Tuñacao in must-win bout

Former world champion Malcolm Tuñacao said he must defeat WBC international flyweight titleholder Randy Mangubat July 28 at Casino Filipino -Parañaque to push his bid for a world title.

Tuñacao, who arrived in Manila Monday for the title fight dubbed "Fist of Fury sa Casino Filipino — Parañaque", told the PSA Forum at the Holiday Inn Manila that making the weight (112lbs) would not be a problem, since he is much aware of the difficulty of shedding excess poundage.

The 12-round fight will be Tuñacao’s first bout since he lost the flyweight crown to Thai Pongsaklek Wonjongkam last March. But hopes are high that the former Filipino champion will succeed in his comeback bid.

"Mabigat na laban ito, pero nakahanda ako," Tuñacao said. "Gusto ko talagang makabalik at muling mapalaban sa titulo."

Two other WBC international fights are on tap. Junior flyweight titlist Juanito Rubillar clashes with Japanese Takahiko Mizuno and bantamweight holder Ricky Gayamo duels Abner Cordero.

Gabriel "Bebot" Elorder, Jr., promoter of the triple WBC international bouts, has promised an exciting night for boxing enthusiasts.

"Hindi ako mapapahiya sa labang ito — mula sa mga kampion hanggang sa mga makakatunggali nila, lahat ng laban na mapapanood ninyo ay hindi matatawaran. This is one of the biggest boxing events to date," he said.

Tickets bought may be exchanged with an equivalent bonus bet certificate at the concierge section of Casino Filipino — Parañaque. Ticket outlets are: Elorde Sports Complex — 825-7229, Casino Filipino Metro Manila Branches: Parañaque — 854-1605, Silahis — 525-8131, Pavillon — 523-8691 to 97, Heritage — 854-8766.