FORMER ALA Boxing gym pug Brian “Buhawi” Lobetania stunned erstwhile unbeaten Japanese prospect Kai Chiba with a resounding fourth round technical knockout (TKO) at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan on Saturday.
The 26-year old Lobetania, a native of Bukidnon was the clear underdog but introduced himself to Chiba and his home fans with relentless combinations to the head and body that turned the eight-rounder non-title bout into a virtual dogfight.
The fight was close before the fateful fourth with both fighters landing jarring shots. Chiba’s end came 26 seconds into the fourth when Lobetania connected a bone-crushing counter right overhand that sent the Japanese to the canvas. Chiba tried to beat the count but was too wobbly to get back on his feet.
The TKO victory improved Lobetania’s record to 13 wins with 11 knockouts along with four losses and three draws.
It was Chiba’s first loss in eight fights.
Lobetania was featured several times in ALA Promotions’ Pinoy Pride series. His ALA debut happened in 2012 where he beat Cebuano Steven Noblefranca by unanimous decision at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
He is now promoted by Brico Santig of Highland Boxing Gym in La Trinidad, Benguet.