Another Ilonggo boxer is making a name in the international ring.
Making his way, Ilonggo Arnel Baconaje took home the Philippine Games and Amusements Board super featherweight belt after a unanimous decision win over Jhon Gemino at Okada Manila Hotel and Casino in Parañaque City.
Both fighters showed powerful attacks and punches but its was the Ilonggo fighter who got the nod of the three judges with the scores of 116-112, 116-112, 117-111.
It was a sweet victory for the native of San Rafael, Iloilo after losing his last two matches including a split decision defeat to Philippine Boxing Federation super featherweight champion Presco Carcosia.
Baconaje had a dominant start in the first three rounds with his volume punches and combinations but was threatened by Gemino’s strong response in the fourth, fifth and sixth rounds.
The 29-year-old Ilonggo controlled the action well in the succeeding rounds as he relentlessly jabbing, shoulder rolling defense, and answering Gemino with straight rights and uppercuts.
After winning the game, Baconaje improved his boxing record to 16 wins and seven losses, with 11 victories by way of stoppages, while the 31-year-old Gemino dropped his record to 23-17-1 win-loss-draw, with 13 KO wins.
Meanwhile, Negrense fighter Herlan Sixto Gomez has successfully retained the ASEAN Boxing Federation (ABF) bantamweight belt after a second round stoppage win over Thai Jakpan Sangtong at the Spaceplus Bangkok RCA in Thailand.
It was the second successful defense of the Enrique B. Magalona, Negros Occidental-native boxer after hammering Thai Wicha Phulaikhao last February.
With the victory, the 23-year-old Gomez improved his boxing record to nine wins and one loss, with six wins by way of stoppages, while Sangtong dropped to 12-8-0, with 11 knockout wins.IMT Sports
