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Vicelles Decisions Espinas to capture WBA Asia Belt

By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 07 Jul 2019



LILOAN, Cebu ? In a very close, exciting clash, unbeaten Filipino Mark Vicelles (11-0, 5 KO's) of Cebu's Omega Boxing Gym edged more experienced compatriot Jesse Espinas (19-4, 11 KO's) via majority decision to claim the WBA ASIA SOUTH Light Flyweight title Saturday night (July 6) here in Liloan, Cebu 🇵🇭 Philippines ☀️

Vicelles was effective winning chapters in the battle's first half, landing good with his right jab, and sharp combinations while the tough, relentless Espinas dominated rounds in the second part.

The tenth and final round couldn't have been more close as the two men traded furiously till the last bell.

Vicelles's more efficient action during the final seconds of the last stanza, seemed to give him the round and secure him a razor-thin win by points.


Mark Vicelles (L) and Jesse Espinas keep the fight close throughout Saturday night's contest in Liloan, Cebu.

Despite several non-intentional headbutts due to the inverted guard of the combatants, nobody got cut, nobody visited the canvas, and no fouls were committed in a very competitive 10-rounder battle.

None of the warriors was at any moment staggered nor close to losing by stoppage. Even after exchanging heavy bombs, the two men were able to handle each other's power.


Team Espinas celebrates with GAB chairman Abraham Mitra (raising Espinas's hand).

The outstanding third man in charge was veteran international referee Tony Pesons.

Official scores were 96-94 (twice) and 95-95 for the winner by majority decision Mark Vicelles 💥💥

In attendance in Liloan, Cebu, witnessing the excellent war was GAB chairman Baham Mitra, international referee Bruce McTavish, GAB Commisioner Mar Masanguid, GAB Cebu Office head Arlene Olondriz, I.P.I. executive Pio Paulo Castillo, Omega Gym Vice Prez Jerome Calatrava, and unbeaten world-ranked light flyweight contender Christian Araneta (who will fight an IBF world title eliminator by the end of next month).

GAB physician was Dr. Jose Unabia. GAB Timekeeper was Rowel Mendoza, Ring announcer Sandy Grumo.


Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.

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