John Riel Casimero celebrates after stopping American Saul Sanchez in their super bantamweight fight in Yokohama, Japan.–Photo from Treasure Boxing Promotions
MANILA, Philippines–Former three-division champion John Riel Casimero had a triumphant ring return on Sunday.
But even with an opening-round stoppage against American Saul Sanchez in his first bout after a year that showcased his undeniable skill and punching power in the ring, Casimero’s direction and future remained unclear due to his reputation and knack for missing weights.
READ: Casimero banned in Japan for a year after failing to make weight
The super bantamweight fight against Sanchez (21-4, 12KOs), a former title contender, pushed through despite Casimero (34-4-1, 23KOs) failing to make weight again.
Casimero has been on a wild rollercoaster ride since he beat Guillermo Rigondeaux by split decision to retain the WBO bantamweight title in August 2021. He has fought just four times since then.
The Merida, Leyte native was supposed to defend his crown against Paul Butler in England but was stripped of his belt after he broke strict medical policy by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBoC) for using a sauna to cut down weight before a fight.
READ: John Riel Casimero’s bid to fight Naoya Inoue hits snag
Casimero was given a golden opportunity to turn over a new leaf after being signed by Japanese startup Treasure Boxing Promotions reportedly to a four-fight deal in February last year.
His first two bouts were promising–ending in a second-round knockout of Ryo Akaho and a unanimous decision victory over Namibian Filipus Nghitumbwa. The third, however, was a disappointment after Casimero settled for a technical draw against fellow former world champion Yukinori Onguni following an accidental clash of heads in the fourth round.
‘Monster’ hunter
If Casimero will have his way, he certainly wants a crack at Japanese superstar Naoya “Monster” Inoue next.
The two were scheduled for a unification showdown in April 2020 but the clash was scrapped due to the pandemic.
Casimero, however, has remained vocal about fighting Inoue and even claiming that he’s the only one who can stop the pound-for-pound king.
READ: John Riel Casimero wins homecoming bout, continues Naoya Inoue chase
But wanting it is one thing and making it work for both camps is an entirely different story.
The 35-year-old Casimero is currently ranked No. 6 by the WBO and No. 7 by the WBC in the super bantamweight class ruled by Inoue, who became the undisputed champion at 122 pounds after knocking out Filipino Marlon Tapales last December.
Just last month, Inoue successfully defended his titles after a seventh-round TKO of TJ Doheny.