Jonathan Taconing (23-3-1, 19KO) claimed the vacant WBC International Light Flyweight belt via tenth round TKO victory over Salatiel Amit (9-2-2) in the main event of Johnny Elorde Management International’s “Boxing Kontra Droga” card at the Elorde Gym in Parañaque City, Saturday evening.
Returning to the ring for the first time since his loss to Ganigan Lopez of Mexico four months ago, Taconing was aggressive all throughout the bout. He dominated Amit in most of their exchanges and pounced on his younger opponent in every clinch.
Amit, a prospect from the Omega Boxing Stable in Cebu, tried his best to make a stand against the former world title challenger, but Taconing’s power took a toll on his body in the waning seconds of the final round. He got caught with a 1-2 punch combination that was followed up by three more punches that sent him out of the ring, forcing the referee to end the fight.
The official time was 0:39 of the tenth round.
According to Taconing, the victory is a big confidence booster for him after his disappointing performance in Mexico.
“Malaking tulong ito sa akin kasi natalo ako sa Mexico. Medyo papa-angat ulit tayo (ng kumpyansa) para makalaban ulit ng world title,” the new WBC International champion told Tiebreaker Times.
“Ang pagkakaiba ko dun kasi hindi ako magalaw doon. Dito pinag-aralan ko yung movement at para hindi ako masyadong matamaan.”
Asked what’s next for him, the 29-year-old pugilist also revealed that he is considering a move to flyweight. But at the same time, he is hoping to get another crack at the 108-pound world title in the future.
“Kung mabigyan ulit ako ng pagkakataon sa world title, tutuloy ko padin. Kasi medyo hirap na din ako sa timbang e,” he said. “Sapilitan na to ngayon eh, pilit-pilit na talaga.”
In the undercard, Jay Loto came out on top against Powell Balaba, winning via unanimous decision. Jeffrey Francisco also out-pointed Lloyd Jardeliza, while the bout between Rene Patillano and JC Francisco ended in a technical draw after the latter sustained a deep cut in the second round from an accidental headbutt.
Boxing Kontra Droga 2016
November 19, 2016 – Elorde Gym, Paranaque City
Jonathan Taconing def. Salatiel Amit (TKO, 10th)
Jay Loto def. Powell Balaba (UD)
Rene Patillano and JC Francisco ended in a draw
Glenn Medura def. Noel Adelmita (TKO, 2nd)
Jeffrey Francisco def. Lloyd Jardeliza (Unanimous Decision)
Robin Dingcong def. Welbert Berondo (Majority Decision)
Robin Langress def. Jonathan Pedrosa (TKO, 1st)
Diomel Diocos def. Jovani Casin (Unanimous Decision)
Arvin Magramo def. Carlo Hernandez (TKO, 2nd)
