Maasin City (29 March) --- Adonis Aguelo successfully defended his Philippine Boxing Federation superbantamweight title via a split decision over Johnrey Verano of Bukidnon at the Otis Mall, Butuan City last Saturday, March 21, 2009.

Aguelo now sports a pro record of 5-0-1 with 3 wins by way of knockout. Verano's slate dropped to 16-12-2 with 7 wins by KO.

According to matchmaker Willie Flores the fight was well-fought with the young Aguelo ruling over Verano in the ten-round PBF title fight. Verano though did not wilt easily as he held his own against the youthful titlist from Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

Promoted by Rex Wakee Salud International Promotions, the bout was held in front of cheering Butuanons most of whom rooted for Verano, which came from the neighboring province of Bukidnon.

Aguelo's next title defense is slated in Maasin City in the month of May against an undetermined opponent yet. Maasin City boxing fans would want to see their idol fight in his own hometown once again.

Aguelo was born in Barangay Matin-aw of this city and was at first trained by his father who was also a former boxer and a former barangay captain of their village. He was discovered by the late Tiny Espina who brought him under the tutelage of the Maasin City Sports Council.

He then participated as an amateur boxer in various inter-city developmental boxing championships and the national youth boxing championships. He turned professional at the age of 19.

It was Aguelo's first defense of the title he won in just five professional bouts. Philippine boxing Federation apparently gave him the green light to fight a championship due to the high-percentage knockout rate he had in his previous fights.

Aguelo won the PBF title with a very remarkable second-round knockout win over journeyman Tiny Tyson of Cagayan de Oro City last November 20, 2008 at the Maasin City Gym, Maasin City, Southern Leyte.

Aguelo was destined to follow what the late PBF lightflyweight champion Alex "Maasin Bomber" Aroy had left. In his pro fights he scored wins over Reggie Campos, JR Mamulang, and Randy Megrino and a draw with Jose Ocampo.

Verano had lost five of his last six bouts, including three losses to Thai boxers Chatchai Sasakul, Narindech Sakchatree, Devid Lookmahanak in Thailand.

Before the Butuan City fight, he lost to Ricky Sismundo in Calapi, Bohol on October 13, 2007. The long layoff obviously affected Verano's fighting stamina and rusted his ring skills.