Julaton to defend WBO 122-lb belt against Villafranca

Filipino-American Ana Julaton is set to defend her World Boxing Organization (WBO) super bantamweight championship belt against Mexican challenger Jessica Villafranca on September 30 at the Polifuncional in Kanasin, Yucatan, Mexico. Julaton (9-2-1, 1 knockout) hopes to capitalize on the rising popularity of women's boxing in Mexico as she looks forward to display her talents in front of Mexican boxing fans opposite Villafrica (12-3-0, 6 KOs). She said that her exposure in enemy territory could lead to other possible match ups pitting her against other Mexican boxers. "I want to show the Boxing World that I will fight anyone, anywhere, at any time and will do my utmost to represent the proud Filipino nation in the great traditions that they have come to expect," said Julaton. Orion Sports president Allan Tremblay said, "This event is done in association with my great partners at Yucatan Boxing and together we are proud to bring this world championship fight to Kanasin, Yucatan." "Further, I am pleased and proud to have reunited Ana Julaton with GMA Network Inc., which has done so much to build her vast following among boxing mad Filipinos in both the Philippines and around the world." GMA Network Chairman Atty. Felipe Gozon added: "We are excited about Ana Julaton's next fight which we will be airing on the GMA Network in the Philippines, GMA News TV and GMA Pinoy TV, worldwide. We have supported Ana's boxing career from the beginning as we have always believed that she has the qualities of a champion." The event at the Polifuncional will also feature Kanasin favorite Danny Flores (9–1, 6 KOs) who will take on Ivan Diaz (7–1, 3 KOs). Also appearing in the fight card will be Canadian heavyweight champion Neven Pajkic (16–0, 5 KOs) against Benito Quiroz (6–1, 6 KOs). — RAF/JVP, GMA News