Fists of Pinoy boxing champs to be cast in stone in Elorde rites

MANILA, Philippines – The fists of the greatest Filipino champions of all time will be cast in stone, and, in a break from tradition, the annual Gabriel Flash Elorde Memorial Awards, normally coinciding with the boxing legend’s birth anniversary on March 25, will be held four days later at the Sofitel Westin Philippine Plaza Hotel.

The Elorde clan, led by The Flash’s wife Laura, said a special highlight of the 16th edition of the annual rites, the most prestigious award honoring the greatest of Filipino professional and amateur fighters, is the inaugural “Casting of the Fist” which wil initially include champions headed by eight-division champ Manny Pacquiao, undefeated champion Donnie Nietes, and former four-division world title holder Nonito Donaire and other ex-champions such as Rolando Navarette, Rene Barrientos, and Gerry and Dodie Peñalosa.

Elorde said the casting will immortalize Filipino ring greats in the Elorde Hall of Fame museum which will have a revered place in a permanent shrine inside the 3.5 hectare Elorde property.

Taking centerstage in this year’s Flash Elorde Memorial Awards presented by the family of International Hall of Famer Flash Elorde, the undefeated junior lightweight champion from 1960-67, are 2015 light flyweight champions Randy Petalcorin and Rey “Hitman” Loreto, who capped the year with resounding wins in the first round.

Petalcorin knocked down Chinese Yi Ming thrice in the first round to win the interim WBA crown on April 24, 2015 and finish the year with a 23-1-1 record with 18 knockouts.

Loreto knocked out Nikkosinathi Joyi of South Africa with a brutal left straight to win one minute, 30 seconds into the first round of their title bout in South Africa on March 22.

The Elorde family said the annual rites, which will honor Filipino, international and world champions as well as those who contributed to the promotion of pro boxing, will be held this year on March 29 because the traditional date coinciding with the Flash’s birthday on March 25 falls on Good Friday.

For those interested to witness the historic “Casting of the Fist” and the awards night, tickets are on sale. Call up Elorde Sports Center at 8250625, 8264463 or 09172504156.