FILIPINO boxer Marlon Tapales claimed the World Boxing Association and International Boxing Federation World Super Bantamweight titles from the previously-undefeated Uzbekistan boxer Morudjon Akhmadaliev in a split decision win in San Antonio, Texas on Sunday.
The victory did not come easy. But Tapales said the match was very important to him, which was why he did his best to counter the attack of his opponent.
He also had to fight through the pain he felt in his arm. It came from excessive training and dogged him during the match.
But in the end, the fighting spirit of this Lanao del Norte native prevailed.
“Kailangan kong isuntok kasi laban na yan eh. Bukas wala naman laban, so ayos lang, tiniis ko na lang yung sakit,” he said in an online interview.
But he did prepare well for the fight.
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His team hired a coach that focused on developing his body and improving his condition. This had a huge impact on his performance in the fight, especially during the middle rounds.
The Filipino Boxer also did important punch combinations to defeat the former champion.
Inspired by loved ones
Tapales said his family was his main reason and inspiration for his pursuit of the world title.
“Yung pamilya ko, yung anak ko, sila talaga yung inspirasyon ko rin po,” he said.
With his latest victory, Tapales now has 37 wins and 3 losses in his boxing record. He is still number 1 in the IBF Super Bantamweight ranking.
He appears to be itching for a match with the undefeated Naoya Inoue, who is nicknamed “The Monster.”
A video posted on Twitter showed Tapales telling Inoue “You’re next,” indicating that he wants the Japanese boxer to be his next opponent.
Tapales and his team are scheduled to return to the Philippines this coming April 17.
