Abapo to risk RP title vs. Marzan in Talibon

ALA Boy Bart Abapo seeks to create fireworks in the ring two days before New Year's Day as he is set to defend his RP super lightweight crown against erstwhile title-holder Rex Marzan of Cagayan de Oro City topbilling the "Rambolan sa Talibon" card on December 30 at the CPG Multi-Purpose Center in Talibon, Bohol.

The explosive showdown will be a grudge rematch of sort as Abapo (16-4-2, 11KOs) and Marzan (14-18-1, 7KOs) fought for the same title last March 5 at the Island City Mall in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

In that bout, Abapo survived a second round knockdown on the way knocking out Marzan in the eighth frame.

After wresting the crown, Abapo had a successful stint in Korea by scoring a bloody technical decision win over Korea's Dong Geun Jang last July. He, however, suffered a heart-breaking loss to former world contender Yodsanan Sor Nanthachai in his previous bout two weeks ago at the Royal Square in Bangkok, Thailand.

Marzan, on the other hand, also saw action abroad but fell prey to Japanese Masato Arai last July 7 in Japan. He again fought and lost to Dondon Lapuz for the Philippine Boxing Federation lightweight belt last October 18 at his hometown in CDO.

The slambang event is presented by promoter Sammy "Don King" Gello-ani of SGG Promotions International in cooperation with the local government unit of Talibon headed by mayor Juanario Item.

An action-packed undercards have been lined up featuring RP No. 2 light flyweight contender Donnie Nietes against Roldan Malinao of Butuan City, Danny Bontilao against Roland Econas, Edwin Gastador against Ronald Postrano, and Reman Salim against Phil Angcamor.

This will be Nietes' first fight after suffering a cut on the right eyelid during a sparring session. Nietes, then, was slated to fight in the undercard of the OPBF elimination bout between Z Gorres and Pornobnum last October 29 at the Mandaue City Sports and Cultural Complex.

Salim will be clashing with veteran Angcamor after an unsuccessful stint in Mexico where he bowed down to Miguel Roman in their WBC Youth super bantamweight championship.

Newly minted pro boxers, Milan Milendo and Tagbilaran's Tiny Tyson, will open up the show against Rodel Emboy of Cagayan and Peter Paul Suico, respectively.

Before the pro card, exciting amateur bouts will feature Talibon boxers versus Cebu and Tagbilaran's rising simonpures.