‘King’ Arthur faces tough test in ‘Fists of Fury’ card

CEBU, Philippines - The unbeaten ALA Boxing Gym stalwart ‘King’ Arthur Villanueva (26-0, 14 KOs) will try to prove he has what it takes to become a world champion when he battles former WBO flyweight champion Julio Cesar ‘Pingo’ Miranda (38-11, 29KOs) in the undercard of the ‘Pinoy Pride 29: Fists of Fury’ on February 7 at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium in Davao City.

Ranged against an ex-world titlist, the hard-puncher from Bacolod City is in for a very significant bout that would either define his career or force him to kiss his world titles hopes goodbye.

The 25-year-old Villanueva, who previously defended his IBF International super flyweight crown with a split decision victory over Fernando Aguilar on September 5 last year in Dubai, is now ranked No.1 in the WBO, No.3 in the IBF and No.7 in the WBA.

“This is the biggest fight for me. I will give my best to win impressively against a former world champion,” said Villanueva.

The 34-year-old Miranda poses a great danger for Villanueva, having  reigned as WBO champion five years ago. He lost his belt by unanimous decision to Fil-Am Brian Viloria on July 16, 2011 in Hawaii.

"Miranda is a big test for Arthur, but I am confident because he is working hard right now in training. This will be a very interesting fight," said ALA chief trainer Edito Villamor. “I believe that a boxer with caliber as Miranda will bring out the best in Arthur.”

The other notable fighters whom Miranda fought in his 14-year career include Sammy Gutierrez,  Pongsaklek Wonjongkam, Moruti Mthalane and Filipinos Richie Mepranum and Rodel Mayol.

Co-presented by ALA Promotions International and ABS-CBN Sports, the 'Fists of Fury' fightcard is headlined by light welterweight prospect Jason ‘El Niño’ Pagara, who will stake his WBO International throne against Mexican Cesar ‘El Dolar’ Chavez.— Lemuel P. Maglinte (FREEMAN)