Kenneth Llover, right, tags James Pagaling
MANILA, Philippines-Kenneth Llover showed why he has the potential to become the next Filipino boxing star after knocking out James Pagaling in the main event of Manny Pacquiao Presents: Blow-by-Blow on Saturday at San Juan Gym.
Llover put Pagaling to sleep with a well-timed left to the jaw in the fourth round and claimed the Philippine Youth bantamweight crown.
The ending was reminiscent of Manny Pacquiao’s epic second-round demolition of Ricky Hatton more than 14 years ago in Las Vegas.
Paramedics immediately attended to Pagaling, who was brought to the hospital as a precautionary measure.
“It seems that we are discovering new talent after seeing Llover’s impressive win,” said Pacquiao.
Llover hiked his record to 10-0 with seven knockouts while Pagaling lost for the first time after an 8-0 start to his pro career.
The 20-year-old Llover, who is representing Penalosa Boxing Gym of Libis, Quezon City, is being groomed for bigger things down the road.
“Boss Manny (Pacquiao) has grand plans for this kid,” former world flyweight title challenger Jonathan Penalosa said.
Blow-by-Blow heads to Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, on August 5.