Tepora wants ‘Super’ champ Santa Cruz next

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Jhack ‘El Kapitan” Tepora wants to further galvanize his status as a world featherweight champion.

That is precisely the reason why the IPI-Omega Gym fighter calls out one of the biggest names out there in his division, barely a day after formally introducing himself on the world stage.

Tepora became the newest toast of Philippine boxing when he scored a spectacular ninth round stoppage of Mexican Edivaldo ‘Indio’ Ortega to win the WBA Interim featherweight crown on the undercard of the blockbuster ‘Fight of Champions’ show last Sunday at the Axiata Arena here.

In a methodical display of ring craftsmanship, the 25-year-old Tepora knocked down Ortega with a crushing uppercut midway in the ninth round.

The gallant Mexican managed to get up only to be at the receiving end of another punishing wave of attack by Tepora, prompting Puerto Rican referee Roberto Ramirez to wave off the bout at the 2:38 mark.

Tepora’s reign, however, is only an interim basis, meaning not permanent.

Aside from Tepora, the WBA has two other titleholders in the 126-pound weight class:Leo Santa Cruz of Mexico, the ‘Super’ champion, and Jesus Rojas of Puerto Rico, the regular champion.

That drives Tepora, still unbeaten 22 fights with 17KOs, to prove that he’s the best among the rest.

If he has his way, Tepora wants to challenge next Santa Cruz to further test his limits as a featherweight champ.

“There are many great champions out there in my division but I want to fight Leo Santa Cruz next, if given a chance,” said Tepora without batting an eyelash. “If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best.”

Tepora though said he will just abide by whatever immediate plans his handlers will chart for him.

“They know what’s best for me, and I will just follow what they want me to do,” said Tepora. (FREEMAN)