Cebuano pug Silvano: ‘I can be a champion’

PHILIPPINE Boxing Federation (PBF) no. 1 light flyweight contender Vergilio “Maton” Silvano of Dalaguete, Cebu is now in his final stages of training for his upcoming fight against Charlie “Steelbar” Cabilla of Bukidnon on July 29 at the J Center Mall convention hall in A.S. Fortuna Street in Mandaue City.

Both will fight for the vacant PBF light flyweight championship in the main event of the Fight Fury boxing series.

The 22-year-old southpaw, Silvano (11-2, 6KOs), who spars with IBF lightflyweight champion Johnriel “Quadro Alas” Casimero, said he is confident of his chances against Cabilla.

“I trained very hard for this fight because I want to prove to everyone that I can become a champion,” said Silvano. “I also want to improve my record so I could challenge Jerson Mancio for the Philippine lightflyweight title.”

According to IPI-Naris Singwangcha promotions event producer Michael Arquillano, he is planning to pit Silvano against Mancio (15-6, 3KOs) this October if the Dalaguete native triumphs over Cabilla (12-10, 2KOs).

“Mancio is a very tough and skillful boxer but I know I can fight him for the title,” said Silvano.

Silvano is described by his stablemates as a pressure fighter who keeps on coming forward and launching strong and accurate combinations.  /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL