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Philippines, 16 Feb 2026 |
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MAYOR LIM VOWS TO PRODUCE 2 WORLD BOXING CHAMPS FROM BOHOL IN TWO YEARS By Emmanuel B. Villaruel PhilBoxing.com Wed, 15 Aug 2007  In the wake of Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista's failed world title bid, Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Neri Lim called on his 'paisanos' not to get discouraged, assuring the Boholanos that he will produce two world boxing champions from Bohol in the next two years. "I'm very sorry that we failed to get the crown we aspire for. We might be disappointed, but we don't have to be discouraged," said Mayor Lim. "I can guarantee one or two Boholano boxing champions in the next two years." The Filipinos were expecting a coronation of another world champion, but their hopes have gone down when Bautista did not even last one round against WBO super bantamweight titlist Daniel Ponce de Leon in last Sunday's World Cup at the Arco Arena in Sacramento, California. But Mayor Lim said Bautista's defeat should not be cause of disappointment for the Filipinos. "There's nothing to worry about. We don't have to be disappointed because in any event, there's always a winner and there's a loser. What is essential is that Boom Boom should charge it to experience. It is a lesson learned for him to prepare for his success because he is up against the best of the world in his division," said Mayor Lim. Mayor Lim also refuted claims by some quarters that it is too early for Bautista to be ranged against a tough champion of De Leon's caliber because the 21-year-old Boholano still lacks experience and ring maturity. "There are some quarters who said Boom Boom is still young to fight for a world championship but we are obliged to fight because he is the number one contender unless we are going to back out," said Lim. "It's already an opportunity and we feel Bautista has a good chance. The result is immaterial. What is important is that he was given a break only that it's not yet his time." Lim said he understood Bautista is so disappointed of himself for failing to live up to the expectations of his countrymen that is why he kept on lifting up the spirits of his ward by giving him enlightening words and keeping him company for most of the time. "I really understand his predicament at this point of time. That is why I cancelled all my appointments and other scheduled meetings here (in the US) just to be with him most of the time. Life must go on for Bautista and there is still no doubt in my mind he will be a world champion someday," said Lim. Top photo caption: Mayor Dan Neri Lim of Tagbilaran City speaks to the media during the post-fight presscon of the World Cup at the Arco Arena in Sacramento, CA. To his right is Oscar de la Hoya of Golden Boy Promotions. Photo by Dong Secuya. Click here to view a list of other articles written by Emmanuel B. Villaruel.  |
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