Filipino boxing campaigners Rodex Piala and Jomar Paliwen both faced defeat on a tough Friday night in Australia, with Piala suffering a knockout loss in a championship fight.
Piala's Promising Start Ends in Fourth-Round Knockout
The main event at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall, Queensland, on January 16, 2026, saw Cebuano fighter Rodex Piala challenge for the WBO International super-featherweight title held by Australian Liam Wilson. Piala, 30, started strong, effectively targeting Wilson's body and landing a significant overhand right in the second round that momentarily stunned the champion.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the fourth round. Wilson maneuvered Piala against the ropes and delivered a powerful left hook to the ribs. The blow sent Piala to the canvas. He was unable to beat the referee's count, with the stoppage coming with just four seconds remaining in the round.
Career Records Shift After Brisbane Bouts
This defeat marks a significant setback for Piala. His professional record now falls to 12 wins and 2 losses, with only one of those wins coming by knockout. The victor, Liam Wilson, improved his standing to 18 wins and 3 losses, securing his 10th career knockout victory.
Paliwen Succumbs to Unbeaten Polkinghorn
On the same fight card, another Filipino, Jomar Paliwen, was outclassed by the undefeated Australian prospect Billy Polkinghorn. The bout went the full six-round distance, with all three judges scoring every round for Polkinghorn, resulting in a unanimous decision (60-54) across the board.
This loss adjusts Paliwen's record to 7 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with five knockouts. Polkinghorn maintained his perfect slate, moving to 5 wins and 0 losses, with two stoppages.
The night in Brisbane proved challenging for the Philippine contingent, highlighting the fierce competition at the international level. Both fighters will now look to regroup and plan their next moves following these defeats.
