PH boxer Ladon loses decision to Colombian Martinez in Rio

MANILA, Philippines – Filipino boxer Rogen Ladon lost a unanimous decision to Colombia’s Yuberjen Martinez, ending his campaign at the Rio Olympics in the round of 16 on Monday, August 8 at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

The 3 judges scored the fight for the 24-year-old from Colombia, 30-27, 29-28 and 29-28.

Ladon, who was seeded to the second round, came out aggressively in round one, firing away with his southpaw lefts while the 24-year-old Martinez looked to counter with his left hooks. By the end of the first round Ladon had begun to back up, looking for space to land his straighter punches.

Martinez, who defeated Brazil’s Patrick Lourenco in the round of 32, was the busier fighter throughout the final two rounds as the Bago, Negros Occidental native withered under the torrid pace.

The loss eliminates the second and final boxer from the Rio Olympics after lightweight Charly Suarez dropped a split decision to Joe Cordina of Great Britain in the round of 32.

Next up for the Philippines in Rio is judoka Kodo Nakano, who will compete in the men’s 81kg round of 64 on Tuesday evening at 9 pm. – Rappler.com