Historic moment for Philippines boxing

CEBU, Philippines — History beckons for Philippine boxing as Jerwin Ancajas (27-1-1, 19KOs) will defend his IBF super flyweight belt against his compatriot Jonas Sultan (14-3, 9KOs) today at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

It marks the first all-Filipino world championship bout in 93 years, when Pancho Villa defended his world flyweight title against Clever Sencio on May 2, 1925 in Manila.

The two ring gladiators easily made weight during the official weigh-in yesterday, signifying their readiness to rumble in a scheduled 12-round bout.

Ancajas is tipped as the favorite over Sultan owing to his maturity and vast experience.

But Ancajas must not in any way flirt with complacency as Sultan, determined and hungry for a world crown, always performed beyond expectations when the odds are stuck against him.

Sultan was the underdog when he fought two-divison world champion Johnriel Casimero and two-time world title challenger Sonny Boy Jaro last year, yet he ended up pulling a big surprise.

The ALA Gym mainstay stopped Jaro in round eight, then upset Casimero by decision in their IBF eliminator to earn a mandatory shot at Ancajas' throne.

They may be rivals, but Sultan and Ancajas share the same honor and pride of raising the Philippine flag in this ground-event.

"For me, I'm really proud for this fight because I am the one fighting for a championship that is history-making in the Philippines. I am very grateful that I am the one. This is my dream in life, to fight for the world championship," said Sultan ealier.

As for Ancajas: "There are many great fighters in the Philippines, and I am happy that Jonas and myself can share this big stage. We are making history, and I am glad that we can fight to see who is the best."

With that, their fellow countrymen could very well say, 'may the best Pinoy boxer wins'.