By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Filipino boxer Ayon Naranjo has checked out of the Yokohama Rosai Hospital after being under observations following a bad beating at the hands of undefeated Venezuelan Jorge Linares last Sunday in Japan.
Naranjo was rushed to hospital after complaining of a headache and dizziness. Initial reports said he was to undergo brain surgery but instead doctors placed Naranjo in the Intensive Care Unit when a slight swelling in the brain was noted.
Dr. Cruz, the Medical Chief of the Games and Amusements Board however disclosed that chances are Naranjo may not be allowed to continue fighting since he had reportedly suffered from slight swelling in the brain and was in the Intensive Care Unit.
In an interview with Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today, Dr. Cruz said Naranjo reportedly suffered "cerebral concussion with contusion" and he would "wait for the results of all the tests before deciding whether he can go on with his career." Cruz said he would examine Naranjo when he returns to Manila.
Even Manny Pacquiao and Filipino boxing writers in Yokohama who watched the fight said Linares branded the bout a "mismatch" while internationally respected referee Bruce McTavish said Naranjo was game but was "not in the same class as Linares who is a future world champion."
Naranjo who lost his last three fights this year surprisingly moved up to No.1 in the GAB rankings in August after being No. 3 in July. In addition he was ranked as a super bantamweight but fought Linares who is listed as a super featherweight with a record of 19-0 with 10 knockouts while boxrec.com had Naranjo with a 3-4 win-loss record.
