Find Article by Date
Fri, 30 Sep 1994

JP/Adrianus retains OPBF title by knocking out RP's Ernie

Adrianus retains OPBF title by knocking out RP's Ernie

JAKARTA (JP): Adrianus Taroreh kept his pre-match promise by knocking out Ernie Elesna of the Philippines in defense of his Orient Pacific and Oriental (OPBF) lightweight championship belt here yesterday.

Adrianus, making his second title defense at smoky Senayan indoor stadium, connected with a lightning-fast left uppercut the second minute of the fifth round, sending the Filipino challenger sprawling to the floor.

Elesna failed to get back on his feet after Indonesian referee Pontas Simanjuntak finished the count.

The unexpected but accurate punch drew some 8,000 spectators into a thunderous celebration, with Adrianus carried on the shoulders of fanatical fans around the ring.

The organizers kept the crowd antsy due to the extended musical show before this most anticipated bout. The boxing committee had to delay the fight until after 9:30 pm in order for it to be aired live on TVRI.

Taking advantage of his longer reach, contender number four Elesna took the initiative with persistent jabs. Adrianus answered back with a few devastating right hands but still unable to finish him off.

"I did everything as planned, but he was too strong," a dispirited Elesna admitted. He further explained that he had "noticed stomach problems" when he steam bathed Wednesday to reduce his weight.

Adrianus, who pocketed Rp 30 million (US$13,800) for the bout, is now eying a world championship bout against World Boxing Association (WBA) holder Guzzie Nazarov of Russia.

"I have long been dreaming of the match. I feel I'm ready to take the title," an emotion filled Adrianus told reporters. Adrianus bettered his win-loss record to 8-1, with two KO victories.

Promoter Lineke Lolowang said she will give Adrianus a chance to box the Russian world champion as early next year.

"Adrianus never lost to Russian boxers in his amateur career. That's why the WBA looks to be a better prospect than both the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and the World Boxing Association (WBA)," said Lineke. (amd)