Optimum Boxing: Concepcion vs. Francisco In Manila July 19

Rafael “El Torito” Concepcion will return to the country of his biggest victory to take on the undefeated Drian Francisco in Manila, Philippines on July 19.

Concepcion won the WBA Interim Super Flyweight title last September in Cebu City by upsetting the highly favored, previously undefeated AJ “Bazooka” Banal by spectacular 10th round knockout.

Concepcion, ranked 4th by the WBA, 6th by the WBO and 8th by the WBC, will fight undefeated opponent Drian Francisco, who is ranked number 10 by both the WBA and WBO at flyweight, for the WBA International Super Flyweight belt.

Concepcion is looking forward to heading back to the Philippines. "The Filipinos know and love their boxing and everyone was very good to us last time," he said. "I look forward to going back".

Francisco, undefeated in 16 bouts, is coming off a second round knockout of Indonesian Sharil Fabanyo which took place on April 19 in Manila.

Concepcion’s manager Damon de Berry said, "This is a tough fight against a strong undefeated fighter. I hope this bout will position E'l Torito' to fight for the world title, but first we must get past Drian Francisco".