Role reversal: Taduran favored in title defense against Shigeoka

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A heavy underdog last year, Albay pride Pedro Taduran looks to stop Japanese Ginjiro Shigeoka anew in their title rematch

MANILA, Philippines – The first time they fought for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimumweight crown in Japan, Pedro Taduran was the challenger and huge underdog and Ginjiro Shigeoka was the champion and overwhelming favorite.

When they clash in a title rematch at Intex Osaka on Saturday, May 24, there will be a reversal of roles.

The Filipino slugger, who stopped the then-unbeaten Japanese in nine rounds on July 28, 2024, is now the bettors’ pick, albeit slightly, with 58% choosing Taduran to repeat in the 12-rounder and remain the 105-pound king. 

Bookmakers put Taduran at -120 (meaning a $120 bet netting $100) and Shigeoka +110 (a $100 bet earning $110).

It’s a total reversal of last year, when nearly 91% picked Shigeoka to win, only to be proven wrong by Taduran.

Now that he’s the belt-holder, Taduran doesn’t want to be complacent. The pride of Libon, Albay, has trained longer and harder than in their first battle.

Taduran’s work and preparation under trainer Carl Peñalosa Jr. showed as he came in under at 104.5 pounds during the official weigh-in on Friday, May 23. 

Shigeoka checked in at the exact 105 pounds.

Knowing that Shigeoka is out for revenge and will be springing surprises fighting-wise, Taduran has also tinkered with his ring movements and built up his power and resistance.

Peñalosa even charted Plans A, B, and C for whatever form Shigeoka comes up with.

To avoid complications, Peñalosa has given Taduran the go-signal to go all-out for the knockout, the earlier, the better. – Rappler.com