FORMER world champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas will be fighting at home in February in a heavier weight class at 118 pounds.
Ancajas, 30, confirmed the to BusinessMirror on Wednesday his decision to move up in weight after he lost twice to Argentina’s Fernando Daniel Martinez, the second only last October 8 in a rematch for the International Boxing Federation super flyweight title.
“There’s nothing else to do but go up and test the bantamweight water,” he said.
But what excites the Panabo City boxer is his fight before his countrymen.
“I’m really happy to fight again in our country, it’s been a long time since I’ve fought here,” said Ancajas, who has flown back home after that loss to Martinez.
Ancajas last fought in the country in Taguig City when he captured the IBF 115-pound belt over Puerto Rican McJoe Arroyo in 2016.
He defended his title nine times until February this year in Las Vegas where he lost the title to Martinez.
He added he would train hard as a 118-pounder starting this week.
“I hope to become faster, durable and stronger at bantamweight,” he said. “I have to focus very well in training and preparation with my trainer Joven Jimenez.”