WBC Youth: Filipino Refugio, Japan’s Seita battle to a draw

Filipino prospect Jonathan Refugio battled tough Japanese foe Seita Ogido to a draw after 10 rounds for the World Boxing Council Youth World light flyweight championship on Sunday at the Tomigusuku in Okinawa, Japan.

Refugio dominated the earlier rounds and gave all what he’s got in trying to dismantle Ogido, who proved to be tough nut crack as the two settled for a majority draw in the main event of the fight card organized by Hiranaka Promotions.

Ogido a proud son of Okinawa, registered the first draw in 14 fights, 11 of them ended in victories against two losses while Refugio, a 23-year-old native of Malaybalay, Bukidnon, now has a fight record of 16 wins, 5 losses and 5 draws.

Using lightning quick footwork and handspeed, Refugio gained enough points in the early rounds but he hurt his knuckle in the fifth round that told heavily on his attempt to finish the Japanese off.

Ogido, knowing he was behind on points, went on a relentless attack in the latter rounds, just enough to earn him a draw from two judges on similar 95-95 scores. One judge had Refugio slightly ahead, 96-94.

A rematch is now being considered by both camps.

Two other Filipinos saw action in the promotion held as part of the celebration of the 21-year anniversary of the Hiranaka Boxing School Gym.

Ryan Lumacad went through a similarly close superflyweight contest that ended in a draw against Go Onaga after eight rounds while while Rey Las Pinas was not as fortunate as he lost by unanimous decision to Masatoshi Kotani in their 8-round featherweight fight.