Bangkok, Thailand
One of two Thai shows this past Friday came from Bangkok where fans had the chance to see a number of local fighters continue their careers.

The main event saw the promising Nop Kratingdaenggym (13-0, 3) retain his PABA Super Bantamweight title with a 4th round KO win against Indonesian veteran Nouldy Manakane (29-19-2, 18). For Nop, who scored just his third win, this was a good name on his record and came against a former world title challenger, saying that however Manakane has been stopped in 3 of his last 4 and it seems clear he's little more than an opponent now a days.

In the co feature we saw Amin Sor Wangmoo (12-1-2, 10) fight to a technical draw with Julio de la Basez (20-18-8, 12), due to a nasty cut suffered by Basez following a head clash in what was a bout marred by clashes.

In a clear mismatch Taiwo Ali (18-3-1, 13) made light work of Mikado Jittigym (0-2), with Ali taking an opening round KO. The Thai based Nigerian fighter is certainly one to keep an eye on and proves that foreigners can make a name for themselves in the land of smiles.

Another mismatch saw Dennapa Kiatniwat (7-0, 4) score a 2nd round KO against Petchmanee Kor Kaewket (0-1) whilst the very promising Montree PKT College (3-0, 2) scored a 4th round KO win against Yodduangjai Lookmingkwan (0-1). It is worth noting that we know Montree's current boxrec record is incomplete due to the fact he has fought under an alternative name.

Lampang, Thailand
The other show in Thailand, put on by Kokiet Group, featured two of Thailand's most promising prospects along with a former world title challenger.

Thet former title challenger was Samartlek Kokietgym (23-5, 8) who stopped Fanther Ndahiuw (7-5-1, 3) to claim the WBC ABCO Minimumweight title. Samartlek, best known for his bout with Naoya Inoue, has now reeled off 6 straight wins since his defeat to the Monster.

Samartlek's stablemate Norasing Kokietgym (17-0-1, 13) made very light work of Indonesian teenager Kichang Kim (6-3-1, 1), who was stopped in the 2nd round of a regional title bout.

Another unbeaten prospect in action here was Kongthara KKP (10-0, 8) who continued his unbeaten run with a 5th round KO over Ricky Morales (4-4-1). This was a step down in class for Kongthara who does look like a genuinely promising prospect. Another unbeaten fighter on this card was Petchsiam Sor Kulawong (3-0, 2) who beat Khunsuk Laos PDR (0-1) with a 6 round decision.

Shanghai, China
In China fans had the chance to see a number of novices in action with 10 bouts, all set for the 4 round distance.

Of the 10 bouts on the show 3 failed to reach the final bell. The shortest of those bouts saw Chang Su (4-0, 3) score a 1st round TKO win over Baolin Li (0-1), who was one of numerous debutants on the card. Another stoppage saw Aizi Aili (1-0, 1) defeat Yubo Ruan (0-1) in the second round whilst Yongle Feng (1-0, 1) stopped Nan Zhao (0-1) in the third round.

The most competitive bout ended in a draw as Alimu Tuersun (2-0-1) was unable to over-come Ju Xiang Huang (0-2-1). Another close bout saw Yeerduosi Jieensi (1-0) take a narrow majority decision win over YunFeng Zhou (0-1). A third close decision saw Xian hai Zhan (1-0) take a majority decision over Guo Ji Lin (0-1-1).

The other bouts were all unanimous decisions. These included a win for Peng Chao (1-0), who beat Bo Hao Sun (1-1, 1), Zhi Quan Xia (1-0-1) who beat Zheng Peng Young (0-1), Li Quan Lin (3-1-1, 1), who beat Jun Zhao (0-1) and Yelieqiati Nihemaituola (4-0), who extended his perfect record with a win over Chenan Lu (0-1).

Bangkok, Thailand
The action in Thailand continued on Friday afternoon when we had a trio of bouts in Bangkok, those bouts included a former world title challenger and promising prospect, two of which collided in a genuine barn burner. Incidentally all 3 bouts saw Thai locals taking on Indonesian visitors.

The former world title challenger was former WBC Light Flyweight challenger Samartlek Kokietgym (22-5, 7) who scored a rare KO win as he stopped limited Indonesian Iwan Key (9-13-3, 1). This was Key's 7th stoppage loss and Samartlek is now 5-0 since being beaten by the sensational Naoya Inoue a year ago.

