Baron Geisler is quite popular in media these days, but it’s not the way his publicist wouldn’t have wanted. Instead of being praised for his acting chops (he won Best Actor for Jay at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival in 2008), he is reported on for the increasing number of his public outbursts. After a tousle with a film student, he is again at the center of attention for his brawl with indie actor Kiko Matos.
According to Matos, the fight started at a bar in Quezon City when he and his friends asked Geisler to step down from the stage. Geisler then told them to get out of the bar. That’s when Matos approached him and punched him.
On the other hand, Geisler said that he doesn’t know why he was attacked, and that he was only defending himself. He also claimed that he was defending a bartender Matos was accosting, which Matos denied.
This incident was amplified on social media, when they were invited to fight MMA-style at the Universal Reality Combat Championship cage.
However, one boxing gym doesn’t seem to think it’s a good idea. The gym posted an open letter on Facebook, saying:
Dear Sirs,
I don’t exactly know the circumstances of your altercation, or the desired end results, but I am pleading one thing. You both are gentlemen who have etched names in the world for sport, theater, cinema and yes, Mr. Matos. We did volunteer work together if you remember me.
I have been through a lot growing up. I am five days from 39, and am now a devoted family man. I have battle scars enough to
prove that not all of my fighting was done in competition. If a .45 slug on my left knee doesn’t say anything , I don’t know what would.Mr. Geisler, you are a Sensei of an Olympic Sport. My son is an active Judoka. He looks up to athletes. Mr. Matos, you are kind and creative beyond what people just see. A genuine artist. My son also looks up to people like you.
The gym says that violence will only lead to more violence.
Just so you know I have absolute respect for anyone that believes in the “old school way.” Settling things like gentlemen in the old days. That is a genuine show of bravado, and perhaps honor.
These days however, when our nation is going through change, and a great many are oppressed, hungry, thirsty, and in need of medicine or shelter, I implore you both to take some time off, and discuss matters and attempt to resolve your issues with peace. If no agreement can be made, then part as the civilized gentlemen you both are. With a handshake and a farewell.
This way you both will win the hearts of many that are watching this issue. Nowadays people are so immersed in politics and argument, isn’t it a ripe time to show that we as Filipinos can show compassion, kindness, forgiveness and respect?
He ends his letter with, “I beg you, please come to terms.”
Do you agree with him? Share your thoughts below!
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