Banal on a tough mission

CEBU, Philippines - WBO No.1 bantamweight contender AJ “Bazooka” Banal faces a major stumbling block before the second world title shot of his career on March 24 at the Pacific grand ballroom of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Banal (26-1-1, 19KOs), who last fought on October 8, 2011 in Bacolod City where he clubbed Mexican Mario Briones by decision, will defend his WBO Asia-Pacific bantamweight title for the fourth time against another Mexican toughie in Raul "El Bule" Hidalgo in the main event of the "Pinoy Pride 13" fight card presented by ALA Promotions and ABS-CBN Sports.

Hidalgo (16-5, 12KOs) will be Banal’s final test before the ALA Boxing Gym stalwart vies for the WBO 118-pound crown currently held by Mexican titlist Jorge 'Travieso" Arce.

It was earlier reported that Arce plans to move up in weight to challenge three-division world champion Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire, Jr.

Should this happens, Banal will definitely figure in a world championship bout this year.

In the explosive undercard of the Banal-Hidalgo showdown, undefeated Filipino warriors Albert "The Prince" Pagara and Arthur Villanueva will slug it out against separate foes.

Pagara will go up against Thai Phupha Por Nobnom (10-7, 9KOs), while Villanueva will take on Rey Migreño (15-18, 13KOs) of La Trinidad, Benguet.

OPBF flyweight champion Rocky "The Road Warrior" Fuentes will likewise showcase his stuff in this exciting show against Mexico's Javier Franco (19-6, 10KOs). - THE FREEMAN