TUBOD, Lanao del Norte, Philippines – Hometown hero and current WBO Asia-Pacific Super flyweight champion Marlon “The Bulldozer†Tapales is ready to defend his belt against formidable Tanzanian fighter Fadhili Majiha on June 28 at the world-class Mindanao Civic Center (MCC) gymnasium here.
The first title defense of Tapales, who is now trained under Wakee Salud, will be fought in his home province of Lanao del Norte.
The championship battle is described by analysts as the toughest fight of Tapales’ carreer and will determine his ranking among the elite super flyweight boxers in the world.
The heavy-handed Majiha boasts of a record of 15 wins, three losses, four draws, with seven knockouts, while Tapales improved to 18 wins, 1 defeat with six knock-outs when he demolished Thai opponent Yodpichai Sithsaithong in four rounds during his last fight.
Also set to see action in the supporting bouts are Reymond Dayham of Malaybalay City versus Jerson Luzarito of Butuan City, Belmar Plaza from Lala, Lanao del Norte against Jaysever Abcede of Valencia City and Ritchie Mipranum from Sarangani Province versus Rogen Flores of Katipunan, Zamboanga del Norte.
The boxing spectacle is one of the highlights of the 55th Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration organized by the Provincial LGU in partnership with Minoru Harada Boxing Promotions.
Tapales gained recognition when he fought and won in the undercard of Pacquiao-Mosley mainer at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.