Dave Apolinario Knockout Thai Opponent After He Comes Back from Being Knockdown
Filipino boxer Dave “The Doberman” Apolinario beats Thai opponent after he comes back from being knockdown on third round.
In last night’s bout at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan, Filipino former IBO Flyweight World Champion Dave Apolinario faced off against Thailand’s Tanes Ongjunta, raises concerns among Filipino boxing fans. This after being knocked down in the third round by a well-timed right from Ongjunta, sending him to the canvas.
Hailing from General Santos City, Philippines, Apolinario demonstrated resilience, quickly getting back on his feet to continue the match against his Thai opponent. Both fighters engaged in intense exchanges, with Ongjunta pressing forward in the center of the ring.
A clash of heads occurred before the round concluded, resulting in a deep cut on Ongjunta’s left eyebrow. Capitalizing on his opponent’s apparent fatigue, Apolinario (20-0, 14 knockouts) landed a decisive straight left, knocking Ongjunta down.
Although Ongjunta (12-2, 6 KOs) managed to beat the count, Apolinario, living up to his moniker “Dobermann,” seized the opportunity, unleashing a barrage of power shots that culminated in a final right uppercut, prompting referee Yuki Fukuchi to stop the bout at the 1:44 mark of the scheduled 8-round bout.
This victory positions Apolinario, the top-rated WBA contender at 112 pounds, for a shot at the WBA 112-pound title, currently held by Seigo Yuri Akui. Aged 25, Apolinario is co-promoted by Sanman Promotions and Ohashi Promotions.
Head of Sanman Boxing, JC Manangquil, stated that arrangements will be made for Apolinario to compete in a world title fight under any of boxing’s major sanctioning bodies this year. According to Mike Pelayo, Apolinario’s co-manager, this was the first time the former IBO flyweight champion suffered a knockdown in his career.
Apolinario admitted feeling shaken but remained focused, knowing that a world title shot was at stake, based on the report. “Iniisip ko mahaba pa yung laban, puwede pang bumawi,” said Apolinario of his first ever career knockdown. “Dapat pag bumagsak, kung kayang tumayo, tumayo pa.”
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