Lagumbay to challenge Hiraoka for WBO Asia Pacific title

By Lito delos Reyes

Alvin “Time Bomb” Lagumbay of Bukidnon will challenge reigning WBO Asia Pacific super lightweight champion Andy Hiraoka of Japan on September 13 at the Korakuen Hall in Japan.

“I’m ready now, I weigh 146 pounds. I’m done sparring with Michel Dasmarinas,” said the 27-year-old Lagumbay.

Lagumbay, a former WBO Asia Pacific welterweight champion, will leave on September 10 together with trainer Tacy Macalos, former IBF World light flyweight champion.

“I will try my best to win and then just train hard

for a KO,” said Lagumbay, who is currently has 13 wins, 5 loses, 1 draw with 11 knockouts.

Lagumbay stopped Atilla Kayabasi in the 2nd round last March 12, 2022 in Dubai. He won the WBO Asia Pacific welterweight title by knocking out Keita Obara in the 2nd round last April 12, 2018 in Japan.

Hiraoka, on the other hand, is undefeated with 20 wins and 15 knockouts.

He already made two bouts this year, both title fights.

Hiraoka first scored a technical knockout in the 10th round over Cristiano Aoqui last February 28 at Korakuen Hall.

He then stopped Shun Akaiwa in the 6th round last June 7 at Super Arena in Shun Akaiwa. Hiraoka is making his 3rd title defense.