One of the prospects on this card who picked up a win was Kongthara KKP (9-0, 7) who scored a 3rd round KO win against the visiting Rasmanudin (19-11-3, 3). For 2 rounds Kongthara fought in neutral gear and did very little before moving through the gears in round 3. When Kongthara upped the pace Rasmanudin had no answer and was dropped 3 times forcing the referee to stop the bout.

The highlight of the card was a rematch between Indonesian teenager Iwan Zoda (7-1, 6) and the previously unbeaten Petchchohae Kokietgym (13-1, 8), in a bout for the interim WBO Asia Pacific Flyweight title. Last year Petchchorhae took a decision over Zoda this time around however it was Zoda coming out on top as he battered Petchchorhae to force a 12th round stoppage. Early on it was Petchchorhae on top, but in the middle rounds Zoda came on strong before brutally beating the Thai up in rounds 11 and 12 before the eventual finish. At just 18 years old we really do think that Zoda is going to be the next star of Indonesian boxing and this performance showed just how good he really is.

This past Saturday wasn't a busy day though their was some notable action involving Asian fighters.

Bristol, United Kingdom
The most notable bout involving an Asian fighter came in England where fans saw Japan's Ryosuke Iwasa (19-2, 13) fall short in hist attempt to become the first Japanese fighter to claim a world title in Europe. The talented “Eagle Eye” was out boxed early on by the tricky Lee Haskins (32-3, 14) before being stopped in the 6th by the Englishman who dropped Iwasa with the best shot he will ever connect with. A follow up attack by Haskins saw the English stop Iwasa to claim the IBF interim Bantamweight title.

Thailand
As for action in Asia there was a show in Thailand on Channel 3.

One of the big names in action was former Light Flyweight world champion Kompayak Porpramook (52-5, 37) who stopped Indonesian journeyman Domi Nenokeba (11-23-1, 7) in the 3rd round. The ending highly anti-climatic with Nenokeba looking happy for a way out of the bout. This was Kompayak's second bout in the space of just 6 weeks after spending more than a year out of the ring.

There was also a former world title challenger on this card Samartlek Kokietgym (21-5, 6) who easily defeated novice Fahpratan Kwanjaisrikot (0-2). Fahpratan, to his credit, tried to fight off his more experienced foe but Samartlek wouldn't be denied and eventually Smartlek wore away his foe who was stopped with a sweeping 2-punch combination.

Another notable bout on this card saw the unbeaten Norasing Kokietgym (16-0-1, 12) take a 9th round retirement win over Indonesian fighter Tommy Seran (24-6, 15), who stayed in his corner at the start of round 9.

Queensland, Australia
In Australia things were very disappointing for female fighter Rienthong Rongrien Kila Korat (0-2) who was blasted out in just 106 seconds by former world title challenger Shannon O'Connell (11-3, 6). Rienthong was dropped twice with the referee waving off the bout after the second knock down.

(Image courtesy of boxingscene.com)

Metro Manila, Philippines
The first major action of the day came in the Philippines where promotional giant ALA Promotions put on Pinoy Pride 30. The show was the first blockbuster event from the Philippines this year and featured 4 major title bouts, including a world title contest.

The card began with the unbeaten Ralph Jhon Lulu (11-0-2, 5) struggling past the limited Gerry Patieno (4-8-2, 2) in an unconvincing performance from the unbeaten man. The bout saw Lulu take a 4 round majority decision but not really impressing anyone. The other 4 rounder on the show was much more impressive as the exciting Joepher Montano (3-0, 2) stopped Australian visitor Tyson Maher (0-2) in a really enjoyable contest. Montano may only be at the start of his career but it's clear he's going to be a lot of fun to follow, win or lose.

In an 8 rounder fans saw the heavy handed Jeson Umbal (8-3, 6) drop Eric Panza (7-4-1, 1) twice en route to a close decision win. The knockdowns were the difference between a unanimous decision win for Umbal and a majority decision draw between the two men where well matched to say the least. The other 8 rounder was less well matched as AJ Banal (33-2-1, 22) clearly and easily over-came Indonesian visitor Junior Bajawa (14-6, 7). Banal was bothered in later rounds following a headclash but dominated the fight and took home a very wide decision win.

The first of the show's title bouts saw ALA's newest international signing, Ryo Akaho (26-1-2, 18), in action. Akaho claimed the WBO International Bantamweight title with relative ease as he destroyed the under-sized and under-skilled Prosper Ankrah (24-5-0-1, 15) in the 4th round of their bout. Ankrah had some success but never enough to make Akaho respect him and it always seemed like Ankrah was fighting to survive than to win. This victory for Akaho was his 7th since he was beaten by Yota Sato in a WBC Super Flyweight title bout back in 2012 and it looks like Akaho is now ready for another shot at world honours.

