Sports
Pinoy boxer makes grand debut, KOs Mexican pug
DAVAO CITY — Filipino prospect Reymart “Gensan Assassin” Gaballo made a smashing debut in the United States by knocking out Mexican Ernesto Guerrero on Thursday at the Hawaii Events Center in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Gaballo twice downed Guerrero in Round 2 for the knockout victory to remain unbeaten with 17 straight wins and 15 knockouts. Gaballo landed a solid left hook for the first knockdown.
Guerrero managed to stand up, but was finally knocked down by a powerful uppercut on the body by Gaballo.
“I am very happy to win my USA debut. I will continue to work hard to reach my dream as a world champion,” said the 21-year-old Gaballo.
“Gaballo was very impressive tonight. With more experience and training, I’m very confident that he will be a world champion soon,” said Jim Claude “JC” Manangquil, chief executive officer of Sanman Promotions.
Gaballo’s manager John Ray “JR” Manangquil was also at the corner to give his full support together with Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Commissioner Ed Trinidad.
The Gaballo-Guerrero 10-rounder was the main event of the “Fight Night at the Island” boxing card promoted by international Filipino boxing promoter-manager Gabriel “Bebot” Elorde Jr., son of the late legendary great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.
Gaballo is the third boxer of Sanman to successfully make his US debut. The first two fighters were Harmonito “Hammer” dela Torre and Romero “Ruthless” Duno.
(Lito delos Reyes/PNA)