Paradero knocks out Malupangue to end seven-fight jinx

Former world title challenger Robert “Super Inggo” Paradero ended his seven-fight jinx that spanned for three years with a decisive fourth round knockout of Charlie Pizon Malupangue during the highly successful first edition of the “Bakbakan sa Masbate” boxing series presented by Masbate Governor Antonio Kho’s ATK Promotions on Saturday night at the full-packed Cataingan Sports Center in Cataingan, Masbate.

The 27-year-old Paradero couldn’t contain his happiness and was nearly reduced to tears after he finally scored a win since he lost by split decision to fellow countryman Vic “Vicious” Saludar in their World Boxing Association (WBA) minimumweight championship bout in February 2021 in Binan City, Laguna.

“Masayang-masaya ako na nanalo ulit at naibalik ang kompiyansa ko sa aking sarili,” said Paradero moments after raising his record to 19-7-2 now spiked with 13KOs.

“Salamat sa lahat ng mga Masbateno lalong-lalo na kay Governor Antonio Kho sa oportunidad na ibinigay nila sa akin,” added the pride of Malaybalay, Bukdinon who has Cebuano roots from San Fernando town.

 Paradero and Malupangue actually figured in an intense exchange of blows from the get go.

But Paradero suddenly landed a powerful body shot to the ribcage that sent Malupangue down on both knees gasping for breath late in round four.

Malupangue failed to stand up at the count of 10, prompting the third man on the ring to wave off the bout with just a second remaining of that fateful round.

“Sana tuloy-tuloy na ‘to kasi pangarap ko talagang magiging world champion balang araw,” Paradero said.

In the supporting main event of the historic show sponsored by Kho Shipping Lines, Sherwin Dacullo of Mandaue City’s Noy Pacing Flores Gym punched his way to a unanimous decision victory over Sandre Paderan in their action-packed rematch that thrilled spectators to the bone.

So entertained by the well-applauded “Fight of the Night” that Governor Kho, who was watching at the ringside, gave each fighter a P5,000 incentive.

In the other bouts, Yuli Hindoy edged Jerry Tabago by split verdict, while Datu Adam stopped Christian Salazar at the 1:17 mark of the second round.