Reigning super WBA and IBF bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue drew praises from Filipino pug Michael Dasmariñas after their world title bout at Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas, Nevada Sunday (Manila time).
Inoue took down Dasmariñas after three dominating rounds to remain unbeaten in 21 matches on top of 18 knockouts.
Though this wasn't the first time he got down due to a vicious body shot, Dasmariñas believes Inoue is worthy of being an undisputed champion.
"Si Naoya Inoue talagang total package (Naoya Inoue is really a total package)," Dasmariñas told FightHype.com. "Nandoon na 'yung bilis, speed, power (He has the speed and power)."
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The Pili, Camarines Sur native recalled his first loss, similar to Inoue's, when he got knocked out by Marbon Bodiongan way back in April 2012.
At that time, Dasmariñas, now 28, was only on his fourth professional bout.
"Malakas 'yong niya (Inoue). Natimingan ako sa katawan kaya 'di ako nakahiga (His punch was strong. He got the right timing with the body shot that's why I couldn't breathe)," added Dasmariñas. "'Yong una kong pagkatalo body shot din. First loss (My first loss was from a body shot as well. That was my first loss)."
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Boxing fans lauded Dasmariñas for showing guts and strong will, especially after getting back on his feet twice from Inoue's body blow -- a direct hit to the midsection at the liver area.
But the Japanese "Monster" went for the finisher and unloaded another one which prompted referee Russell Mora at 0:15 sans counting.
That said, Dasmariñas, who fell to a 30-3-1 record, felt sorry for the fans with his performance but vowed to come back to redeem himself soon.
"Masasabi ko lang sa mga kababayan ko sa Pilipinas, ginawa ko lahat ng makakaya ko. Pasensya na dahil natalo tayo pero babawi tayo (To all my Filipino fans and compatriots, I know I did my best. I'm sorry for my performance but I vow to redeem my loss)."