Muay Thai power hitters dominate Mano-Mano

The power-hitting bets from the Amateur Muay Thai Association of the Philippines lived up to their lofty billing as they swept the first Mano-Mano Challenge held Saturday night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

World Cup gold medallist Brent Velasco survived the onslaught of slugger Charlie Angel in their final match to rule the lightweight category. World Cup silver medallist Billy Alumno roared his way to the mediumweight crown while fellow national Rodrigo Asiong went up the ring unopposed in the final round to reign supreme in the heavyweight battle.

But Velasco had to dig deep into his bag of tricks to pound out a close decision win over Cebu’s pride Mercido Gesta in the elimination round. He then easily disposed of Jonar Lagasca via a first round knockout in the semifinals before running smack into a tough rival in Angel, the top bet of Benguet’s Way of the Champions.

"Malakas si Charlie at masipag umatake kaya tumakbo-takbo ako tsaka counter-punching. Pero karamihan napatama ko mga sipa," said Velasco who emerged the Best Fighter awardee in the inaugural mixed martial arts tournament that focuses on stand-up fighting skills.

Angel, undefeated in mixed martial arts competition before meeting on stand-up fighting skills.Velasco, dominated the first round as he kept a relentless attack on the national player.

Regaining his bearing in the succeeding rounds, Velasco deftly kept himself out of Angel’s punching range by resorting to hit-and-run tactics. His counter-punches and kicks proved effective in putting Angel away and getting the nod of the judges.

Alumno, a versatile fighter who can both be effective as a boxer and a kicker, disposed of Dare Malecdan of Davao’s Durex Dragon right in the first round via a three-knockdown rule.