Suganob could challenge Santiago for WBO title

Regie "Filipino Phenom" Suganob, a top contender in the light flyweight boxing division, is now positioned to challenge for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) world title. This change comes after champion Shokichi Iwata lost unexpectedly to Rene Santiago from Puerto Rico on March 13 in Japan. Suganob had expressed a strong interest in fighting Iwata after impressively defeating Kai Ishizawa with a technical knockout in his previous match. Despite being the leading contender, Iwata chose to fight Santiago instead, a decision that turned out poorly for him. With Iwata no longer champion, Suganob's chances for a title shot have greatly increased. He is likely the best candidate to face Santiago for the vacant title. Suganob has a professional record of 16 wins, 1 loss, and 6 knockouts. In 2023, Suganob fought for the IBF light flyweight title in South Africa but lost. Since then, he has rebounded by winning the WBO Global title and defeating opponents decisively, including Ishizawa and Thai boxer Nanthanon Thongchai. Santiago, the new champion, has his own accolades, including being a former WBO Latino light flyweight champion. If Suganob does not get an immediate title shot against Santiago, he may fight for an interim title against Thanongsak Simsri, the division's third-ranked contender.