CEBU, Philippines - Edrin “The Sting†Dapudong scored an impressive first round knockout to dethrone South African champion Gideon Buthelezi and to capture the IBO bantamweight title yesterday at the Emperor’s Palace Resort and Casino in Johannesburg, South Africa.
In a report from Philboxing.com, Dapudong connected with a vicious left hook to the South African’s jaw who was momentarily separated from his senses in the 2:29 mark of the first round.
Buthelezi who won their first bout last November on a split decision seemed confident enough as the boxers sized up each other but the moment Dapudong dug in a left to the body Buthelezi momentarily dropped his guard.
The 26-year-old Dapudong who fought two years ago for the WBA flyweight title but lost to Mexican Hernan Marquez, improved his record to 28-5, spiked with 17 knockouts.
Dapudong’s victory ended the long streak of losses by Filipino fighters which started with Manny Pacquiao’s loss in December, followed by heart-breaking defeats of Brian Viloria and Nonito Donaire, Jr. (FREEMAN)