TWO-TIME world champion Vic Saludar is at a crucial stage in his career right now, wherein a win could bring him back up to the championship level and a loss could ruin his career.
Coming off back-to-back losses, the 32-year-old Saludar is out to redeem himself as he takes on hungry up-and-comer Ariston Aton for the vacant Asian Boxing Federation (ABF) minimumweight belt in the main event of “Rumble in Naga” at Enan Chiong Activity Center in Naga City, Cebu on Dec. 21.
“I’ll do my best to give everybody a good fight,” said Saludar.
“I won’t promise a knockout, it’ll just come.”
Saludar lost his World Boxing Association (WBA) minimumweight belt to Erick Rosa by split decision last year. He then lost to Oscar Collazo by unanimous decision on July 16.
“If I’m given a chance to fight for a world title, then I’ll try and take it again,” said Saludar.
Even though he lost his last two contests, Saludar is still ranked No. 6 in the WBA.
The 22-year-old Aton is looking to end his slump after losing his last four fights. He’s eager to earn a win after losing Tatsuro Nakashima, Tsubasa Kuora, Simphiwe Khonco and recently, Jake Amparo.
Saludar is 21-6 with 11 knockouts, while Aton is 9-5 with five knockouts.
In the undercard, Speedy Boy Acope (2-0, 1 KO) slugs it out with battle-scarred veteran John Rey Lauza (13-25-5, 6 KOs); Michael Adolfo (3-0, 1 KO) squares off with experienced Anthony Galigao (9-18, 4 KOs); Grant Elorza (2-1-2, 1 KO) faces off with Jaspn Mopon (7-17, 1 KO); Cherwellan Cantel (1-0, 1 KO) is up against Mark Anthony Rotilles (2-9, 1 KO); Jakeson Saludar (4-1, 4 KOs) squares off with Jimpol Dignos (2-6, 1 KO); Raffie Jamero makes his pro debut against fellow newcomer Joebert Dacullo; George Sedillo (0-0-2) clashes with rookie Dondi Lariosa Janonillo; Johnro Taneo (2-0, 2 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten against Marlon Alejandro (2-3); and Kier Torregosa (1-2-1, 1 KO) takes on Henry Flor (0-2).