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Filipino-American Brian Viloria bags
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The champion barely beat the count and as he staggered and fell like a skid row drunk. Referee Raul Caiz Jr. decided to stop the scheduled 12-round match.
The crowd erupted as Viloria jubilated with his corner men led by Freddie Roach. Viloria's chief handler, Gary Gittelsohn, climbed the ring and embraced his fighter.
Brian Viloria then draped a large Philippine flag around his shoulders, sending the audience again in a frenzy inside the spacious arena that is home to the Los Angeles Lakers. And to make it even more dramatic, Viloria spoke in Tagalog.
"This is the best feeling in the world," said the 24-year-old from Honolulu, Hawaii, who shortly after birth spent the next six years of his life in Ilocos Sur.
"This was all worth it after running away from dogs during my morning roadworks," said Viloria, who dedicated the fight to Mexican fighter Ruben Contreras, who lapsed into a coma after suffering a knockout defeat at the hands of the Filipino-American puncher last May at the very same ring where he put on a sterling showing of speed, skills and strength.
"I almost choked when I saw Ruben watching at ringside," said Viloria. "I almost cried but I had to hold it back because I am fighting for a world crown and I don’t want to look like a crybaby."
"My right hand landed right on the money," added Viloria, who plans to travel to the Philippines to visit his ailing grandfather before the year ends.
Promoter Bob Arum said Viloria’s win "opened up a lot of possibilities" for the member of the US 2000 Sydney Olympics team.
Condensed from Manila Bulletin, by Nick Giongco
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