Carl Jammes Martin title plans have widened. The unbeaten Filipino took a split decision over David Picasso in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on the undercard of the Canelo Alvarez-Christian Mbilli WBC super-middleweight title fight.
The 27-year-old from Ifugao is 29-0 with 21 KOs and is ranked No. 1 by the WBO at super-bantamweight. He spoke at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum at the Philippine Sports Commission media room, joined by his father and trainer Abel Martin.
Carl Jammes Martin title priorities
Martin said he wants a higher-rated name than Picasso next, with a world championship the target. He placed the super-bantamweight belt ahead of a featherweight option.
"For me I want someone higher than Picasso. Someone in the top three or top four ranking, and we want a bigger name, and a world championship next."
"But our priority is the championship in the super-bantamweight division."
"But if there is an offer for a championship at featherweight, I will stay there for now."
Picasso lost to Inoue by unanimous decision last year. Martin, who had a small mark below his right eye, said the Mexican asked for a rematch after the bout.
David Picasso rematch
"I said okay. I have one word, I have a commitment, and I will do what you offered me. Because I climbed up to his division, so why would I not grant his wish?"
Abel Martin on the next schedule
Abel Martin said the next step depends on what the handlers led by international matchmaker Sean Gibbons offer. He said Gibbons told them only to be ready.
"Sir Sean Gibbons mentioned that we should just prepare. So maybe we will rest for one month."
"Just little by little, so that when the schedule comes, we can start regular training."
Analysis: what the split decision changes
This section is analysis. The result keeps Martin undefeated and leaves him ranked No. 1 by the WBO at super-bantamweight. A top ranking generally converts into negotiating position rather than a guaranteed date, so the immediate gain is optionality: a title bout at super-bantamweight, or a featherweight offer if one arrives first.
The original report is from philstar.com.