Arguably the stand out performance came from promising youngster Albert Pagara (23-0, 16), who looked sensational as he defended his IBF Inter-Continental Super Bantamweight title against the heavy handed but limited Rodolfo Hernandez (26-6-1, 24). Pagara dropped Hernandez in the opening round then dominated him until the end of round 4. Hernandez then remained in his corner citing an injury with his hand, though it looked more like a case of “get me out of here” from the Mexican.

In the co-feature of the show fans saw the return to the Philippines of the popular Nonito Donaire (34-3, 22) who had a showcase win against the hapless William Prado (22-5-1, 15). Prado had only been stopped by WBA Super Bantamweight champion Scott Quigg, in 3 rounds, prior to this but Donaire dismantled him in just a couple of rounds. Prado landed little through out the bout and looked distraught every time Donaire caught him. With this win Donaire claimed the NABF Super Bantamweight title and is now expected to move towards a world title bout at Super Bantamweight.

In the main event fans saw long term world champion Donnie Nietes (35-1-4, 21) successfully retain his WBO Light Flyweight title with an impressive victory over the dangerous Gilberto Parra (19-3, 17). Nietes started fast and looked to be trying to make a statement early on. Parra saw out the early storm and fought gallantly in the middle rounds, particularly round 6. Sadly however for the challenger a knockdown in round 8 was the start of the end and he retired after the 9th round after suffering a nasty cut around the left eye. Prior to the retirement he was always looking second best and appeared to know it spending several rounds trying to avoid a fight with excellent champion.

Yucatán, Mexico
We had another world title bout in Mexico where the diminutive Rommel Asenjo (26-4, 20) took on the sensational Juan Francisco Estrada (32-2, 23). Sadly for Asenjo this never looked like it was going to go his way and although he was competitive in a very quiet opening round that was about the only positive he could take from the bout. In round 2 Estrada moved into third gear and appeared capable of battering Asenjo at will. The challenger came out for round 3 though less than a minute into the round his corner threw in the towel in a disappointing ending to the bout. The conclusion was less than great though Asenjo's face was already beginning to look a swollen mess courtesy of Estrada's power which was having an effect every time he landed.

Thailand
In a low profile show in Thailand fans got the chance to see two former world title challengers both pick up decision wins.

One of those men was Samartlek Kokietgym (20-5, 5) who over-came the experienced but limited Jack Amisa (20-35-2, 14). For Samartlek this was a third straight win since he came up short in a WBC Light Flyweight title fight against Naoya Inoue, though it seems clear that he's much more comfortable at this level

The other winner was the highly experienced Pigmy Kokietgym (56-7-2, 22) who over-came Heri Amol (35-23-4, 14). This was Pigmy's 4th bout since he came up short last year against Hekkie Budler in a WBA title fight in Monaco.

Queensland, Australia
In Australia there was a trio of Thai's in action.

The highest profile of those Thail's was Chaiyong Sithsaithong (36-13-4, 26) who came up short against Paul Fleming (20-0, 13) in a bout for the WBO Oriental Super Featherweight title. Sithsaithong managed to see out the 10 round schedule here against the talented but did see a 4-fight winning run come to an end.

In one of the main support bouts Wisanlek Sithsaithong (11-7, 7) was stopped, in 4 rounds, by Australian Jason Cooper (13-2-1, 7). For Cooper this was a 5th successive win following his 2014 loss to Qiu Xiao Jun whilst the Thai was stopped for the 5th time in his career.

Also on this card fans had the chance to see professional loser Pramool Boonpok (1-13-1) pick up another defeat as Australian fighter Reuben Aiono (2-0-1, 1) took a 5 round decision win.


(Image courtesy of boxingnews.jp)

This past Saturday was a hectic day in boxing with fights all over the place.

Osaka, Japan
On paper the most notable show came from Japan where fans had the chance to catch a couple of world title bouts and another bout featuring a 2-weight world champion. The show wasn't big or attention grabbing but for fans of female boxing it was a notable card.

In one of the title fights everyone was left disappointed as a headclash brought a very early ending to the contest. This was a bout for the WBO Female Minimumweight title, with defending champion Kumiko Seeser Ikehara (6-1-2, 3) recording her first defense courtesy of a technical draw against Filipino challenger Jessebelle Pagaduan (7-1-1, 4). The headclash happened in the opening round and later required 10 stitches for Ikehara who as, clearly, disappointed about how she recorded the first defense of her title.

