Astrolabio set for WBC bantamweight title challenge vs Nakatani

Vincent Astrolabio during the weigh-in for his WBC bantamweight title against Junto Nakatani. –WENDELL ALINEA

MANILA, Philippines—It’s all engines go for Filipino boxer Vincent Astrolabio as he challenges Junto Nakatani for the WBC bantamweight title on Saturday in Tokyo, Japan.

Astrolabio made weight on Friday, tipping the scales at 117.5 pounds with Nakatani coming in at 117.25 pounds.

Astrolabio faces a tall order as he challenges Nakatani for the strap. The Japanese fighter remains undefeated with an impressive record of 27-0 with 20 knockouts to his name.

The Filipino boxer, meanwhile, looks to finally take home a belt after losing his first title shot to Jason Moloney via majority decision last year.

“We are in good condition, and we have prepared for this. We didn’t come here to lose. We’ve done all our training, and we will bring the belt home to the Philippines,” said Astrolabio’s trainer Nonoy Neri during the pre-fight press conference.

Astrolabio punched his ticket for a date with Nakatani when he defeated Navapon Khaikanha last year via TKO.

Astrolabio and Nakatani clash in the 12-round main event on Saturday at Ryogoku Kokugikan.