By Rey Danseco
THE second title defense of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific flyweight title by highly world rated Rexon Flores of his throne has been moved 14 days to March 25.
The Camp John Hay in Baguio City has been chosen, making it a historic venue for this world-class boxing event in the northern Philippines. The bout will be taped for a national television telecast.
Flores’ promoter and manager Gabriel “Bebot” Elorde Jr., Tony Perlas of Baguio’s latest hang-out along Baguio’s Session Road named Red Lion Pub and local boxing promoter Raffy Panagan, incumbent councilor in Baguio City, will install the 12-round championship tiff along with exciting bouts in the undercard.
Veteran fighter Wook-ki Lee, reported as a former South Korean light flyweight champ, might be installed as challenger. His title crack is subject on the Filipino-American WBO Asia Pacific chairman Leon Panoncillo’s approval or denial.
Lee is the fifth victim of Manny Pacquiao, the bout took place on April 24 1997 in Makati City. But Korean matchmaker markets him as formidable challenger for the WBO world No. 2 contender Flores (15-2-4, 8 KOs).
If given a green light by the WBO, Lee would see action before a hostile Filipino crowd for the third time.
Lee figured in a first round draw in his Philippine debut on February 24, 1996 with Marlon Carillo, one of only eight fighters who went the distance against then future superstar Manny Pacquiao, in April of 1996.
Lee took a first round knockout loss at the hands of Pacquiao, who then had 17-1 record, in their flyweight bout.
Lee is reportedly learned from his loss to Pacquiao and losing his next two bouts in Japan, as he has riding a decent winning streak.
The 5-foot-4 Filipino champ Flores is obliged to put his title on the line until March against a challenger of his choice.
The 5-foot-4 boxer-puncher of Paranaque City by way Cadiz City scored two knockdowns in the third round en route to a unanimous decision win in his only title defense against the durable Alwi Alhabsy of Indonesia on May 14, 2005. He won the belt also with a decision, over previously undefeated Thai fighter Aree Phosuwangym in July of 2004, in Manila.
