PMI willing to stage Suganob’s IBF world title fight in Bohol

CEBU, Philippines — PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions has just staged what is by far the biggest boxing event in the history of Bohol.

The highly successful “Kumong Bol-anon XXVI” last September 12 at the Bohol Wisdom School (BWS) Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City featured an International Boxing Federation (IBF) world light flyweight title eliminator and three regional championship bouts involving boxers from four countries.

No less than IBF President Daryl Peoples came over to supervise the fight card, while legendary referee Tony Weeks officiated the main event. Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera was also in attendance.

It was one for the books for the Bol-anons.

The thing of beauty about the blockbuster show was that PMI’s efforts paid off, with all four of its prized fighters, bannered by Regie “Filipino Phenom” Suganob, emerging victorious.

The 29-year-old Suganob scored sweet revenge against Sivenathi “Special One” Nontshinga, knocking out his former South African tormentor in the fifth round to the delight of the hometown fans.

With the victory, Suganob (19-1, 8 KOs) earned a mandatory shot at the IBF light flyweight throne currently held by Thailand’s Thanongsak Simsri (40-1, 35 KOs).

Simsri, 26, will put his crown on the line against Suganob’s fellow Filipino Mark “Rasta Mac” Vicelles (21-2-1, 11 KOs) on September 26 at the Fujisan Messe Exhibition Hall in Shizuoka, Japan.

The winner of the Simsri-Vicelles duel will be obligated to defend the belt against Suganob within 90 days, in accordance with IBF rules.

PMI Boxing CEO Atty. Floriezyl Echavez Podot said they are willing to host the IBF world title fight in their hometown if given the opportunity.

“The idea of bringing the first world title bout in Bohol is still there. The chances are favorable to us, and we are going to do it,” said Podot. “We will do our best to have Regie’s world title fight held in Bohol.”

Under Podot’s guidance, PMI is now setting its sights on the next level, aiming to host an even bigger stage for professional boxing. — (FREEMAN)