Casimero Retains His WBO Crown

Surprising split decision victory over run-and-hide Rigondeaux

- Carlo Anolin

John Riel Casimero vowed to “sur-prise” Guillermo Rigondeaux with a knockout finish as early as the third round. But it never happened and there wasn't a slugfest. Instead, Casimero and Rigondeaux, for almost the entirety of the match with the World Boxing Organization bantamweight belt at stake, seemed to play the game of tag.

In about showered with lots of boos, Casimero scored a split decision win over Rigondeaux to retain his WBO bantamweight title at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California Sunday, Aug. 15 Philippine time.

Judge Robert Hoyle handed Casimero 117-111, Daniel Sandoval had it 116-112 still for the Filipino, while Tim Cheatham scored in favor of Rigondeaux 115-113.

The 12-rounder entered a loop with Casimero doing most of the chasing while Rigondeaux, fighting at his best in a technical approach, circled around the ring and waited for the perfect timing to unload a one-time, big-time counterpunch.

Clearly, the 32-year-old Casimero was desperately putting the pressure to land clear shots but to no avail.