By Ray Wheatley — World of Boxing
Japanese 122 pounder Kenichi Yamaguchi (16-1-2, 4 KOs) captured the WBO Asia Pacific title when he was awarded a twelve round points victory over Australian-based Filipino Robert Lerio (14-8-1, 4 KOs) at the Italian Club, North Perth, Western Australia on Saturday. Referee Gary Ingraham deducted two points from Lerio for low punches. Scores at the conclusion Ben Keilty 117-109, Carl Zappia 115-110, Gary Ingraham 114-112. Yamaguchi boxed world rated featherweight Billy Dib in a controversial bout in Sydney in July that resulted in a no contest in round one.
In supporting featherweight bout Clint Hosking (4-0, 2 KOs) scored an impressive four round stoppage of Australian-based Filipino Ernie Gonzalez (5-5-1, 3 KOs). Ernie was down in round four and referee Gary Ingraham crowned Hosking.
Cruiserweight Joel Casey (6-6-3, 5 KOs) forced a second stoppage of David Leitiza (5-2) when the towel was thrown in to save the Perth boxer from further punishment.
Light heavyweight Chris Johnson (3-2-2, 2 KOs) defeated Eric de Mori (4-1, 3 KOs) when the towel was thrown in round four to save de Mori who is the brother of highly regarded Don King managed heavyweight Mark de Mori.
Promoter Justin Footit.