Banal fights Pinoy killer in title bout

MANILA, Philippines - AJ Banal almost laughed when told that his next opponent, Thailand’s Pungluang Sor Singyu, had beaten 14 Filipino fighters inside the ring.

“Baka mga tricyle driver,” said Banal, bringing the house down.

Seriously, the 23-year-old pride of Cebu said he’s ready to take on Singyu for the vacant WBO bantamweight crown on Oct. 20 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

“Alam ko na ang gagawin ko (I know what to do),” said Banal yesterday at Shakey’s Malate, the second and last stop of the Pinoy Pride 17 press tour.

Banal and Singyu were in Cebu yesterday to promote the coming title fight. On Saturday, they head back to their respective training camps.

“This is a very interesting fight. That’s why we’re here promoting,” said Chad Canares of the ALA Boxing Promotions.

It will be the first time that Banal, with an impressive ring record of 28 wins, a loss and a draw, will figure in a world title fight.

The only loss in his career, spiked with 20 knockouts, came four years ago when he lost what looked like a won match against Panama’s Rafael Concepcion.

“I’ve learned from my past mistakes,” added Banal, who according to his trainer Edmond Villamor, has so far logged in a total of 40 rounds of sparring.

“We plan to do over 100 rounds of sparring for this fight,” said Villamor.

Singyu is a very busy fighter because at 24, he has already fought 43 fights, losing only to Stephane Jamoye by decision in 2009 in Belgium.

It’s the first time he’s fighting in the Philippines but during the press conference he was bold enough to declare that he will knock Banal out in seven rounds.

“Good preparation for this fight. Seven rounds (knockout),” said Singyu’s interpreter, Michel Do.

Among the Filipino fighters he had beaten were Bryan Vicera, Monico Laurente, Javier Malulan, Jilo Merlin, Jestoni Pepito, Mark Anthony Geraldo and Eden Sonsona, who’s certainly no “tricycle driver.”

Banal’s trainer countered by saying the Thai won’t last nine rounds.

Singyu has a background in muay, with 25 matches under his name. Banal said he doesn’t care.

“Hindi naman siya sisipa eh (He won’t kick here),” said Banal.

Again, he brought the house down.