While negotiations are still being finalized with GMA NEW TV Channel 11 for the airing of the two fights of IBO Jr. Bantamweight Champion Edrin “The Sting” Dapudong and South African Gideon Buthelezi, I am posting here one of the most difficult fights the new world champion had as he was rising up as a young fighter.
This fight was against the veteran Bert Batawang and this was for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Oriental Jr. Flyweight Title held in the Cebu City Coliseum in Cebu City four years ago, when Dapudong was only 22 years old.
Dapudong stopped Batawang in the 7th round but until today, I still consider that fight as one of the toughest ever taken by the champion from Barangay Pag-asa, M’lang, North Cotabato.
After this fight, Edrin went on to win the World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver Flyweight title in Tepic, Mexico City in 2010 and last June 15, he finally won the dreamed world boxing title with a 1st round knockout of Buthelezi in Johannesburg.
Hopefully, the two fights against Buthelezi – the 12 round bout which Dapudong lost by split decision and the sensation 1st round knockout in the rematch – will be aired within the next two weeks.
In the meantime, please watch this exciting and furious battle between the young Dapudong and the veteran Batawang.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSjDZS-obvg
June 21 2013
COURTESY CALL ON VICE PRESIDENT BINAY
Manila – International Boxing Organization (IBO) Junior Bantamweight champion Edrin “The Sting” Dapudong of M’lang, North Cotabato called on Vice President Jejomar Binay in the Coconut Palace today.
Dapudong was accompanied by ALA Boxing Promotions Vice President Dennis Canete and manager, former Governor Manny Pinol of North Cotabato, and journalists who covered the event.
Joining Dapudong in the call were Philippine Star sports columnist Quinito Henson, Ring Magazine correspondent Ryan Songalia and sports reporter Chino Trinidad.
Also present during the call was sportsman Hermie Esguerra, a close friend of Vice Presdient Binay who arranged the visit by the new world champion.
During the visit, Vice President Binay viewed the first round knockout scored by Dapudong over South African Gideon Buthelezi in Johannesburg last Saturday, June 15 to win the IBO World Boxing title.
Dapudong became the first world boxing champion from North Cotabato and the first product of a local government initiated grassroots boxing program to win a world title.
More Stories
Mlang Young Tennis Star Tenny Madis Rises In World Junior Rankings!
Future Champions!
Cotabato Kid Wins PBF Title By 3rd Round KO!