Cerna Upsets Bantigue to Capture WBO Oriental Flyweight Belt

In a fight that left the crowd at the edge of their seats, underdog Jeffrey Cerna (W10(4)-L3(1)-D0) scored an upset by dominating the more experienced Louie Bantigue (W21(12)-L14(5)-D7). Both warriors exchanged knockdowns in the later rounds but two valid knockdowns scored by Cerna were not scored by the referee. Cerna appeared to be the stronger fighter but Bantigue had the better speed. It was power and stamina versus speed but in the end, Cerna appeared to have the better conditioning and took home most of the rounds. After the final bell, the judges came out with a split decision verdict in favor of the new WBO Oriental Flyweight Champion, Jeffrey Cerna.

In a non-title flyweight match, Bobby Concepcion escaped a controversial draw versus Ronnie Rex Dalot. It was Dalot who dominated but the fight turned ugly with several low blows from both corners. Another fight ended in a technical draw after Jethro Pabustan of Touch Gloves Stable suffered a nasty cut from an accidental clash of heads against Rodel Quilaton.

In the other bouts, Nino Valenzuela won via Majority Decision versus Dodoy Alapormina. Rennel Flechero stopped Mabert Paulino via retirement. Karlo Maguinto outpointed Edwin Mondala and won via Unanimous Decision. Macre Gandiongco knocked out Mardi Zulita in the fourth and final round. In the opening match, Carlean Rivas won her debut fight via UD against Honey Mae Bermoy.

The fight was brought to us by Arci Promotions and GMA7. The event will be televised on Sunday via GMA News TV Channel 11.

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