RISING Filipino bantamweight Kenneth Llover gets his first career acid test as a pro with former two-time world champion Luis Concepcion serving as his next opponent when he returns to the ring next month.
Set on August 17 at the Winford Resort and Casino in Manila, the fight will be the first for Llover, 22, since wresting the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation bantamweight title with a first round stoppage of Japanese Keita Kurihara in Tokyo, Japan.
The impressive win raised Llover’s unbeaten record to 14-0, including 9 KOs.
READ: Llover scores 1st round KO of Japanese foe to wrest OPBF crown
But Concepcion, 39, is expected to serve as a big challenge for the General Trias, Cavite native.
The Panamanian once held the WBA flyweight and super-flyweight titles in a career marked by wars against formidable opponents such as Hernan Marquez, Artem Dalakian, Andrew Moloney, Khalid Yafai, among others.
Overall, he has a record of 40-11, with 29 KOs.
“Concepcion is a two-division world champion and the most decorated foe yet for Llover. He brings a wealth of experience with over 50 fights. This bout will show how ready Llover is for the next level. Fans can’t miss this one," said Gerrypens Promotions head Gerry Peñalosa.
The fight will also be Llover’s return bout in the country after spending his last two matches in Japan.
“I am excited to fight in front of my kababayans again. Luis Concepcion is a warrior; he is aggressive and experienced. I expect him to bring the fight. This is going to be an explosive night," said Llover.
The showdown will be co-promoted by Japan’s Kameda Promotions, led by ex-world champ Koki Kameda, who is set to travel to the Philippines to witness the action firsthand.
The event is also co-presented by Winford Resort and Casino Manila.
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