MANILA, Philippines — James delos Santos delivered yesterday the victory that he promised against Slovenian Nejc Sternisa to claim his fifth gold medal in the E-Karate games and inch closer to a crack at No. 1 world ranking
The 30-year-old Delos Santos reasserted his mastery of Sternisa, 25.9-23.4, for another top-podium finish going with a pair of silver and a bronze in 13 tournaments over four months.
It was a third win against Sternisa for the two-time SEA Games bronze medallist, now ranked No. 2 in the world, so close behind No. 1 Eduardo Garcia of Portugal.
Interestingly, Delos Santos won over Garcia the last time they faced off in the Athletes’ E-Tournament on Aug. 13. And it speaks well of his chance to dislodge the Portugal bet at the top.
“This tournament will add points to the virtual kata world rankings. The journey to No. 1 is a long road, but I’m not stopping,” said Delos Santos, who thanked his sponsors Star Kaffea Corp and Cheat Day.