In intense battle Jilo Merlin loses to Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym in round 9 in Thailand
Jilo Merlin of Agusan del Sur performed astonishingly well during the first eight rounds of the exciting combat.
The Filipino moved smart showcasing an effective technique based in speed and defense, by which Merlin was able to battle the more accomplished the experienced and dangerous Thai warrior.
The fight progressed in even terms with back and forth dominance till the 7th round when Jilo Merlin landed good power hooks in combinations, which sent Poonsawat to the ropes hurt and in apparent trouble. But the Thailander survived the remaining seconds of the round to be saved by the bell.
Poonsawat's experience and good conditioning allowed him to gain ground in the eight stanza as Merlin seemed to be tiring, due to the huge amount of energy spent during the 7th round attacks.
By ninth round, a mistake in Merlin's defense allowed one of Poonsawat's trade mark left body shots to get through, making certain damage as the Filipino fall momentarily to the canvas.
Jilo Merlin bravely stood up by the count of six and seemed to be getting his air back while showing willingness to go on in battle. But surprisingly the Thai referee waived the fight off, declaring Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym winner by technical KO in round 9.
Regardless of the loss, Merlin received a standing ovation and sincere applause from Thai fans present during the intense televised battle.
In opinion of Pinoy Brico Santig, matchmaker and cornerman of Jilo Merlin, the fight was waved off too soon.