WBC minimumweight champion Wanheng Meenayothin should have few problems against challenger Jeffrey Galero of the Philippines in his first title defence today, the Thai's handlers said yesterday.
WBC minimumweight champion Wanheng Meenayothin, right, and challenger Jeffrey Galero.
The 29-year-old Thai, who dethroned Oswaldo Novoa of Mexico in November, will take on Galero at a makeshift stadium in Nakhon Sawan.
His handler Piyarat Wachirarattanawongse said that although the Filipino, ranked 12th in the division, is fast, Wanheng was well-prepared and will fight on home soil.
"I am confident that Wanheng will win," he said.
Piyarat said Wanheng is more powerful and more experienced and it will not be too tough for him to win.
"After he beat Novoa, I think he can beat everyone in the division," he said.
"He is likely to knock out Galero. After today's fight, I want him to defend the title in the country three more times before going abroad."
It will be the 24-year-old Filipino's first shot at the world title and also his first overseas fight.
Wanheng's trainer Suparb Boonrod said that his fighter is in a better condition than when he was against Novoa.
"But we cannot underestimate the challenger who is fast and fought as an amateur for several years," he said.
The fight will be live on Channel 7 from 2pm.