Viloria boxer of the year in Elorde memorial rites

MANILA, Philippines - WBO and WBA world flyweight champion Brian Viloria, the first unified flyweight world champion in 47 years, climbs the stage to receive one of boxing’s highest honors as boxer of the year in the 13th Annual Gabriel “Flash” Elorde Memorial Awards and Banquet of Champions on March 25 at the Sofitel Hotel.

Viloria, known as the Hawaiian Punch, stopped Omar Niño Romero in the ninth round on May 13, 2012 at the Ynares Sports Arena to retain his WBO flyweight title.

He challenged Hernan Marquez on Nov. 17, 2012 in a flyweight unification match, staking his WBO title and the latter’s WBA crown.

He went on to stop his opponent in 10 rounds to become the first flyweight unified world champion since 1965.

The awards rites, hosted by the Elorde clan, are sponsored by COBRA Energy Drink, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes and PAGCOR.

The Hawaii-based 31-year-old champion joins WBO light flyweight titlist Donnie Nietes, IBF light flyweight ruler Johnriel Casimero and WBC flyweight champ Sonny Boy Jaro among the 2012 world champions who will be honored as boxers of the year in the annual rites marking the 78th birth anniversary of Da Flash, the country’s first International Hall of Famer who was undefeated junior lightweight champion from 1960-67.

Nonito Donaire Jr., who won four major title bouts in 2012 to complete an unbeaten run of 29 straight wins during the last 10 years, will receive the Flash Elorde Memorial Belt, given to the best among the roster of world champions during the previous year.

This will be the 13th straight year the Elorde clan, led by the legend’s wife Laura, will be conferring local boxing’s most prestigious awards to Filipino champions. Also to receive honors are 2012 international and Philippine titleholders.

Spicing up the Awards Night are boxing bouts featuring WBC No. 7 light flyweight contender Jonathan Taconing, Philippine bantamweight champion Monico Laurente, Phl No. 7 jr. lightweight contender Juan Martin “Bai” Elorde, grandson of Flash Elorde, Gimuel Magramo and Fritz Bolinquet against top-rated fighters.

Others to be honored are the year’s best promoter, trainer, judge and referee, the best fight of the year and most promising boxer.

Citations will also be presented to sportsmen whose contributions made an impact on professional boxing during the year.

For more info about the event, call up Beth or May 09162423657 or 8250625.