■ Harley F. Palangchao
Undefeated Cordilleran boxer Carl Jammes Martin is the new World Boxing Organization super bantamweight champion after winning via technical knockout against Chaiwat Buatkrathok on Dec. 18 at the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañaque City.
The 24-year-old boxing prodigy from Lagawe, Ifugao connected punches to the head and body of the Thai boxer, who was visibly hurt on the sixth round.
Buathrathok managed to get back on his feet before the 10-count but the referee opted to stop the contest giving Martin a TKO win.
Earlier, the Thai boxer who had 40 wins and eight losses tried to distract the southpaw Martin, as the latter switched stances but the Filipino fighter remained focused until he found the right opening in the sixth round.
The end came in 28 seconds into round six when the Filipino fighter landed a solid blow that floored the already gassed-up Buatkrathok.
Martin has improved his record to 23 wins with 18 by way of KOs and TKOs.
Prior to the fight, Martin has signed contract with MP Promotions, and is expected to be back in training anytime for his possible bout in the United States.
Martin is the current International Boxing Federation International super bantamweight champion.
Earlier, the camp of Martin announced the approval of his visa for the United States, a good start in line with his dream to fight in the international arena.
Last August, Martin earned a unanimous decision victory against Oscar Duge of Tanzania at the Elorde Ballroom in Parañaque.
Martin admitted that Duge was his toughest opponent yet as the Tanzanian boxer landed some solid blows during the 10-round non-title bout.
