Jerwin Ancajas rates his performance in 9th title defense

Reigning IBF world super flyweight champion Jerwin Ancajas made the ninth successful defense of his world title via unanimous decision over Jonathan Javier Rodriguez this Sunday at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, USA.

The Filipino controlled the first half of the fight then dropped Rodriguez in round 8, only to see the Mexican come back and even win the championship rounds. It was Ancajas’ first fight in sixteen months, and his trainer and manager Joven Jimenez confessed he got worried towards the end.

“I got scared in the championship rounds because he was getting hit with those uppercuts. Jerwin can handle it, but honestly, I got scared,” Jimenez told GMA News Online.

“The layoff had a slight effect, I was not satisfied with how he threw his punches. Jerwin got excited when he got a knockdown so he poured everything in round 9. He should've rested in round 10 but Rodriguez came back so he was forced to brawl.”

Ancajas, for his part, says that he never thought that the layoff would have an effect until he got in the ring to trade leather with his counterpart.

“In my head, it was not supposed to be a factor because I was religiously training but long layoffs can really be a factor. I agree with coach Joven, my hands and feet felt different and I was slow in there,” told the Panabo City native.

Ancajas is nevertheless satisfied with his performance and outcome of the fight. Though there is no doubt that he won the fight, the Filipino pug believes that there are areas he can still improve on.

“I am happy with my performance I would give myself a 7 out of 10. He is a gritty fighter with a Mexican style, at least I showed that I can also trade. I loved that people were cheering during the fight that is how I know we entertained.” — LA, GMA News