Friday, May 02, 2008 Final push for glory By Edri Z. Aznar Sun.Star Staff Reporter
AFTER failing in their shots for a world title, Cebuano boxing stars Rodel Mayol and Bert Batawang take their first step towards redemption as they headline the “Back on Track” boxing promotion at the Cebu Coliseum against a couple of Thai fighters.
Both boxers have already failed in the past in their title bouts, with both losing to International Boxing Federation light flyweight king Ulises Solis last year. Mayol lost in eight rounds, while Batawang was downed in the ninth.
Promoter Sammy Gello-ani gave the two fighters a chance to redeem themselves from their past failure in two very crucial fights on Saturday night that will determine if they are still worthy to fight for a world title.
“I’m thankful that I have been given another chance to prove my worth to fight for a world championship fight or to retire,” said Mayol in the press conference at the Hotel Fortuna yesterday.
The hard-hitting Mayol (23-3, 18 KOs) will be facing Wisan Sor Suchanya (9-6, 2 KOs) in a 10-rounder, while the veteran Batawang (51-7, 35 KOs) will trade leathers with knockout artist Samransak Singmansak (32-13-1, 26 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Organization Oriental crown.
Mayol is coming off a loss to undefeated Adrian Hernandez, while Batawang is fresh from a seventh round KO victory over Indonesian Heri Amol.
And tomorrow, Mayol is looking to end the fight early.
Need for KO
“I need to knock my opponent out. I’ll try my best because I’m facing a tough opponent,” said Mayol.
On the other hand, another Cebuano who has also tasted defeat in a title fight will be seeing action in the undercard. Frederico Catubay (20-14-3, 11 KOs), who lost to Vic Darchinyan for the vacant International Boxing Organization flyweight title last year, will face new comer Brix Ray of the Tony Dacer Stable in a 10-round bout.
In the other supporting bouts, up and rising boxer Eric Macas (8-0, 5 KOs) of Bong Yap Stable will be up against veteran journeyman Pedro Malco (14-18-2, 5 KO’s) for a 10-round battle; Roemart Sentillas (3-0) will fight Ed Earl Orellano (4-0-1) for eight rounds; Ryan Tampus of Wakee Salud Stable will face Jerome Aguirre; Chum Sedillo will face Rosendo Navares of Ozamis City; and Ariel Adan of Tuñacao Stable will face Arnel Dunal of Chao Sy Stable.
This boxing extravaganza is promoted by SGG Sports Promotions in cooperation with Viva Sports.
