In an enthralling encounter, both fighters stood toe to toe in the centre if the ring for most of the fight, as the crowd roared them on at the makeshift arena before the Udon Thani-born fighter claimed a deserved victory.

This hard-fought victory definitely gave a huge boost to Wandee's confidence before he attempts to wrest the title from champion Brian Viloria of the US.

Despite succumbing to his 18th defeat, the 29-year-old Filipino left with his head held high after displaying some excellent attacking boxing and at times he caught the Thai off balance.

Wandee was delighted with his performance as the Filipino had provided him with one of his sternest tests.

"I am very happy with my form today, although in the opening stages I was second best to him [Rubillar]. He is the strongest Filipino I have ever encountered, so this win makes me proud.

"I earlier anticipated that this fight would be tough and unfortunately it really happened. He made my life difficult throughout as he is a typical Filipino boxer who absorbed many punches, plus he is a lefty, which I have rarely met," said Wandee, who improved his record to 49 wins against seven losses and a draw.

Wandee also revealed that he would have one interim title defence before facing champion Viloria. In the closing rounds, Rubillar upped the tempo, but it proved to no avail as Wandee eventually prevailed, with three judges scoring the fight 117-113, 117-113 and 117-111 his way.

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation