Dapudong kayoes SA fighter, bags IBO title

REFEREE Robert Byrd raises the hand of Edrin Dapudong as IBO commissioner Charles Payne holds the champion’s belt. Philboxing.com

Filipino Edrin Dapudong got his vindication Saturday night by knocking out South African champion Gideon Buthelezi in the first round to capture the International Boxing Organization junior bantam-weight title at Emperor’s Palace Resort and Casino in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Former North Cotabato Gov. Manny Piñol, who was at ringside, said his ward hurt Buthelezi with a solid right to the midsection. And as the South African lowered his guard, Dapudong unleashed a left hook to the jaw that sent Buthelezi down for good 2 minutes and 30 seconds into their return bout.

American referee Robert Byrd counted out Buthelezi as the 27-year-old Dapudong celebrated his feat as the first world boxing champion from North Cotabato and of the Braveheart Boxing Club, which is owned by the Piñol Brothers.

Dapudong exacted revenge on Buthelezi, who beat him by split decision on Nov. 10, 2012, despite dominating the South African and knocking him down in the ninth round.

It was Dapudong’s 28th win, 17 by knockout, against five losses. Buthelezi fell to 13-4 with four KOs. Roy Luarca