Vic Saludar proved to be the more experienced fighter as he defeated Robert Paradero to claim the vacant World Boxing Association minimumweight title Saturday at the Biñan Football Stadium in Laguna.
Saludar, the 30-year-old boxer from Polomolok in South Cotabato, took a split decision win as he came out aggressive in the final three rounds of the match.
Aquil Tamayo scored the bout 115-113, while Danrex Tapdasan had it 116-113 both for Saludar, while Alfie Jocosol gave it to Paradero at 118-110.
A former champion when he won the mini-flyweight championship of the World Boxing Organization against Ryuya Yamanaka of Japan in July 2018, Saludar improved his record to 21 wins with 11 knockouts and four defeats.
As for Paradero, who was in control of the fight between the 7th and 9th rounds, it was his first loss after 18 wins with 12 knockouts.
It was the first title fight in the country this COVID-19 pandemic organized by Elorde International Productions of Gabriel "Bebot" Elorde.