In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Albert Francisco reaffirmed his superiority in the ring by defeating Robert Paradero in their highly anticipated rematch on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The event, held at the Mayor Vitaliano D. Agan Coliseum in Zamboanga City, was promoted by Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial, adding prestige to the night's bouts.
Francisco's Dominant Performance
Francisco, aged 25, captivated his hometown crowd with a commanding performance that led to a unanimous decision victory. The judges scored the fight overwhelmingly in his favor, with tallies of 98-92, 100-90, and 99-91, indicating a clear and decisive win. This triumph allowed Francisco to successfully defend his Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF) flyweight title, solidifying his status as a top contender in the division.
With this win, Francisco's professional record now stands at an impressive 15 wins, one loss, and one draw, including 10 knockouts. In contrast, Paradero, a former world title challenger, saw his record adjust to 19 wins, 13 losses, and two draws, with 13 knockouts. This rematch served as a redemption for Francisco, who had previously defeated Paradero by knockout in the fourth round of their first encounter.
Co-Main Event: Mindoro's Unbeaten Streak Continues
In the co-main event, Weljohn Mindoro maintained his unbeaten status with a spectacular knockout victory over Indonesian veteran Wellem Reyk. Mindoro ended the fight just 47 seconds into the second round, delivering a devastating combination that included a left jab, right cross to the head, and a powerful left hook to the body, sending Reyk to the canvas.
Mindoro's record now boasts 16 wins, no losses, and one draw, with all 16 victories achieved by knockout, showcasing his formidable power and precision. Reyk's record fell to 22 wins, 35 losses, and four draws following the defeat.
Undercard Action: Piala's Comeback Victory
On the undercard, Cebuano boxer Bryx Piala made a strong comeback after two consecutive losses, securing a unanimous decision win over Sandy Volante. This victory marks a significant turnaround for Piala, demonstrating resilience and skill in the face of adversity.
The event highlighted the vibrant boxing scene in the Philippines, with fighters from various regions showcasing their talents and contributing to the sport's growth. Promoter Eumir Marcial's involvement underscored the importance of such events in nurturing local talent and providing platforms for athletes to shine on a national stage.
