Baricuatro targets boxing gold

Jay Brian Baricuatro barged into the final of the men’s 50-kilogram division following a 4-1 victory over Omer Izaz of Australia in the World Boxing Cup last Saturday in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Baricuatro landed lightning-quick punches into the body of the 19-year-old Aussie pug and even scored a knockdown in the second round after a well-timed counter.

The officials scored 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 30-27 and 28-29 to seal the Filipinos’ victory.

The Talisay City, Cebu native is fighting home bet Sanzhar Tashkenbay in the final at press time for a chance to lift the World Boxing Cup crown.