Erick Rosa Dethrones Vic Saludar, Becomes New WBA-105 World Champion
By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 22 Dec 2021
In a close and thrilling battle, Filipino “Vicious” Vic Saludar (21-5, 11 KO’s) of Polomolok, Cotabato del Sur, was dropped, decisioned and dethroned by young Dominican Republic fighter “Mini Pacman” Erick Rosa (5-0, 1 KO), tonight at Hotel Catalonia Malecon Center in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
The intense war saw the brave Vic Saludar crashing to the canvas in rounds 3 and 9. But then, the Pinoy awesomely got up to deck Rosa down in round 10, scaring the heck out of him in that chapter; both men then exchanging artillery till the sound of the final bell.
In the end, scores were split.
Experienced Venezuela lady judge Mrs. Reina Urbáez scored in favor of the Filipino 113-112.
But she was overruled. Because local Dominican Republic judge Óscar Pérez Carbonelli saw the fight completely different; voting 116-109 for his compatriot Erick Rosa; with the third judge Luis Pabón of Puerto Rico scoring for Rosa as well 113-112.
Will an exciting rematch happen?
“Vicious” Vic Saludar could not teach a boxing lesson to the skilled 21-year-old rookie fighter from the fun paradise Iand of beaches and merengue, the Dominican Republic, as boxing fans in Mindanao were all hoping for.
Yes, for many fans (including me), Saludar’s proven boxing talent and superior experience should have led him to retain his WBA 105-lbs world title. Unfortunately, that was not the case.
Instead, the quick and tough “Mini Pacman” Rosa surprised and shocked the slightly taller battle-tested Vic Saludar, grabbing his coveted black ‘n golden world title strap.
The unexpected defeat adds some sadness to fans as Vic’s brother, Froilan, was as well outpointed in an important title fight just hours apart in Sydney Australia.
Still, Vic Saludar and Froilan Saludar can, in their hearts, feel proud of their big efforts, ending their televised international main event fights on their feet, battling with honor and heart, giving a thrilling show to local fans, setting themselves up for more rewarding action in the new year.
Most importantly, the Saludar brothers are fine, healthy and on their way home to spend a very Merry Christmas with family at home, in home sweet home, the Philippines.
The author Carlos Costa can be reached at carlos@philboxing.com
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.
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