CHATCHAI SASAKUL, the Thai boxer who knocked out Angelito Sisnorio Jr. last Friday in Bangkok, is in shock after learning of the death of the Filipino.
According to the Bangkok Post, Sasakul as well as WBC flyweight champion Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, who defeated the Filipino in a warm-up fight last January via TKO in the third round, expressed their grief on the demise of Sisnorio.
“I can’t express in words my sadness,” a stunned Chatchai told the Bangkok Post. ” I didn’t sleep on Saturday night worrying about him and I may not be able to sleep or eat properly for a long time to come.”
The 25-year-old Sisnorio from Kidapawan City died at the Piyamin Hospital late Saturday night after being knocked out the previous evening in the fourth round by Sasakul.
Sisnorio fell ill while on his way to dinner and was rushed to the hospital where he underwent brain surgery but died the following night.
Chatchai said he would never forget his opponent.
“I am sure I will always see Lito every time I go into the ring,” he said tearfully.
Pongsaklek was equally upset.
“I am shocked and saddened by his death. He fought very hard with counterpunches and we had a great fight in Mae Sot,” he said.
Piyarat Vachiraratanawong, promoter of the card at Mathayom Wat Singh School at Chom Thong, Bangkok where Sisnorio fought, said that all boxers who took part in the program have been insured, the Thai newspaper Bangkok Post reported yesterday. He did not say the amount of the insurance.
The Post added that Sisnorio’s body is now at Memorial Hospital where it will remain until relatives can be contacted.
“We will get in touch with his nearest relative and ensure they are compensated. Lito fought in our program and it is our duty to look after his interests,” the Bangkok Post quoted Piyarat.
Piyarat said that Sisnorio was popular among the Thai boxers and they were shocked when they heard the news of his death.
“He was a cheerful character and a good personality. Boxing will miss him. It’s a really tragic incident,” said Piyarat.