The other title fight saw WBO Atomweight champion Nao Ikeyama (16-3-1, 4) successfully defending her velt for the second time. The 45 year old Ikeyama looked like she had the energy of a teenager as she thoroughly out worked, out fought and swarmed Filipino challenger Norj Guro (7-4-1, 4). Guro, more than 20 years Ikeyama's junior, was never in the fight after round 3 and was often forced to survive the assaults of the champion rather than really fight back.

In the chief support bout fans saw former 2-weight world champion Mari Ando (12-7, 5) score a hard fought 6 round decision win over Jujeath Nagaowa (12-14-1, 8). This was Ando's first bout since she lost the WBC female Minimumweight title to Yuko Kuroki last year and it seems likely Ando will chase another title bout. Sadly for Nagaowa this was her 3rd straight loss and she is now 1-3 since losing to Momo Koseki back in June 2012.

The under-card here featured 3 bouts each of which were 4 rounders. One of those was another female bout as the unbeaten Yu Shoji (1-0-1, 1) fought to a 4 round split decision draw with Wakako Fujiwara (0-1-1). Another of the bouts saw Daiki Miyayama (4-2-1, 2) defeat the debuting Yuta Teruya (0-1) whilst Hiroshi Takagi (3-4) defeated Naoki Okamura (1-2) in a close decision.

Metro Manila, Philippines
In the Philippines fans had an interesting show that featured a world ranked fighter and several others looking to prove themselves as “men to watch”.

The world ranked fighter was the promising Rene Patilano (13-1-2, 7) who made extremely light work of domestic journeyman Aroel Romasasa (11-9, 5). Romasasa, who had entered the bout with 8 straight losses and that form showed as he was blown away in just 140 seconds. Sadly for Romasasa it now seems clear he needs to think about a new career.

The Patilano/Romasasa was one of 3 bouts scheduled for 10 rounds and the others both went the distance. One of those saw the talented Randy Braga (15-0-1, 3) take a very clear decision win over Cristian Abila (24-16-3, 4) who struggled to win a round. Braga, who does seem to be better than many domestic Filipino's, now looks ready for a real step up. Sadly things weren't so successful for Jay Loto (9-0-1) who was held to a majority draw by JC Francisco (6-9-4, 2) in a genuine shock. For Francisco this was a great result considering he had lost 3 of his previous 4, for Loto however this is a big hit to his career.

Lower down the card the light hitting Jeffrey Francisco (11-1-1, 1) scored his first stoppage as he forced Arjet Caballes (6-33-5, 3) to retire from their scheduled 8 round bout.

In a 6 rounder the unbeaten Wilbert Berondo (6-0, 3) stopped the over-matched Ryan Medez (1-4-2) with less than a minute of their bout left whilst another 6 rounder saw Vergel Nebran (13-8-1, 8) out pointed Prell Tupaz (8-27-4, 1). A more competitive 6 rounder saw Roderick Flores (6-0-1, 2) narrowly out point Junjie Lauza (4-14-1, 1) in a surprisingly competitive contest.

The begin the card there were 4 bouts scheduled for 4 rounds. One of those saw the unbeaten Abraham Bullagay (2-0-1, 2) score a 3rd round stoppage over the win-less Oscar Lim (0-3), who has now been stopped in all 3 bouts. Another contest that failed to go the distance saw Robin Langres (4-0, 1) take a 3rd round technical decision over the win-less Manny Mamamcquiao (0-5-1). Langres's win as one of two technical decisions on this part of the card as Bryan Ascano (3-0, 1) also went to the judges early in his win over Jerwin Dela Rosa (1-5). The only 4 round to reach the scheduled final bell saw Arvin Yurong (2-0, 1) take a wide decision over the debuting Raymond Dela Cruz (0-1).

Pattaya, Thailand
In one of two Thai shows fans saw a former world title challenger and an unbeaten prospect.

The former title challenger was Samartlek Kokietgym (19-5, 5) who famously challenged Naoya Inoue last year. Samartlek scored his second win since that Inoue bout as he over-came Indonesian visitor Ichal Tobida (11-15, 8) in a 6 round bout. Of course it wasn't just Samartlek who had a high profile bout in Japan last year with Tobida being knocked out by former world champion Ryo Miyazaki last September. Sadly for Tobida he is now 0-4 in the last 12 months, though he did manage to see out the scheduled this time following successive stoppage losses.

