By Rey Danseco
 
REIGNING World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific flyweight champion Rexon Flores recently suffered a sprain to his right hand and anticipates a quick return to training.

Medical reports found out that it’s a minor injury, we have nothing to worry,” said Flores’ manager Gabriel “Bebot” Elorde Jr. yesterday.

Flores, the Philippine's brightest bet in the flyweight division, initially feared that he suffered a broken hand when a hard punch landed on the head of compatriot Cris Dujali in the third of their 10-round fight in the undercard of Gerry Peñalosa-Dario Azuaga on Saturday night at Ynares Center in Antipolo City.

As it was swollen from the wrist to hand, Elorde suspected the injury was incurred from possibly an improper handling of the handwraps by Flores’ trainer, former WBA and WBC flyweight champion Erbito Salavarria.

Handwraps, firmly in place, help protect the bones and tendons in boxer’s hands. In addition, it helps support the wrist and thumb.

“There are several styles of wrapping hands, there’s a modern way and old ways,” said Elorde. “But let’s charge it to experience. Flores may be allowed to punch the heavy bag in the next two weeks and not a full 30 days as we first anticipated.”

The 23-year old Flores is the highest Asian ranked flyweight in the world under WBO flyweight champ Omar Narvaez. He sports a 15-2-4 record with 8 knockouts in his four-year campaign since April 21, 2001.

Flores won four fights this year, including his first and only successful title defense when he scored two knockdownsen route to unanimous decision win against Indon challenger Alwi Alhabsy on May 14 at New Olivarez Sports Center in Paranaque City.