TWO unbeaten Filipino prospects will be trying to carve a name for themselves as they display their talents next month in the biggest boxing event this year.
Two hometown heroes Arthur Villanueva and Merlito Sabillo are relatively unknown boxers to the public but they will have a chance to establish a name for themselves as they will be in the biggest fights of their careers in the ?Pinoy Pride 9? boxing extravaganza at the University of St. La Salle Gym in Bacolod City.
?It would mean a lot (for them) as not only will they have the chance to be part of a huge event but the historical world-title event will be done in their city,? ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer told Sun.Star Cebu yesterday.
The 22-year-old Villanueva is facing African Shaaban Madilu in his first fight against a foreign opponent.
?I think he (Villanueva) is ready after going undefeated for 17 fights, and it is also the first time for him to be seen on national and international TV. As what I always say, the only way to know the true potential of a fighter is to give them a real test,? said Aldeguer.
Villanueva is impressive with a 17-0 record with 12 knockouts, but he has only faced local fighters. Malidu is 12-6-3 with six knockouts and has won his last five fights.
On the other hand, Sabillo, 27, is gunning for the vacant Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation minimumweight crown against journeyman Rodel Tejares, which could jumpstart his career internationally.
?Sabillo has the potential because of his heart. He needs to win the OPBF and that would open the doors for him,? said the promoter.
