Just like that, Filipino boxer Aston “Mighty” Palicte is back in the title picture.
The 28-year old needed only two rounds to dispose of previously-undefeated Puerto Rican Jose Martinez, winning via TKO in their WBO Super Flyweight World Championship eliminator bout, Thursday evening at the Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California.
The Filipino former world title contender was dominant as he floored Martinez thrice in the second round to earn the quick finish.
Steve Angeles @StevieAngeles Replying to @StevieAngeles over!!!! 2nd round ko!!! Astin just gave Martinez his first loss.
Palicte, a native of Bago City, Negros, now earns the right to once again challenge for the WBO’s 115-pound title, currently held by a familiar foe in Donnie “Ahas” Nietes.
Palicte and Nietes battled for the vacant title back in September, with the bout ending in a controversial split draw.
Three months later, Niete would again fight for the vacant title, this time edging out Japan’s Kazuto Ioka via split decision to claim the title.
