Philboxing.com
MANILA, Philippines—Former WBA interim super flyweight titleholder Drian “Golden Fists” Francisco boxed himself back on track for another shot at international stardom after frustrating veteran Michael “Bruce Lee” Domingo of the ALA Promotion via unanimous decision Friday night at the Makati Coliseum.
Francisco fought wisely as he tried hard but failed to crack open Domingo’s crab-like defense in the bout which headlined the Pinoy Warriors’ card put up by Saved by the Bell Promotion and Solar Sports.
The 28-year-old stalwart of Touch Gloves Boxing Gym in Agoncillo, Batangas, gained the nods of the three judges as he threw accurate punches while staying away from trouble whenever the 32-year-old Domingo launched sporadic attacks.
“I didn’t fall into Domingo’s trap. Our tactics worked to perfection. I don’t want to be careless, ”said Francisco, who improved his record to 21-1-0, including 16 KOs. Domingo dropped to 42-16-3, including 23 KOs.
ALA vice-president Dennis Cañete gamely accepted Domingo’s loss.
“Michael threw less punches. There was no doubt that Drian won the bout.”
SBB president and Francisco’s manager Elmer Anuran said the win is crucial for the pride of Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.
Francisco came to the fight determined to bounce back after losing his WBA interim crown to Thai Tepparith Singwancha last May in Udon Thani, Thailand.
“This win is huge for Drian. His dream of becoming world champion is alive,” said Anuran, who said that he will start negotiations for Francisco to fight internationally before the end of the year.
In the main supporting bout, super featherweight Robert Gonzales survived hard-fighting Balweg Bangoyan as he won by split decision.
Featherweight Jun Doliguez won by TKO in the 4th round over Sonny Gonzales, while super bantamweight Nino Magboo knocked out Rene Bestudio in the 8th round.
Pinoy Warriors will be aired September 25 on AKTV (1-3 p.m.) and Solar Sports
(3-5 p.m.).