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02/22/2009 Archived Entry: "Favio Medina Takes on Orlando Lora for Vacant IBA Title"
Favio Medina Takes on Orlando Lora for Vacant IBA Title
By Ricardo Ibarra
Favio Medina in his back and forth brawl with Henry Mitchell last year
Sand Point, Idaho’s Favio Medina has spent the last few years working towards an opportunity to challenge for a world title. Throughout his run up the ladder he has managed to build a strong fan following in the inland Northwest and a reputation as one of the toughest and most exciting fighters the region has seen in recent years. Taking on such notables as former world title holder Ivan Robinson and tough New Zealander Santos Pakau, Medina has consistently delivered exhilarating performances, a fact that has made fight fans excited about his potential.
This upcoming Thursday, February 26th at the Coeur D’Alene Casino in Worley, Idaho, Medina will attempt to take a major step forward in his career as he faces off with undefeated Mexican power puncher Orlando Lora in a twelve round battle for the vacant IBA Jr. Middleweight title in what promises to be the local favorite’s toughest test to date.
Lora, of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, is touted as a fast rising, aggressive and versatile contender who carries a strong technical arsenal and power in both hands. While his record does not feature an array of recognizable names, his seventeen career knockouts in twenty-two professional wins is impressive, regardless of whom they have come against. It’s clear the man can punch.
Whether he can punch hard enough to discourage the resilient Medina remains to be seen. The local favorite has built his reputation on his rugged determination and toughness. With a title on the line and two aggressive sluggers facing off, this promises to be an action fight from the start.
In addition to an intriguing main event, promoter Moe Smith has lined up a solid undercard featuring some of the region’s best local talent. In an eight round heavyweight bout, fan favorite Skyler Anderson takes on journeyman Chris Koval. Koval has faced some skilled world class competition, including former world heavyweight champion Shannon Briggs and should present a tough task for the young local hopeful.
Also on the card, the always exciting Leo Bercier, now fighting as a cruiserweight, takes on Ron Simons in a solid four round match-up and up and coming David Lopez, of Parma, Idaho faces Portland’s Osvaldo Rojas.
The card will feature six bouts in all with a scheduled start time of 7pm. Tickets are available at the casino box office or at www.ticketswest.com. For more information visit the casino website at http://www.cdacasino.com/html/events_promos.htm.
