Filipino lightweight prospect Romero “Ruthless” Duno became the new WBO NABO Lightweight champion, winning via TKO in the ninth round against Juan Antonio “Mozo” Rodriguez.

Both fighters threw solid punches although Duno clearly did the most damage. Rodriguez suffered a cut due to an accidental head butt and the Mexican was checked in the ninth round if he could still continue. Having difficulty with seeing, the fight was stopped. The referee went to the judges’ scorecards. Two judges had Duno ahead (85-84 and 86-83) while the third one favored Rodriguez, 85-84. Duno was adjudged winner via a technical split decision victory.

Romero Duno vs. Jose Rodriguez

It was a huge victory for Duno although he didn’t appear so satisfied with the outcome.

“I feel good. Thanks for all who came to watch. Props to team Rodriguez for the great fight. It was a usual Filipino vs Mexicano thriller. He hurt me at times but I hurt him more. This is not the ideal outcome that I wanted but anything can happen inside the ring. Besides a win is still a win and I’m happy to bring home this belt to the Philippines. This win is for my family especially for my daughter, my Sanman team and for my countrymen. Thanks Golden Boy, DAZN and Sanman for this opportunity”, Duno said.

The gracious Rodriguez was humble enough to accept the results.

“Duno was the better man. After all the low blows and head butts, I believe he won. I was asked if I could see and I told them I was having a hard time so they stopped the fight. “

Duno’s manager and Sanman CFO Dexter Tan was happy about the win.

“This paves a way to a world title shot for Duno. We will do our best to arrange it with the help of Golden Boy. Duno trained hard. He should be given credit. It was not our desired result but things happen in boxing and the kid did enough to secure the win”, Tan said.

Tags: Jose Antonio Rodriguez , Romero Duno , WBO , WBO NABO Lightweight , WBO title