BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental? Dodie Boy Pe?alosa Jr., son of former world champion Dodie Boy Pe?alosa, will remain an amateur and join the national training pool.
The older Pe?alosa personally informed Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) president Ricky Vargas of the family?s decision at the Smart National Amateur Boxing Championship here.
?It?s okay. We?ve decided he will stay as an amateur,? the two-time former world champion and coach of the Cebu City boxing team, told Vargas after the NABC opening ceremony.
The 18-year-old two-time national champion is currently in Baguio training, and was offered by four-time world champion Manny Pacquiao a trip to the US, where the youngster would be trained and prepared for a professional debut later this year. Pacquiao has been a firm believer in the teenager?s talent.
?I told Dodie Boy Sr. to talk it over with Manny Pacquiao,? Vargas told The STAR. ?We will not interfere with his decision. But he?s only 18, so it might help him to get more training, represent the country, and may be win an Olympic medal. Then he would be worth a lot more as a pro. Besides, he may gain more by winning an Olympic gold medal than he would by turning pro too soon,? Vargas added, hinting at the incentives which will be announced at the ABAP congress to be held here before the finals on Thursday.
Last December, it was reported that the 112-pound Dodie Boy Jr. would turn pro, but it was postponed when his father decided to reconsider ABAP?s offer. ABAP is prepared to provide Pe?alosa with an education, and an allowance so that he may also help his family. The decision also coincides with ABAP?s move to establish regional training centers around the country, with Cebu as one of the first sites being considered.
?That would also keep him close to his father, so he would also get the benefit of being coached by his father, as well,? added ABAP secretary-general Patrick Gregorio.
