UNBEATEN Christian “Punchtian” Balunan of Bogo, Cebu will challenge reigning IBF World minimumweight championship Pedro “Kid Pedro Heneral” Taduran of Albay in an all-Filipino title on October 26 at the San Andres Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.
The 25-year-old Balunan [12-0-0, 7KOs], who is trained by Edito “Ala” Villamor, scored four knockouts of his six wins since 2023.
Balunan said that “every boxer has a chance as long as he trains well”.
“We've been training for a whole year. We're ready for the preparation,” said Balunan.
Balunan recently won by technical decision over Robert “Inggo” Paradero of Malaybalay City last December 21, 2024 in Tagbilaran City.
Among Balunan’s other victims were Charlie Malupangue [3rd TKO May 6, 2023], Ariston Aton [UD July 24, 2023], Aditep Maungcharoen of Thailand [3rd round KO], Clyde Azarcon [2nd round KO March 8] and Dexter Alimente [2nd round TKO July 27].
“I think there's a big chance for me to win,” said Balunan.
Taduran [18-4-1, 13KOs], on the other hand, retained his crown by a split decision against Ginjiro Shigeoka of Japan in their rematch last May 24 at Intex Osaka in Osaka.
The 28-year-old Taduran took away the title from Shigeoka by a 9th round technical knockout last July 28, 2024 at the Shiga Daihatsu Arena in Otsu.
The event is billed as the “Thrilla in Manila Countdown” and Manny Pacquiao of MP Promotions is promoting it.
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