REIGNING Asian Boxing Federation (ABF) lightweight champion Merlito “Tiger” Sabillo (26-4-1, 13KOs) will defend his belt against Crimson Omayao of Valencia, Bukidnon in a 3 p.m. face-off Friday, October 20, at Barangay Granada gym in Bacolod City.
Undefeated Jayr Raquinel (7-0-1, 5KOs) of Cauayan, Negros Occidental will try to snatch the Interim Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) flyweight title against Richard Rosales (12-4-2, 7KOs) of Tagbilaran, Bohol.
At 105.5 lbs in Thursday’s official weigh-in, the 33-year-old Sabillo, who captured his ABF belt on a third-round stoppage over Indonesian veteran Jack “Destroyer” Amisa, said that winning the ABF title only proved that he can still fight for another world championship.
“I’m optimistic that I can still achieve it,” said Sabillo, who thanked boxing promoter Naris Singwacha of Thailand for being instrumental in his comeback fights after losing his WBO minimumweight titles.
Omayao, who registered 107.5 lbs., said that he will give his best in the fight.
The main undercard is also expected to be a tough fight between fighters coming off impressive victories. Back in May, Raquinel booked a stoppage win over Murcia’s Elmer Liboon in the opening round of their scheduled six-round clash while Rosales registered a technical knout win against Rey Morano at the start of the second round.
Also to be featured are supporting pro and amateur fights in this event dubbed as Fist of Glory: Double Championship – Road to Glory.
This boxing event is sanctioned by the Games and Amusement Board headed by Chairman Abraham Khalil Mitra.
