This will be the third time that a Puerto Rican will challenge a Thai in a world championship bout in Thailand. The first time was in 1986 was when Wilfredo Gomez stopped Sakad Petyindee in three rounds for the WBC 122 pound title. The second occasion was in 1988 when Khaokor Galaxy won a split decision over Wilfredo Vasquez for the WBA bantamweight title.

Both Ruenroeng and Arroyo were outstanding amateur boxers, representing Thailand and Puerto Rico respectively at the Beijing 2008 Olympics. Ruenroeng captured the Bronze medal in 2007 Chicago while Arroyo won the Gold medal at 2009 Italian world amateur championships. Ruenroeng turned professional in 2012 and Arroyo made transition from amateur ranks to professional in 2010.

Ruenroeng would realise his dream to become world champion when he defeated Filipino Rocky Fuentes to capture the IBF 112 pound title on January 18, 2014 in Thailand. In Ruenroeng’s first defense he travelled to Japan and outscored former WBA champion Kazuto Ioka on May 7th. Arroyo would win the
IBF Elimination bout by defeating highly regarded Filipino Frolian Saludar in June.

Jimmy Chaichotchuang who is the leading IBF promoter in Asia, said “Roenrong vs. Arroyo will be ‘The Fight of the Titans’ which will feature two Olympians who will be going toe-to-toe for the IBF world flyweight title. Both Thailand and Puerto Rico are great boxing nations and I am sure Ruenroeng vs. Arroyo will be an outstanding world title contest. At this time Amnat is Thailand’s only world boxing champion.

“I would like to thank the former Deputy Prime Minster of Thailand, Mr Suwat Lipatapanlop who has supported this IBF world title bout being held in Thailand. I would like to invite boxing fans to Thailand to be at ringside to see Ruenroeng vs. Arroyo and enjoy the land of smiles.”