'Triple Thrilla in Compostela' tonight

Cebu - Driven by Manny Pacquiao’s sweeping success over Oscar de la Hoya barely a week ago, former IBF minimumweight champion Florante Condes begins his journey to redemption tonight as he takes on the up and coming Ronnelle Ferreras of Manila in the explosive “Triple Thrilla in Compostela” boxing card at the Compostela Sports Complex.

The 28-year-old Condes seeks to regain lost pride and glamour after surrendering his IBF belt to Mexican Raul Garcia in his first defense last June 14 at the Estadio Arturo C. Nahl in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico. He dropped Garcia in round five, but went on to lose by split decision.

“It’s a test for him. It’s his comeback and he must prove that he still has what it takes to become a world champion again someday,” said noted international promoter Sammy “Don King” Gello-ani, whose SGG Sports Promotions bankrolls the slambang show in partnership with GRW Productions and the municipality of Compostela under the flagship of Mayor Ritchie Wagas.

Condes holds an impressive ring credential of 22 wins - 20 by knockout, four losses and one draw. He is nicknamed “Little Pacquiao” because he packs a power that resembles to that of the great Pacman.

“Although his opponent is a newcomer, Condes couldn’t take him lightly because Ferreras is a fighter and a very good boxer,” forewarned Gello-ani.

In the other must-see feature of the surefire triple-header co-presented by Viva Sports, Tanduay, and Omega Pain Killer, undefeated WBO regional champions Marvin “Marvelous” Sonsona of General Santos City and Anthony “Rocky” Marcial of Zamboanga City will go up against separate foes.

The reigning WBO Asia-Pacific Youth flyweight champion Sonsona (9-0, 8KOs) will slug it out with Jason Jeda of Manila, while the interim WBO Oriental super featherweight titlist Marcial (10-0, 9KOs) will go up against Cris Alag of Butuan City in the other 10-rounder brawl.

Sonsona snatched the WBO Youth plum with a masterful second round stoppage of Joel Rafols last October 4 at the Naga Sports Complex in Naga City, Cebu. A day before that, Marcial clinched the WBO Oriental diadem by stopping Thongthai Rajanondh in round three at the Talisay City Sports and Cultural Complex.

Also worth watching for is the defense of PBF light flyweight crown-holder Ronald Castrodes of Bohol against Rodel Quilaton.

In the supporting bouts, Omega Boxing Gym mainstays Elf Gitgano, Reil Mandate, Jason Canoy, JR Mamulang and Gerson Mercado will tangle with Marvin Batolina, Edcel Tuñacao, Andy Seneres, Loloy de la Peña, and Ricky Nuñez.

The 10-bout extravaganza promptly starts at 7 pm with the four-round rumble between Bohol’s Samuel Galinato and Cebu City’s Edcel Tuñacao. — EBV (THE FREEMAN)