Florante Condes: Boxing Career and Notable Fights
Florante Condes, nicknamed “The Little Pacquiao”, was a Filipino professional boxer who had an inspiring career in the minimumweight division. Born on May 20, 1980 in Looc, Romblon, Philippines, Condes turned professional in 2002 and quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive southpaw style and punching power.
Early Career Struggles
Condes’ early career was filled with struggles and setbacks. In 2002, he suffered his first professional loss against Sonny Boy Jaro. However, Condes remained determined and continued honing his skills, racking up victories against opponents like Ruben Billones and Romel Engracia.
Becoming a World Champion
Condes’ perseverance paid off in 2007 when he captured the IBF minimumweight title by defeating Muhammad Rachman via split decision in Jakarta, Indonesia. He knocked Rachman down twice en route to the hard-fought victory, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the 105-pound division.
Condes lost his IBF title to Raúl García in his first defense on June 14, 2008. His later contest against Ronelle Ferreras took place that December, after his championship reign had ended. Undeterred, Condes continued pursuing another shot at the title, facing top contenders like Nkosinathi Joyi in an eliminator bout.
Memorable Fights and Accolades
Throughout his career, Condes engaged in several memorable battles against elite opposition. In 2011, he faced the then-undefeated Wanheng Menayothin, who was ranked #9 by The Ring magazine at the time. Although Condes lost the fight via unanimous decision, he earned praise for his gutsy performance against the future minimumweight great.
Condes’ achievements were recognized by boxing publications, with The Ring ranking him as high as #3 in the strawweight division in 2008. He shared the spotlight with fellow Filipino boxing stars like Nonito Donaire during that era.
Retirement and Legacy
After a few more fights, Condes eventually retired in 2016 with a respectable professional record of 27 wins (23 KOs), 10 losses, and 1 draw. His exciting style, heart, and success as a world champion made him a beloved figure in Philippine boxing.
While he may not have achieved the same level of stardom as Manny Pacquiao, Florante Condes’ journey from humble beginnings to becoming a world champion is an inspiring tale of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. His legacy as “The Little Pacquiao” will forever be etched in the annals of Philippine boxing history.
Sources
Additional sources: https://qa.philstar.com/cebu-sports/2008/12/13/423165/triple-thrilla-compostela-tonight; https://boxrec.com/wiki/index.php/IBF_Minimumweight_Title_Fights
