The undefeated Merlito ‘Tiger’ Sabillo made a successful first defense of his WBO minimumweight world title against Jorle Estrada of Colombia on Saturday, July 13 at the main event of Pinoy Pride XXI at the Solaire Resort and Casino.
The fight of Bacolod-based Sabillo was the first for the Filipino champion in Manila although he already fought in smaller weight cl(–foul word(s) removed–), the “Tiger” Sabillo is quickly becoming one of the Philippines’ brightest boxing stars. He is currently undefeated with an impressive record of 23-0, 12 KO, who grew from a street fighter into a world-renowned boxer.
Photo Credit: ABS-CBNNews.com
Sabillo stalked his opponent who spent the early rounds using the ring to get away from the southpaw’s power left punches, the Bacolodnon shifted his attack to the body of Estrada starting from the fourth quarter onwards.
During the 9th round of the game, Sabillo landed an uppercut to the liver that sent Estrada down grimacing in pain, international referee Raul Caiz Jr., reached the ten count at 1:09 in the 9th quarter and declared a KO win by Sabillo over Estrada.
The 29-year-old Merlito Sabillo has already made a habit of dispatching top-notch Colombian fighters, he captured the interim WBO Minimumweight title against Luis de la Rosa last March and right now he succeeded for his first title defense against Colombian fighter, Jorle Estrada. Sabillo turned pro during the year 2008 at the age of 24 ending his career as a street fighter in the Plaza of Bacolod City but commenced on fighting at bigger stage.
