ESPINOSA WORLD TITLE FIGHT IN COTABATO

Manila, Oct. 10, 1997 - It will be a first in Mindanao's history: World Boxing Council featherweight champion Luis Espinosa will defend his title December 6 in Koronadal, South Cotabato.

The title fight's details were agreed upon at a meeting attended by Espinosa's Japanese manager Joe Koizumi, South Cotabato Governor Hilario de Pedro, Espinosa's wife Maricherie and four municipal mayors of the province.

De Pedro promised to extend all available amenities to Espinosa and his entourage. He plans to house the Filipino campaign in a private dwelling in Lake Sebu a month before the fight to accustom him to train in high altitude.

Ongoing are negotiations with Vintage Enterprises for live coverage of the fight to be beamed worldwide.