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.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Simsri Crushes Mendoza, Retains IBF 108-lbs Title; Could A Filipino Challenger Fight Simsri Next? (Analysis)
By Carlos Costa, Tue, 14 Apr 2026Manny Pacquiao and Jas Mathur via Manny Pacquiao Promotions Announce Nine-Figure Team Boxing League Partnership, Launching Manny Pacquiao’s San Diego TJ’s Franchise
Tue, 14 Apr 2026Pabular loses by a split decision
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 14 Apr 2026DFBC dominates in Invitational Doubles
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 14 Apr 2026Santisima Faces Undefeated Grigoryan for IBF Asia Title in Russia
Tue, 14 Apr 2026Jenn Perella excited to be fighting in front of family & friends on ‘Rumble at the Rink II’
Tue, 14 Apr 2026Angel Barrientes Training Camp Notes
Mon, 13 Apr 2026DFBC sweeps Dubai Filipino bowlfest
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 13 Apr 2026Middleweight Contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. Dominates Omar Huerta in Main Event at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City & Live on ProBoxTV
Mon, 13 Apr 2026Sergio Martinez returns with a victory at 51
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Mon, 13 Apr 2026Team USA Secures Three Gold Medals on Final Day of 2026 Gee Bee Boxing Tournament
Mon, 13 Apr 2026Rosales to fight Obedencio in RFL co-main event
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 13 Apr 2026Quiñonero to fight Cadalso in Juego Todo Pro
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 13 Apr 2026Miel Fajardo Unleashes Thrilling Fury: Filipino Slugger Blasts Reyes in IBF Flyweight Eliminator in Argentina
By Carlos Costa, Sun, 12 Apr 2026IBA NOMAD 14 delivers spectacular night of combat sports in Almaty
Sun, 12 Apr 2026