Knockout CP Freshmart returns against Robert Paradero December 14
The little guys rarely get any heavy media attention within the boxing community. At best, they will get a quick flash of light shined on them briefly like someone checking to see if they saw something. Notwithstanding, one fighter that gets some attention is the WBA ‘super’ minimumweight champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong, commonly known as Knockout CP Freshmart (22-0, 8ko).
THE CHAMPION RETURNS
The champion is making a return to the ring against former title challenger Robert “Inggo” Paradero (18-1, 12ko). This will mark his tenth title defense. CP Freshmart is the longest reigning champion of the division and, by consensus, the best fighter in the division.
Boxing enthusiasts have been waiting for the unification with fellow Thailand fighter Wanheng Menayothin. That was before he lost the WBC title to Panya Pradabsri. However, news recently broke that the two fighters are set for a rematch on January 25, 2022.
CP Freshmart is not so much of the big puncher as his moniker would suggest. Instead, he is a buzz saw that can overwhelm an opponent with sheer volume punches, and his ring IQ is above average as he can make adjustments in real-time.
Equally important, CP Freshmart scored a third-round knockout over Siridech Deebook in October, ending a three-year drought.
PARADERO IS GETTING A SECOND CHANCE
Paradero suffered the first loss of his career in a tough split decision fight for the ‘regular’ version of the divisional title against fellow Filipino countryman and former WBO champion “Vicious” Victorio Saludar, back on February 20. In addition, Inggo is the benefactor of the new WBA belt consolidation policy. The regular champion, Saludar, got ordered to fight the former Interim titlist Erick Pacheco. It opened the door for the former title challenger to get another crack at a world title.
Before fighting for the ‘regular’ title, Paradero fought no one the caliber of Saludar. He now has some experience on the championship level. However, will it be enough for the young Filipino fighter to overcome fighting on foreign soil for the first time against the dominant WBA champion?
Catch all the action as the fight unfolds at Phuket, Thailand on December 14.
By: Garrisson Bland