The unbeaten prospect on this card was Payu Sor Kulawong (3-0) who scored his third straight win as he over-came the win-less Somchay Sithhongkam (0-2), from nearby Laos. This was a rematch of a bout fought in January that saw both men making their debut against each other.

Samut Songkhram, Thailand
In a second Thai show fans saw the unbeaten and heavy handed Chalermpol Singwancha (12-0, 10) take out Indonesia's Wellem Reyk (17-12-3, 5) in the opening stages of round 5. This was Chalermpol's 4th straight KO though they have come against limited foes, such as Reyk here who has now lost 5 in a row with 3 stoppages in that run.

Baja California, Mexico
In Mexico we saw a disappointing defeat for Filipino fighter Jether Oliva (22-3-2, 10) who was stopped by unbeaten Mexican Luis Nery (16-0, 11). Oliva was returning to Mexico for the first time since his loss in an IBF Light Flyweight world title bout against Ulises Solis and it seems clear he was simply too small for the Mexican. Oliva was game early on but remained on his stool at the start of round 5 having taken enough from the promising Nery.

Hamburg, Germany
In a Cruiserweight bout fans saw the unbeaten Isa Akberbayev (15-0-0-1, 11) score an impressively quick victory over 40 year old Argentinian puncher Ruben Angel Mino (25-2, 25), who lasted less than a round. Mino's impressive record belies his inability to really fight and he has now been stopped in both of his step up bouts. As for the unbeaten Kazakh this is his best win on paper and is his 4th successive stoppage win.

Managua, Nicaragua
Teiken promoted Nicaraguan fighter Roman Gonzalez (42-0, 36) continued his long unbeaten run as he made light work of Valentin Leon (38-29-3, 21) in what was essentially a stay busy fight for the talented “Chocolatito”, who is now expected to make a mandatory defense of his WBC Flyweight title.


(Image courtesy of boxingnews.jp)

This past Saturday was an insanely busy day for Asian boxing fans with more fights than you can shake a stick at....

Pattaya, Thailand
Fans in Thailand had televised action featuring a pair of former world title challengers and a very interesting all debutant bout.

One of those former title challengers was 3-time title contender Sod Kokietgym (64-3-1, 28) who was fighting for the first time since his opening round defeat to Guillermo Rigondeaux in Macau. Sod may have been blown away by the Cuban Jackal but he was successful today as he over-came the previously unbeaten Jaoquim Mahe (8-1, 4) of France. Mahe, also known as Joaquim Redbluegym, saw a run of 2 wins in Thailand come to an end with this loss.

The other former world title challenger was Samartlek Kokietgym (18-5, 5) who fought for the first time since he was stopped by Naoya Inoue in a WBC Light Flyweight title fight. Samartlek, like Sod, was facing an unbeaten visitor though managed to inflict his opponents first defeat as he out pointed Filipino Richie Behec (2-1-1, 1).

In an excellent all debutant bout Mai Lookboonmee (1-0) took a decision over Sorn Sakwaroon (0-1). Sadly for Sorn he was one of 3 debutants to suffer a defeat on this show. Another debutant who came up short was Lekkla Sor Petchwandee (0-1) who was beaten by Sayu Sor Kulawong (2-0) over 6 rounds.

The only stoppage on the card was scored by Filipino visitor Joan Imperial (11-5-6, 6) who recorded his second win in Thailand this year as he took an opening round TKO against Chaiyaphon Nupphon (0-1).

Davao del Sur, Philippines
Although there was action in Thailand much of the day's Asian action was in the Philippines as the country hosted two separate shows. On paper the best of those was n Davao del Sur on a card featuring a number of notable names.

One of those notable names was the unbeaten Adones Cabalquinto (19-0, 12) who made very light work of the horribly over-matched Denkamon Pakdee Gym (12-4, 5). Cabalquinto claimed the IBF Australasian title at 140lbs as he stopped Denkamon early in round 3.

Another of the notable fighters in action was the exciting Aston Palicte (16-1, 14) who needed just 131 seconds to dispose of Jomyuthlek Sor Narongchai (12-3, 5) and claim the IBF Youth Super Flyweight title. This was the 5th successive opening round blow out by “Mighty”, who had previously blown away the tough Gerpaul Valero, and we suspect he'll continue to impress with wins like this.

