Unbeaten Mangubat to make impression in Kumbati 2 fight card

CEBU, Philippines — Tomjune ‘Wardog’ Mangubat (10-0, 9KOs) of the Omega Boxing Gym vowed to make an impression when he takes on Arnel ‘Silencer’ Baconaje (10-3, 8KOs) for the vacant WBC Asia silver featherweight title in the main event of ‘Kumbati 2’ fight card tonight at the Parkmall grounds.

The 21-year-old Mangubat guns for another knockout win but he admitted that it’s going to be a tough task as he battles, Baconaje the reigning Philippine super bantamweight champion.

Considered as one of Omega Gym’s top prospect, head trainer Julius Junco said that they want Mangubat to be tested against tough opponents.

“He has power. We are working on polishing his techniques but the kid got a lot of potential,” said Junco. “He is ready to hurdle obstacles in his road towards a world title shot in the future.”

“My dream is really to be a world champion and the only way I see on how to get it is by working hard in training and to be a disciplined fighter,” said Mangubat, who tipped the scales at exactly 126 pounds, same as Baconaje during the official weigh-in yesterday at the Manggahan restaurant.

Omega Pro Sports International (OPSI) vice president Jerome Calatrava, for his part, said that Mangubat cant afford to lose as it will jeopardize his chances to get bigger opportunities including an international fight.

“If he wins this, he will enter the top 15 of the WBC and it will open up big opportunities for him,” said Calatrava. “We are also looking to give him his first foreign opponent in his next ring appearance.”

In the supporting bouts, other Omega Gym stalwarts in Mark Vicelles and Ponciano Rimandiman will also try score victories.

Vicelles (9-0, 5KOs) battles Robert Onggocan (11-4, 7KOs), while Rimandiman (9-4, 5KOs) faces Rowel Rosia (14-7, 7KOs).

Five more pairs of amateur boxers will add spice in the undercards of this event.