FRANCISCO, ALA BOYS TAKE METRO MANILA BY STORM
By Rene Bonsubre, Jr.
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 04 Oct 2009
Unbeaten Drian Francisco took the vacant WBA International superflyweight title with a tenth-round TKO over Panama's Roberto Vasquez at the Cuneta Astrodome. It was a golden breakthrough performance for the Filipino known as “Gintong Kamao” and a one-sided contest from the start. Francisco was the stronger puncher and landed punches from different angles. There were even moments where Francisco was showboating. Vasquez’s corner had to rescue him from more punishment in the 10th as Francisco was landing punches at will.
The 26 year old Vasquez, whose ring monicker “La Arana” means the Spider, is an eight year pro who previously held the WBA light flyweight and interim flyweight world titles. The win improved Francisco's undefeated streak to 18-0-1, 14 KO's.
ALA fighter Michael Domingo and Milan Melindo scored impressive wins in the undercard. Domingo beat former US Olympian Jose Navarro by TKO in the 8th round, making him the first man to stop the four-time world title challenger. Domingo’s defense was solid, showing his opponent only the top of his head. The southpaw Navarro was eating right hands from Domingo all night and cuts were inflicted on the left side of his face. Navarro then had a huge hematoma forming above his left eyelid. The ring physician was called in between the seventh and eighth round. With the stoppage win, Domingo should go up the rankings and be in line for bigger fights and a possible bantamweight title shot.
The undefeated Milan Milendo once again showcased his world-class quality with a unanimous decision victory over tough Mexican Guadalupe Martinez. It was an exciting toe to toe battle. Melindo ( 19-0, 5 KO’s) opened a cut on Martinez’ forehead in the fifth. But with blood flowing on his face, Martinez attacked like a man possessed. But Melindo once again gave a clinic in precision boxing. Milan landed accurate punches to the body and head and effectively contained the Mexican’s aggression.
The scorecards read: 97-93, 97-93 and 96-94. Melindo is another future world titlist. He is highly ranked minimumweight in all organizations including the prestigious Ring magazine.
Another Filipino Al Sabaupan also defeated Josaphat Perez of Mexico by unanimous decision in a lightweight bout. The scores: 98-92, 96-94,97-93.
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