Marlon Tapales (27-2, 10) was another notable name on this show and he too scored an early win as he stopped Jecker Buhawe (16-11-1, 10) in the 2nd round. This was Tapales's 6th straight win since he was narrowly beaten in Mexico by David Sanchez and we'd not be shocked to see Tapales eyeing up a big fight at some point this year.

Yet another notable fighter on this card to score an early win was Drian Francisco (27-2-1, 21) who stopped compatriot Jason Egara (21-12, 10) in the 8th round to record his third successive win since he was beaten by American Chris Avalos last July.

It wasn't all notable names on the card, nor was it all expected results and in a notable upset fans saw Ronerex Dalut (9-15-2, 2) shock the previously unbeaten Marvilou Aballe (5-1, 2) by split decision over 8 rounds. Sadly this was the only real shock result.

A fighter who managed to keep his unbeaten record by decision on this card was Jay-ar Inson (7-0, 4) who out pointed Gabby Siempo (5-6-1, 1) over 8 rounds. Another unbeaten fighter to pick up a win in a scheduled 8 rounder was Rimar Metuda (5-0, 1) who stopped veteran Philip Parcon (26-20-3, 8) in the 2nd round of their bout. The only other 8 round bout saw the once beaten Orlie Silvestre (4-1-1, 3) force a retirement of Ryan Ralozo (8-14-2, 2) after 4 rounds.

In the sole 6 rounder Gerald Paclar (2-1, 1) out pointed the previously unbeaten Rene Mark Cuarto (3-1, 1) in what was a minor upset. The card began with a trio of 4 rounders. These included an all debutant affair that saw Ronnie Badonado (1-0, 1) stop Baltazar Susas (0-1) in the second round of their contest, in what was the only early conclusion on this part of the card. In a contest between win-less fighters we saw Jose Aballe (1-1) take a decision against the still win-less Sammy Caballero (0-2) and in a very competitive bout Aries Buenavidez (2-0) took a majority decision over Jayson Sanchez (0-3).

Metro Manila, Philippines
The other Filipino show took places in Metro Manila and, like the other card featured a few interesting names.

The most well known of the fighters on this show was former world title challenger Ardin Diale (27-9-3, 14) who made very light work of Rommy Wassar (11-18-7, 5). Wassar, who missed weight by 6lbs, lasted just 30 seconds with Diale who made a genuine statement with the speed of this win.

Diale wasn't the only fighter to blow away an opponent in less a minute as the monstrously hard hitting Richard Claveras (12-0-2, 12) blasted away Demsi Manufoe (9-4, 6) in 37 seconds to retain the WBC Asian Boxing Coubncil Light Flyweight title. Hopefully we'll see Claveras step up again next time out.

Another excellent fighter to blow an over-matched foe on this show was the excellent Michael Dasmarinas (19-2, 12) who took care of Aroel Romasasa (11-8, 5) inside a minute courtesy of a body shot. Another man to score a win with a body show was Rene Dacquel (13-4-1, 5) who took 7 rounds to see off the light punching Menard Abila (5-3-4, 1).

One of the most competitive contests saw Eric Panza (7-3-1, 1) climb up from an opening round knockdown to take a split decision over Jeson Berwela (4-19, 2) in an 8 round bout. Another close 8 rounder saw Warren Mambuanag (7-5-2, 3) upset Aljhon Osabel (9-3, 5), also with an 8 round split decision.

The sole 6 rounder on this card saw the unbeaten Fighting Heno (3-0-3) level off his peculiar record as he over-came Rommel Berwela (2-3-2) with a clear decision.

In a bizzare debut, scheduled for 4 rounds, Jestoni Caballes (1-0, 1) was decked twice in the opening round before stopping Roberto Mendano (0-3) due to a cut in the second round. . In the other 4 rounder Brando Bokingkito (1-2, 1) claimed his first win with a 3rd round TKO against the win-less Kenneth Lacdang (0-3).

Chiapas, Mexico
In Mexico we saw a rematch between unheralded Filipino Jomar Farjardo (14-6-2, 7) and former unified Minimumweight champion Francisco Rodriguez Jr (17-2-1, 11). The two men, who fought to a draw last year, began as they finished their first fight, with a very competitive opening round. Sadly for Fajardo that was his only real success as Rodriguez finally figured him out and dominated the proceeding 9 rounds to take a very wide decision

New South Wales, Australia
In Australia fans saw a pair of Asian fighters though unfortunately both came up short.

