INTERNATIONAL Boxing Federation (IBF) light flyweight champion Johnriel Casimero will defend his title against mandatory challenger Panamanian Luis Alberto “Pan Blanco” Rios on March 16, in Panama.

Promoter Sammy Gello-ani confirmed on Wednesday that Panama expressed interest to host the fight. He said that not even one of the Philippines’ giant TV networks expressed interest on the bout so it is best to bring it to Panama.

Gello-ani is confident that Casimero would prevail despite Rios’ hometown advantage.

Casimero won his IBF title after beating Argentine Luis Lazarte in Argentina in February last year. He then defended it successfully against Mexican challenger Pedro Guevarain in Mexico in August.

“If we did it twice in different venues, I’m sure Johnriel can still retain his title. He is in tough condition and his skills are improving. But I told him not to underestimate his opponent,” Gello-ani said.