Charlton Malajika, the charismatic bantamweight, takes a serious step up in competition when he fights experienced Froilan “The Sniper” Saludar of the Philippines at Emperors Palace on October 4.
Saludar is a 46-fight veteran, having once contested the WBO championship, making him easily the most experienced fighter the South African will have fought. But such has been Malajika’s rise, Golden Gloves has confidence that he will have the beating of the tough veteran.
Malajika’s last four bouts – all wins – saw him beat opponents with a combined record of 29-3-2, giving some indication of his rich promise.
But Saludar won’t be easy. He’s boxed all over the world, gone the distance with Andrew Maloney and proven a tough night out for countless opponents.
A compelling and enduring figure in Philippine boxing, Saludar has forged a career defined by both explosive power and resilience. A professional since 2009, his journey has seen him climb the ranks, win regional titles, and face some of the sport’s toughest opponents, all while showcasing the kind of grit that has made him a fan favourite.
Born in Polomolok, South Cotabato, Saludar debuted with a blistering knockout victory and quickly earned his nickname “The Sniper” for his precise and concussive punching.
He began his career with a remarkable undefeated streak, including a series of quick knockouts that announced his arrival as a serious contender. This early success earned him multiple youth and regional titles, including the WBO Asia Pacific Youth and WBO Youth Flyweight titles, solidifying his status as one of the Philippines’ most promising fighters.
The defining narrative of Saludar’s career has been his willingness to test himself against top-tier competition, often on foreign soil.
One of his first major tests came in 2013 when he faced Puerto Rican contender McWilliams Arroyo. The fight was a tough lesson as Arroyo handed Saludar his first professional loss. However, it was a turning point that set the stage for Saludar to continue challenging himself.
He would later face other formidable opponents, including Japanese stars Sho Kimura and Takuma Inoue, both of whom added chapters to his career. His 2018 bout against Kimura for the WBO world title was a high-stakes affair that, despite a loss, demonstrated his courage at the highest level of the sport.
In recent years, Saludar has continued to compete in a series of significant matches. His 2023 bout against former WBC bantamweight champion Luis Nery, in Mexico, was a testament to his fighting spirit, as he took on a heavy favourite in a difficult environment. While he did not win, his willingness to step into the ring with a fighter of Nery’s calibre reaffirmed his reputation.
He followed up that performance with a significant victory over the previously undefeated Williams Flores in Dubai, claiming the WBA International bantamweight title by unanimous decision and showcasing his veteran savvy and tactical brilliance.
With a record of 37 wins, eight losses, and one draw, including 26 knockouts, Saludar’s career is a compelling story of a veteran fighter who has consistently met challenges head-on. His journey is a reflection of a true boxer’s path: overcoming setbacks, adapting to new challenges, and forever striving for greatness.
Malajika, for all his promise, has been warned.