The most disappointing of those was Erick Diaz Siregar (16-21-4, 4) of Indonesian. Siregar was brought in to be blown away and that's exactly what happened with Billel Dib (16-1, 7) stopping him inside a round. This was Siregar's third success blow out defeat and he is now without a win since September 2012 and has only one win since November 2010.

The other man who came up show was Filipino Rodynie Rafol (12-6-2, 5) who gave a good effort but was clearly second best to the unbeaten George Kamboso Jr (7-0, 3). Sadly for Rafol this loss ended a 2 fight winning run and he is now 0-3 in fights outside of his native Philippines.

This past Friday was an amazing day of boxing in Asia with a number of major cards through Asia and a lot of very notable bouts.

Tokyo, Japan
Although there was 3 notable cards today there was only 1 standout card, the Ohashi promoted "The Fight" card in Tokyo. The card not only had the best fights on it but also the best prospects.

The show, which had several televised bouts, began off TV with a number of bouts of varying levels. 

The least significant bout on the show saw Kazuki Sanpei (3-2, 1) score his first stoppage with a 2nd round TKO over fellow unknown novice Genji Ishida (1-4). The bout really was a preliminary bout but it was the only contest on the card that didn't excite us in one way or another.

The first of the 5 significant bouts on the show saw Takuma Inoue (3-0, 1) score his first stoppage as he beat Thai debutant Chanachai Sor Siamchai (0-1) in 2 rounds. The contest was by far the easiest of Takuma's young career though it was still an impressive performance by the 18 year old who is tipped to go a very long way in the sport. It's a shame this bout was such a huge step backwards from his last fight, an 8 round decision win over Fahlan Sakkreerin Jr, though it seems likely that Inoue will take a big step up in his next bout with a possible title fight looming.

Following Takuma Inoue's win fans then saw the highly touted Ryo Matsumoto (12-0, 10) blow away Thai veteran Denkaosan Kaovichit (63-5-1, 26). Kaovichit, a former Flyweight world champion and an interim world champion at Super Flyweight, was supposed to be a good test for Matsumoto though the touted Japanese fighter dropped the Thai in the opening round and then crumpled him in round 2 with a devastating body shot. After the fight it was strongly hinted that Matsumoto would be challenging for the Japanese Super Flyweight title currently held be fellow unbeaten prospect Sho Ishida.

The first televised bout, at least in Japan, was a Middleweight contest between Olympic champion Ryota Murata (5-0, 4) and Mexico's Adrian Luna Flores (17-3-1, 11). The bout saw Murata score a clear 10 round decision over his Mexican foe though look less than impressive with serious questions be asked about his stamina late in the contest. The Mexican looked ready to go in round 10 though Murata was out of gas and had to coast the final round. The official cards were all in favour of Murata, 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 though it's clear that he has a lot more work to do before stepping up to world level. After just 5 fights however no one will begrudge Murata more developmental fights.

Murata's bout was followed, at the venue and on Japanese TV, by the first of two world title fights. This contest saw Japanese star Naoya Inoue (7-0, 6) in action defending his WBC Light Flyweight title against Thailand's limited but tough Samartlek Kokietgym (17-5, 5). Inoue was in control through out the bout though he looked more flawed than he had in his previous 6 bouts. Fighting with the intention of putting on a show Inoue neglected his defensive duties more often than not as he loaded up with big shots, devastating combinations and some very eye catching offence. At the end of the day however it was a clear case of Inoue trying to entertain the fans and post-fight he admitted that it was a "garbage fight", an honest admission from a young fighter who is chasing genuine greatness. Whilst it was a poor bout it was Inoue's final one at 108lbs and he's now going to be moving to Flyweight where bouts against Juan Francisco Estrada and Amnat Ruenroeng were both mooted.

Another man who Inoue could fight is Roman Gonzalez (40-0, 34) who over-came Inoue's friend and stablemate Akira Yaegashi (20-4, 10) to claim the WBC Flyweight title in one of the best bouts of the year. The fight started slowly though quickly heated up with both Yaegashi and Gonzalez trading combinations through out the fight. Unfortunately for Yaegashi his warrior's mentality let him down in the end and he was eventually stopped after being dropped for the second time in the bout. Prior to the stoppage he had began to look exhausted and it was clear that he wasn't going to last the course against arguably the #1 offensive fighter in the sport. Unlike many fighters these two showed respect to each other before and after the bout knowing that the fight sold it's self on paper and didn't need hyping. In the ring both were warriors and both gave their all, though for Yaegashi he was simply up against a better warrior with bigger weapons.

