By Benjie Varella – THREE years ago, Filipino fight fans were hopeful that another Manny Pacquiao would emerge from the man known in the Philippines as the “Magnum Force”.
With all the media hypes given to the minimum weight contender Rodel Mayol, the fans were shattered and disappointed when he lost to Japan-based Thai Eagle Kyowa for a 12-round unanimous decision, May 2006. He staggered Kyowa several times in the first half of the battle only to come short on points..
What’s even worst was that at his second crack at the title against the tough IBF Light Flyweight Champion Ulises Solis (28-2-2 20kos) of Mexico he was nailed and knocked out cold at the eight round of the boxing match. Well, Solis suffered the same fate when he was annihilated by another Filipino, Brian “The Hawaiian Punch” Viloria.
After two suffered attempts for a world title, he was again destroyed via 4th round KO versus Adrian “El Confesor” Hernandez.
Many boxing analyst thought that that’s the end for Mayol. Some even suggested that it is time for him to hang up his gloves.
But Mayol said he would continue…
After three consecutive heartbreaking losses, Mayol came back to the boxing ring May last year and easily disposed Thai opponent, Wisan Sor Suchanya via 5th round TKO, then countryman Ardin Diale last August.
With these brilliant victories, Mayol is in for another title shot. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao himself is confident that the Magnum Force will be able to pull the trigger this time to capture the world title. In fact, it was the Pacman who helped arrange a title shot for Mayol who is under the stable promoted by the pound for pound king himself, MP Promotions.
But it won’t be an easy task for Mayol because he will be facing a man who belongs to the pound for pound list, the undefeated and universally recognized undisputed JR Flyweight king who also owns the WBO light flyweight title and that is Ivan Calderon of Puerto Rico.
Can the punching power of Mayol (25-3-0 19kos) be good enough to steal the world title from Calderon?
Will he be able to produce that power punch to the speedy, wise and classy fighter Calderon possesses? We have to find that out come June 13th before the main event of the Miguel Cotto and Joshua Clottey World Welterweight Championship bout.
This may well be the last chance of Mayol for a title. No more tomorrows and no more excuses!