Barriga must dominate duel vs Zhakypov

LONDON – Chef de mission Manny Lopez is confident fighter Mark Barriga will overcome Kazakh Birshan Zhakypov but he needs to keep the initiative in three rounds to win convincingly.

“I’m confident Mark will win this one, but he can lose it by the judges’ decision,” said Lopez, also the former president of the Amateur Boxing Association.

The Philippine camp remained wary of Kazakhtan’s influence in the world boxing body (AIBA) following Zhakypov’s controversial 18-17 win over France Jeremy Beccu in the first round in the light flyweight class Tuesday.

But Barriga said he’s ready and feels comfortable with his 48kg weight. He added that he’s in better shape than when he fought in the first round of the 46-49 kg division four days ago.

“I think I am in a much better shape than when I fought (Manuel) Cappai in the first round. I’m in excellent shape,” said Barriga, Philippine boxing’s newest revelation after the retirement of 2008 Beijing veteran Harry Tañamor.

The 20-year-old native from Panabo, Davao del Norte climbs the ring Saturday, at 1:45 p.m. (8:45 p.m. Manila time), for another important fight in his quest for the country’s first-ever medal after failed attempts by six Filipinos before him in the last seven days.

“I’m only 48 kilos so I can still take a full meal without going above the weight limit,” said Barriga during breakfast Thursday.

During his and the term of Lopez’s father, former Mayor and PSC chairman Mel Lopez, the Philippines produced a silver medalist in Onyok Velasco and two bronze medalists in Roel Velasco and Leopoldo Serrantes.

“He’s our biggest hope for a medal, and I hope the officiating will be fair,” said Lopez, wary with the rampant biased officiating which he tried to fight during his term.

Barriga is looking for a victory that would put him within three wins from earning the country’s first bronze or four from claiming a historic gold, the first since 1924.

National coach Rhoel Velasco, said Zhakypov, like other Europeans, is weak in the body, which will be the focus of Barriga’s attack.

The Kazakh, has a longer reach with his 5-6 height but that’s no longer a major concern for the team since the 5-foot Barriga proved he could handle rivals much taller than him.

NOTES: Barriga’s parents have reset their trip back home to see their son fight again, and lead the cheering along with countrymen who cheered after the referee raised the Filipino fighter’s right hand as victor over the Italian.