ALA fighters out to enhance title bids

MANILA, Philippines - Genesis Servania and Arthur Villanueva of the famed ALA boxing stable of Cebu are just trying to stay on track in becoming future world champions.

That’s why on March 1, the two undefeated boxers will give their all in the initial Pinoy Pride boxing card this year at the Solaire Resort and Casino Hotel.

A victory for both Servania and Villanueva will push them closer toward a title shot.

“Every time there’s an opportunity, every time it comes, we are ready,” said the 25-year-old Villanueva, who is ranked No. 3 by the WBO in the flyweight division.

“I’m ready, too. I feel okay. I think I’m ready for a world title,” added the 22-year-old Servania. He is also ranked No. 3 by the WBO in the super-bantamweight class.

Servania will face former WBA super-flyweight champion Alexander “El Explosivo” Muñoz of Venezuela.

Muñoz carries an impressive 36-5 record with 28 knockouts and is used to the spotlight, having fought in the undercard of Floyd Mayweather’s fight with Robert Guerrero last year at the MGM Grand.

“It’s okay,” said Servania (23-0 with nine knockouts) when asked to comment on his next opponent. “We will see it inside the ring.”

Villanueva (24-0 with 14 KOs), was originally scheduled to fight Juan Hernandez of Mexico in a 12-round bout. But the 26-year-old Mexican figured in a motorcycle accident the other day and couldn’t make it here.

Dennis Canete, vice president of ALA Boxing Promotions, said they are now looking for a last-minute replacement for Hernandez.

Canete said they are considering a Japanese opponent because of the proximity.