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Published on November 30, 2007

Against the Thai-born Japanese champion Den, seven years his senior, the 22-year-old Oledong had a partisan crowd backing him throughout the bout with a display that deservedly warranted the 115-114, 115-113 and 117-112 win.

Thailand had to endure a frustrating title drought since former WBC flyweight champion Pongsaklek Krating Daeng Gym suffered an upset loss to Japanese Daisuke Naito in July, a shameful scenario for the country that has produced countless of champions.

With the fans at the makeshift arena in the 11th Infantry sounding their support with chants of "Ole Ole", the challenger looked fired up and deployed his tactics, and Den had trouble dealing with it.

"I'm very delighted to win the title. It's a reward for all my hard working. I couldn't find words to explain my feeling. It's a moment that would live long in my memory," Oledong said.

Given the result, Oledong improved his unbeaten record to 25 wins with nine knockouts, while Den dropped to 18 wins and two losses.

Kitinan Sanguansak

 The Nation