Nonthaburi, Thailand
In Thailand fans got the chance to see a low profile show headlined by the very promising Teerachai Kratingdaenggym (27-0, 21) who retained his PABA Welterweight "super" title once again. Teerachai became the first fighter to stop Filipino Nelson Gulpe (8-3, 3) who has now lost 3 successive bouts though never has been bossed around as he was here. Sadly it's a shame that Teerachai still isn't stepping up when he has the potential to be so much more than he is showing. We understand there is a lack of Welterweights in the Orient though he needs to find someone better than Gulpe to fight next time out.

Another prospect ready to step up is Eaktawan Mor Krungthepthonburi (5-0, 4) who continued his winning run with an easy stoppage over Indonesian visitor Gaspar Ampolo (2-25-2, 1). Eaktawan didn't look great but didn't really struggle struggle. Like Naoya Inoue however it seemed that Eaktawan ignored his defensive responsiblities in the aim of entertaining fans.

A third bout on this show saw Inthanon Sithchamuang (23-7, 13) defeat the always game Indonesian journeyman Heri Amol (34-19-4, 14). Unfortunately for Amol this was his 5th straight loss and comes just a month after he was defeated by Japanese debutant Ken Shiro. 

Dubai
In Dubai fans saw the international debut of ALA who took their "Pinoy Pride" shows on the road for the first time and saw their trio of fighters all come back with victories.

The first of those Filipino's to notch up a victory was the popular Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista (36-3, 25) who took a 7th round technical decision over Juan Jose Martinez (19-2, 15). The fight was entertaining with both men loking for the knockout and although Bautista did score a knockdown in round 5 he was badly cut from a punch. The fight however came when the cut was worsened by a headclash that left the doctor with no decision but to take the fighters to the cards early where Bautista took a majority decision for the win.

One of the two co-features saw the unbeaten Arthur Villanueva (26-0, 14) claim the IBF International Super Flyweight title with a very narrow split decision win over the heavy handed Henry Maldonado (19-4, 14). The bout, refereed by British veteran Mickey Vann, saw an amazing second round which featured a knockdown against Villanueva though again saw many questioning Villanueava's world class potential. On the back of this fight and Villanueva's narrow win over Fernando Aguilar we're starting to think that he's either not as good as advertised or really struggling at Super Flyweight. Whatever it is, something is going to stop "King Arthur" from reaching the heady heights expected of him.

In the other co-feature we saw the ultra-talented Genesis Servania (25-0, 11) successfully retain WBO Inter-Continental Bantamweight title with a retirement victory over Jose Cabrera (22-5-2, 10). Cabrera had been dominated through out the early portion of the fight and had been dropped in round 2 and battered in rounds 3 and 4 though the bout swung in round 5 and Servania became hesitant after feeling the power of his Mexican foe. From round 8 the bout swung back in favour of the Filipino and Cabrera was eventually pulled between rounds 9 and 10 to give a relatively disappointing ending to the contest.

Prior to the bouts with the Filipino star trio there was a trio of under-card bouts. One of these saw another Filipino, Larry Abarra (3-2-1, 2), take a decision victory over Thailand's limited Chatpayak Sithkopon Nuengkawkawhok (2-8, 1). Another of the undercard bouts saw Dubai based Ugandan Deo Kizito (1-0) take a very narrow decision win over the previously unbeaten Anusher Abdullaev (4-1, 4). The remaining bout was a 1-sided beat down as Mohammad Akram (2-0-1, 1) dominated Thailand's Kong Windy Sports (1-6) to record a 2nd round victory.

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Another title fight took place in Burkina Faso as Filipino Silvester Lopez (22-8-2, 16) attempted to claim the WBC International Super Bantamweight title. Sadly for Lopez he suffered a wide loss to Alexis Boureima Kabore (23-1, 6). Lopez, now fighting way above the division that he first made his name, really is too small for Super Bantamweight and should be looking to move back down to Bantamweight, at the highest. Of course however he'll fight where opportunities arise.

Lombardia, Italy
In Italy fans saw the return to the ring of Japanese born European based Aniya Seki (25-3-2, 2) who took a decision over journey-woman Claudia Ferenci (8-36-5, 3). This was Seki's first bout following her stoppage loss to Judith Rodriguez a few months back and although Seki won here few will feel she will be a world champion before she calls it quits on a long career.

(Image courtesy of boxingnews.jp)