The memory of the late promising boxer Karlo Maquinto will be remembered in the coming fight promotion Kamao: Kidlat at Maso.
Unbeaten Froilan ?The Sniper? Saludar takes on Mexican Jose Alfredo Tirado in the main bout of the Sept. 21 ring card at the Astrodome, promoted by the Shape Up boxing gym, the Baguio-based boxing stable, where Maquinto belonged prior to his untimely death last February.
The 21-year-old Maquinto collapsed after his last fight against Marc Joseph Costa last Jan. 28 in Kalookan City after suffering from what doctors called as ?subdural hematoma.? He fell into a coma and died five days later. A native of Lambunao, Iloilo, Maquinto had a record of 8-0, with 6 KOs.
?Karlo is well known in Baguio, mahal na mahal siya ng mga tao doon. Kaya this is our way of paying homage to him and fighters just like him, whose careers were snuffed out too soon,? said Shape Up boxing gym owner Anson Co Tiu, who became emotional as he remembered the fallen boxer, who used to be close to him during Maquinto?s stay in the country?s Summer Capital.
Tiu was at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum Tuesday at Shakey?s Malate, joined by Saludar, Mark Jason Melligen, Jerwin Ancajas, Joven Jimenez, promoter Sammy Gello-ani, and Games Amusements Board chairman Juan Ramon Guanzon, and boxing division chief Dr. Nasser Cruz.
World Boxing Organization executive Leon Panoncillo also attended the public sports program presented by Smart, the Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation, and Shakey?s, as the WBO Interim Oriental flyweight title will be at stake in the 12-round fight.
Saludar, holder of 15-0 record with 11 KOs, vows to beat Tirado (27-11, 19 KOs) in honor of Maquinto.
