FORMER world champion Johnriel Casimero got a huge break in his super-bantamweight debut after the Korean Boxing Member (KBM) Commission overturned the no-contest outcome of his fight against Ryo Akaho of Japan into a knockout win.
The Korean boxing body in a statement ruled the bout as a legit victory for the Filipino after the fight was initially declared a no-contest following Akaho’s claim he could no longer continue upon being struck by Casimero at the back of his head during their match last Dec. 3 in Incheon, South Korea.
The KBM twice deliberated the issue in reply to the formal appeal made by the Games and Amusement Board (GAB).
See: Casimero comeback fight vs Ryo declared a no-contest over 'illegal blow'
The decision was also based on Akaho’s admission that he was already hurt even before Casimero accidentally hit him at the back of the head.

“Mr. Akaho said the damage he received was not due to the impact of the punch hitting the backs of his head. He took a break to fight again, but he gave up because he couldn’t. And he admitted it was a KO defeat,” said KBM chairman John Hwang.
The change in fortune raised Casimero’s record to 32-4 with 22 KOs and put him in the mix as a likely contender in the 122-pound division as Akaho was a former world bantamweight title challenger.
Akaho, 36, fell to a 39-3 record with 26 KOs.
GAB likewise was grateful for the action the KBM did in its appeal.
“GAB commends KBM Chairman John Hwang and his team for their decisive action and stellar leadership,” it said in a statement.
“GAB supports KBM’s decision and will continue to support the said commission in its boxing regulation functions. GAB likewise joins the KBM in wishing Mr. Casimero and Mr. Akaho all the best in their future endeavors.”
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