Cuarto and Shigeoka All Set to Battle for IBF 105 Interim Belt in Japan Today (Photos)
By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 16 Apr 2023
Filipino 105-pound warrior Rene Mark Cuarto and unbeaten Japanese combatant Ginjiro Shigeoka (8-0, 6 KO's), successfully made weight ahead of their hot battle for the vacant IBF Interim Minimumweight Crown Sunday, April 16, in Tokyo, Japan.
Looking strong and confident, the Filipino team stood on stage with Filipino Flag, ready to wage war, more than willing to bring the important belt to their beloved Pinoyland.
At all times, the friendly, but tough Cuarto will be guided by the wisdom of much-appreciated veteran coach Nonoy Neri, a man who for years assisted Filipino boxing king Manny Pacquiao in so many of his legendary, historic battles.
The huge experience and remarkable knowledge of coach Neri will without doubt be an awesome advantage for the young Cuarto, a man with determination and dreams of glory.
Meanwhile, owning an impeccable 6-pack abs, the young and powerful Japanese fighter Shigeoka - born in Kumamoto on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan - looked intense, serious and focused ahead of one of the most important battles of his life.
Present during the important ceremony was GAB Chairman Richard Clarin, the man of laws leading Filipino boxing to brighter horizons.
Filipino Richard Clarin, Chairman of the GAB, on the right, Stands on Stage in Japan Besides veteran American Ring Official Frank Garza.
Also, In attendance during the important ceremony were Ben Keilty of Australia, and MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons of Las Vegas, U.S.A.
Will the surely more-experienced Cuarto (21-3-2, 12 KO"s), defeat the dangerous southpaw Ginjiro Shigeoka in his own home land of Japan to reign as champ again?
Beloved Coach Nonoy Neri during weigh in today in Tokyo. His wisdom is a huge advantage for Cuarto in his World Title Battle.
Notably, the Pinoy warrior feels inspired by the recent success in Japan of his Filipino compatriot Melvin Jerusalem (20-2, 12 KO's), who earlier this year traveled to Japan to knock out and dethrone then champ Masataka Taniguchi (16-4, 11 KO's).
But could Cuarto really score another fantastic win too, as Filipino boxing fans so much wish?
Or will the hard-hitting undefeated 23-year-old Nippon fighter punish and conquer with devastating attacks the brave Pinoy fighter from beautiful Zamboanga del Norte in southern Philippines?
The exciting world title double-header card is promoted by former 3-time champ Koki Kameda. It will be live in Japan on ABEMA TV. May the Best Man Win!
The author, veteran boxing writer Carlos Costa, can be reached at carlos@philboxing.com and whatsapp/viber +639184538152
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.
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