‘Hawaiian Punch’ thanks Pinoys

MANILA – IBF junior lightweight champion Brian “the Hawaiian Punch” Viloria said he is pleased with his successful title defense against Jesus Iribe.

Viloria and Iribe went the distance in their 12-round fight held last Saturday (Sunday in Manila) in Honolulu, Hawaii.

“Wow, great fight. I hope the crowd enjoyed that,” he said of his unanimous decision win over Iribe.

The judges scored 118-110, 117-112, and 117-111 for Viloria.

He noted that his victory is very important because it was won in his Hawaii hometown.

“I'm all set... ready for the next level,” the IBF junior lightweight champion declared.

It has been said that a rematch could be arranged between the two fighters who headlined the “Island Assault” fight card.

“Instead of fighting, I will take you out for cervezas here in Hawaii,” remarked Viloria.

Filipino support

His family, fellow Filipinos and Hawaiians were equally delighted.

“We're very happy and proud of him. It was a good fight,” the Viloria family told ABS-CBN News.

“This is definitely another pride for us,” said former Hawaii Gov. Benjamin Cayetano

Viloria, for his part, took the time to thank the people who came out to cheer for him.

“I'm thankful to the Filipino community for the support,” he said. “I look forward to be back in the Philippines.” – With a report from Monette Rivera, ABS-CBN News North America Bureau