2 boxing champs to see action in Caloocan bout

DAVAO CITY – Undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Asia Youth flyweight champion Dave "Dobermann" Apolinario and former World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim Light Flyweight champion Randy Petalcorin will see action in the Sanman-ESPN5 event on June 9 at the TV5 Studio in Caloocan.

The 20-year-old Apolinario is seeking his 11th victory with six knockouts as he faces fellow Pinoy warrior Adrian Lerasan (7W-3L-0D, 1KO).

“My opponent is no pushover. He is a legit fighter and will not take him lightly,” said Apolinario, who is making his third appearance on ESPN5.

“I need a big win for me to get to the bigger fights,” added Apolinario.

Petalcorin (29W-3L-1D, 22KO), on the other hand, will be back in action from months of hiatus as he faces Thai warrior Worawatchai Boonja (14W-21L-1D, 13KO).

The 27-year-old Petalcorin wants to redeem himself this time. He was heartbroken and took a needed break in order to re-assess himself and the direction of his boxing career. On October 29, 2018, Petalcorin lost via a seventh round knockout to Felix Alvarado of Nicaragua in front of  hometown fans at the Midas Hotel and Casino in Pasay City, losing his chance to snatch the vacant IBF World Light Flyweight championship belt.

“But now I’m ready to pick up the pieces and do better. I learned my lessons the hard way and now it’s time for redemption,” Petalcorin said.

He added that he is still in his prime and can still be a world champion.

“Now I got a tough Thai opponent to beat and I will do my best to impress my fans. It adds motivation that the fight will be on live national TV again”, Petalcorin said.

Sanman Chief Executive Office Jim Claude Manangquil expressed his confidence in Petalcorin.

“It’s a make or break for him (Petalcorin),” he said.

The events will be aired via ESPN5. (PNA)