MANILA, Philippines – Aston Palicte failed on his mission to become the next Filipino world champion following a technical knockout loss to Kazuto Ioka in Chiba City, Japan on Wednesday, June 19. 

Palicte missed out on the chance to capture the vacant World Boxing Organization super flyweight belt after taking a beating from Ioka in the 10th round – forcing referee Kenny Chevalier to stop the bout.

Coming off a rousing second-round stoppage off Jose Martinez in January, Palicte looked primed to seize his first world title almost a year after figuring in a draw with compatriot Donnie Nietes for the same WBO belt.

However, Ioka – electrified by the cheers of his countrymen at the Makuhari Messe Hall – put on a masterclass and made history as the first Japanese to win titles in 4 weight divisions. 

Palicte was still on the offensive in the 10th round until he was rocked by a solid right to the head by Ioka.

Landing another beautifully placed head shot, Ioka pushed the action against the weary Palicte before Chevalier stepped in with 1:14 minutes left in the round to signal the end of the bout. 

Ioka improved to 24-2 (14 KOs) and bounced back from his split decision loss to Nietes in December, while Palicte dropped to 25-3-1 (21 KOs). – Rappler.com