Dy retains BKB world crown

MANILA, Philippines — One night in April during the Pacquiao-Elorde Awards Night in Okada Manila, Filipino bare knuckle boxer Rolando Dy had an emotional reunion with his father, former world boxing champion Rolando Navarrete.

It was a tearful moment that ended years of estrangement. And it proved to be an added boost as the 34-year-old Dy overpowered American boxing legend Paul Malignaggi via a second-round stoppage Saturday to retain the BKB World Super Welterweight Championship in Manchester, England.

It was the fourth straight victory for Dy, and sixth overall that included five via knockouts in seven fights, coming five and a half months after he bested Welsh man Liam Rees via unanimous decision in Wales that earned him the BKB Super Welterweight belt.

Dy showed the signature power that his father had during the latter’s reign of terror in the boxing ring in the 80s.