Michael Fareñas (32W-3L-3D, 26 KOs) is in the final stages of his training for his Philippine featherweight title bout against defending champion Edgar Gabejan (22W-25L-4D, 6 KOs) of the Aljoe Jaro Stable this Saturday at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City.
Fareñas was at the Cebu City Sports Center gym yesterday afternoon hitting the punch mitts with trainer and former two-division champ Dodie Boy Peñalosa Sr.
With Fareñas were the Peñalosa brothers, Dodie Jr. and Dave. They also had a punch mitts session with their father. They proceeded to hit the double-ended bag and skipped rope to keep their weight in check.
Fareñas is one of the prize pupils of former two-division world champion and fight promoter Gerry Peñalosa. In his last bout, he beat Mexican Fernando Beltran Jr. by split decision in Hawaii.
Gabejan won the title by split decision over Vin-Vin Rufino in Binangonan, Rizal.
Dodie Jr. (6W-0L) is coming off a third round TKO win against Thailand’s Kong Kiatpracha Gym. Marcos (10W-13L, 1KO) has more fights and fought quality names like Larry “Bon Jovi” Canillas, Ramie Laput, Rolando Magbanua and Genesis “Asukal” Servania.
Younger brother Dave will make his pro debut in a four rounder against John Edu Torbiso.
Gerry said that nephew Dave actually wanted to turn pro the same as Dodie Jr. last year. “His father said no but he kept on pressing him until he finally agreed this year.”
Also set to see action are Eden Sonsona vs. Godwin Tubigon (10 rounds), Virgilio Silvano vs. Lionel Legada (8 rds), Anthony Sabalde vs. Jimmy Paypa (8 rds), Sonny Katiangdagho vs. Rodel Wenceslao (6 rds), Jolel Payao vs. Jaime Bermiso (4 rds), Raymund Impic vs. Sherwin Caday (4 rds) and Jerome Casas vs. Romel Acruz (4 rds).
Fight time is 6 p.m. while ticket prices are as follows: Gen. Admission (P50), upper box (P100), lower box (P200), ringside (P300) and special ringside (P500).
Promoter Gerry Peñalosa informed this writer that there will be a press conference today at 11 a.m. at the Cebu Sports Exchange Bar and Grill in Mango Avenue.