Gonzales is Saipan Great Match champion

Nonoy Gonzales of the Philippines gave boxing fans much to cheer about, working well in the ring and earning recognition from the judges to capture the Saipan Great Match Champion title during Sunday’s Saipan Boxing Battle of Champions at the Garapan Central Park.

Gonzales dominated against Korea’s Kim Doo Soung as the two took each other to the limit and were both standing at the end of their 10-round title bout. Gonzales landed many strong right and left hooks that bruised the face of Soung and at the end, won by unanimous decision with judges scoring the match 300-269 in favor of Gonzales.

Gonzales opened the first round as the aggressor quickly thrilled his fans as he caught Soung’s defense by surprise and landed a bunch of hooks.

Gonzales’ fury carried over to the second round, where he showcased his patience while waiting for an opportune moment. He got his opening midway through the round and clocked Soung with more punches with a left hook eventually sending his opponent to the mat. Soung managed to get back to his feet and put up a better charge before the end of the round, landing several body shots and jabs.

Soung continued to have several shining moments but dropped his hands on many occasions, giving Gonzales and easier time landing hard hooks and a couple of uppercuts.

Fatigue began to set in for both fighters, who boxed conservatively until the final 10 seconds of every round, when both fighters unleashed powerful blows that got the crowd on its feet.

Gonzales slipped on a couple of occasions, but no harm was done as he continued to get back to his feet and torment his opponent.

Meanwhile, the other title match was won via default after Surasak Makordae of Thailand failed to suit up for the bout, resulting in organizers serving the Saipan Champion 2005 title to Bert Dalisay on a silver platter.

Organizers said Makordae was not able to participate due to travel problems.

Dalisay, also a native of the Philippines, was still determined to give the crowd a show and battled Keith Corpuz of Guam in a three-round exhibition match.

Battle of Champions was organized and promoted by Leo-An International Entertainment. Sponsors for the event include Marianas Visitors Authority, Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino, Aqua Resort Club, D’Best Choice Restaurant, Saipan Koreana Hotel, Asian Airlines, Alamo Rent-A-Car, Northwest Airlines, RJL Logistics, Verizon, Thai Restaurant, Church’s Chicken, Saipan Ice and Water, and UMAC.