Laurente defends title vs Lapuz at Elorde’s

MANILA, Philippines - Philippine welterweight champion Dennis Laurente stakes his title against top-ranked Dondon Lapuz of Bukidnon tonight, at 6 p.m., at the Elorde Sports Center on Sucat Road, Parañaque.

Laurente, currently rated No. 8 in the WBC rating, will be making his second defense to improve his world ranking after losing by a controversial split decision  to Kenny Abril in Las Vegas last Dec. 7. The loss is still under appeal by his manager Johnny Elorde with the Nevada Athletic Commission.

In the undercard, Juan Miguel “The Boss” Elorde, grandson of the late Flash Elorde, spices up the evening when he faces Ryan Soliveres in an eight-rounder at 123 lbs. The bout is expected to draw a huge crowd.

In the supporting mainer, Randy Braga will be pitted against Al Grumo (127 lbs) while Jeffrey  Arienza faces Roselito Campana (135 lbs) in an eight-rounder.

The preliminaries pit Jeffrey Francisco vs Richie Bagaan (6 rds, 113 lbs), Diomel Diocos vs Richard  Elma (113 lbs, 4 rds) and Darwin Obiena vs Jason Nicart (4 rds, 119 lbs).

The event is presented by the Johnny Elorde Management International in cooperation with the Rotary Club of Manila 101 and Cobra Energy Drink.

Admission ticket is P200. Information: 0916-2423657, 8250625 or 8264463.