Gabriel Santisima Secures WBO Asia-Pacific Title with Dominant Victory in Japan
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Filipino boxer Gabriel Santisima delivered a resounding victory over the previously undefeated Subaru Murata via unanimous decision. The high-stakes bout took place at the iconic Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan, on February 7, 2026 (Philippine time), marking a significant milestone in Santisima's career.
A Historic Win for the Filipino Contender
Santisima's triumph was not just a personal achievement but a moment of pride for Philippine boxing. He handed Murata his first professional loss, showcasing strategic prowess against the hard-hitting Japanese fighter. The victory earned Santisima the prestigious World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia-Pacific super-bantamweight belt, solidifying his status as a rising star in the international boxing scene.
Judges' Scores Reflect Santisima's Superior Performance
The judges' scorecards underscored Santisima's dominance throughout the match. Edward Ligas from Cebu and Mekin Sumon from Thailand both scored the fight identically at 96-93 in favor of Santisima. Meanwhile, the Japanese judge awarded a wider margin of 97-92, all unanimous in support of the Filipino boxer's superior technique and control in the ring.
Updated Records and Future Prospects
With this win, Santisima's professional record improves to 10-1-1, including seven knockouts, highlighting his power and consistency. In contrast, Murata's record now stands at 10-1 with 10 knockouts, as he faces his first career setback. This victory opens new opportunities for Santisima in the super-bantamweight division, potentially leading to bigger fights and further accolades on the global stage.
