, 115-112 Flores; and Edwin Barrientos, 114-113 Magramo. Winner by Split Decision Giemel Magramo.
And with that, Giemel Magramo became a 2-time,2 Division OPBF Champion and the new OPBF Super Flyweight Champion. He raised his hands in celebration of his hard-fought victory, but as OPBF supervisor Arnie Najera wrapped the beautiful belt around his waist, a moment of realization hit him. All the doubts about the fight disappeared, and it was time to truly let go of his emotions.
And there it was—Giemel Magramo’s Tears of Joy.
A boxing action truly worthy of the main event.
