By Ronnie Nathanielsz

Featherweight Reman Salim (17-11-1, 5 KO’s) scored a 4th round TKO victory over Eugene Keto but super featherweight Joman Omanz dropped a six round split decision to Francis Oaike in a PNG vs Pinoy fight card at the Sports Inn in the Papua New Guinea capital of Port Moresby last Saturday night.

Peter Pusal of National Online reported that both bouts were exciting and action-packed.

Salim who was naturally bigger than Keto proved too strong and had too much experience for the PNG fighter who put up a game challenge. The report monitored by BoxingScene.com, www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports said that Salim used his size and experience to constantly bully his way on the inside. The Filipino picked his shots and connected with a variety of punches, mostly right straights which he mixed with solid hooks to the body.

Keto was the quicker fighter but he was unable to hurt Salim even with his best shots and combinations.

Keto visibly tired by the third round and was there for the taking. Salim pounced on the PNG boxer in the fourth round and dropped him twice before International Boxing Federation referee Steve Marshall of Australia stepped in and stopped the fight at 2:05 of the fourth round.

But the Port Moresby fans had something to cheer about when former national amateur flyweight champion and reigning South Pacific Games champion Oaike launched his pro debut with a win over the highly-fancied Omanz.

Pusal reported that Oaike won over the partisan crowd with a spirited performance against the taller Omanz that included “getting off the canvas after being dropped by a body shot” in round three.

The PNG champion set  what Pusal described as “ a terrific pace and constantly took the initiative, attacking the lanky  Omanz with both hands and using his speed to out-hustle Omanz in the exchanges.”

Referee Marshall said “that’s as good as any professional bout I’ve ever refereed. That’s as good as it gets at this level. You can’t ask for more..”

Oaike showed tremendous heart and determination to snatch an inspired victory in his pro debut.