MANILA---Reigning WBA super flyweight champion Drian Francisco is confident challenger and Thai rising star Tepparith Singwancha will not last the distance when they tangle May 1 in Petchaburi, Thailand. “I want to finish the bout early and knock out Tepparith,” said Francisco during a break in training in sweltering conditions on a makeshift ring at the Touch Gloves Boxing Gym in Agoncillo, Batangas.
Dubbed as the Golden Fists for his unblemished 20 (16 KOs) mark, Francisco said he isn’t afraid to defend his title away from the country.
”I dedicate this fight to the heroism of Filipino workers who will celebrate Labor Day on May 1 and I’ll fight anywhere in the world to give honor to the country,” said Francisco, who crowned himself interim champion when he bludgeoned Thai hero Duangpetch Kokietgym November in the northernmost province of Nong Khai near the Thailand border.
Saved by the Bell Promotions president Elmer Anuran said his ward is in perfect shape for the bout.
“Drian knows the importance of this bout in his relentless pursuit for Hugo Cazares’ world title. The Thai can punch and Drian isn’t taking him lightly,” said Anuran.
