Roberto Gonzales stopped previously unbeaten Arjan Canillas in the seventh round late Saturday night to capture the vacant Philippine lightweight crown at the Ynares Sports Center in Pasig.
Relying heavily on his right hand, Gonzales (27-2 with 17 KOs), troubled Canillas (13-1 with ten KOs) with his jab and movement, making it easier for him to land his favorite weapon.
Top international referee Ver Abainza was forced to bring up the ringside physician to check on Canillas’ eye and was advised to call a halt to the scheduled 12-rounder.
With the win, the Romblon-bred and Batangas-based Gonzales will be set up for a lot more high-profile bouts down the road as promised by manager Elmer Anuran of Touch Gloves Boxing Gym.
It was Gonzales’ seventh straight win after tasting stoppage losses four years ago.
But it wasn’t all gloom for ALA Boxing after Jimmy Paypa upset two-time world title challenger Bernabe Concepcion via a split decision.
Paypa’s win was highlighted by a first-round knockdown. (Nick Giongco)