Payao outlasts Yu to retain Phl title

Jared ‘Iron Chin’ Payao of the Omega Boxing Gym grinded through a close unanimous decision victory over Raul 'Vulcan' Yu of the ALA Boxing Gym to retain his Philippine bantamweight title in the main event of "Who’s Next? 5:Pro Boxing Series" the other night at the Mandaue City Sports and Cultural Complex.

Payao found Yu a tough customer to handle for most of their 10-round battle, but proved to be the more technical fighter as he outgunned his challenger and eventually earned the nod of the three judges.

The official scores were 96-93, 95-95 and 9693 all for Payao who now holds an improved 16-1 win-loss record spiked with 10KOs. Yu, for his part, suffered his third loss in 12 professional fights.

Aside from successfully defending his crown for the second time, the win also boosted Payao’s stock as he guns for a regional title next year.

“Hopefully this win will open big opportunities for me because I will always be ready to fight for a regional title," said Payao. "I am ready for more challenge. I also want to face a foreign opponent next."

Payao’s buddies from Omega Gym also hurdled their respective assignments.

Jason Canoy won by unanimous verdict over Renerio Arizala, Kenny Demecillo outscored Gerpaul Valero, Tom June Mangubat destroyed Crisanto Contemprato in the first round, Mark Vicelles battered Rey Tagulaylay, Marjun Piencaves stopped Johnrey Espinosa and Elias Joaquino dominated Ryan Bongcawil. —

Maglinte

Lemuel P.