MANILA, Philippines—Despite his terrifying post-fight experience recently, newly crowned International Boxing Federation interim junior flyweight champion Johnriel Casimero is willing to do battle in Argentina again.
But not in Mar del Plata, where he, trainer Christopher Tepura and promoter Sammy Gello-ani got hurt and nearly lynched by supporters of Argentine Luis Albarte Lazarte, whom he stopped in the 10th round of their title bout.
“It’s okay for me to fight in Argentina, but I won’t ever step in Mar del Plata ever again,” Casimero told Philboxing and the Cebu media at the Baseline Restaurant on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old Casimero received a hero’s welcome at the Mactan International Airport when he arrived and was treated to a motorcade that traversed the Queen City of the South and the cities of Lapu-lapu and Mandaue, where he’s now based.
Though they sustained cuts and bruises, Casimero, Gello-Ani and Tepura said they don’t intend to file lawsuits against their attackers, majority of whom were Lazarte’s fellow trucking union members.
As an aftermath of the incident, which was caught on tape and drew worldwide indignation, the Games and Amusements Board sent a letter to the Argentine Boxing Commission requesting an investigation.
Malacanang also stepped into the act and filed a diplomatic protest to the Argentine embassy in Manila.
Gello-Ani also expressed willingness to bring Casimero again in Argentina, against a different foe and at a different venue.
A fight with Ulises Solis is being arranged and the former champion has until Oct. 31 to agree to a bout, otherwise the Casimero will be declared champion.