By Dennis Principe

FORMER two-time world title challenger Bernabe Concepcion of the Philippines continues his comeback bid by scoring a second round stoppage opposite Juma Fundi of Tanzania Friday night at the Cuneta Astrodome in Pasay City.

After a probing opening round, Concepcion unleashed a strong right straight to Fundi's face that instantly floored the Tanzanian.

Fundi was able to stand up at eight but was on wobbly legs, forcing referee Danrex Tapdasan to wave off the match at :56 of the second round.

With the win, Concepcion earned for him the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) Oriental superbantamweight crown.

"I feel good and light as a superbantamweight. There are struggles in trying to make the weight but overall I feel at home at 122," said Concepcion.

Concepcion's manager Ryan Gabriel said they are looking at pitting the Catanduanes native fighter against a top-tier opponent, possibly against former world title challenger Chris Avalos this October.

"There are ongoing talks with the Avalos camp but we're also seriously considering a  bout in the United States," said Gabriel.

It was Concepcion's third straight fight since returning to the superbantamweight class.

Exactly a year ago Concepcion suffered a nasty cut on his eye and settled for a draw against compatriot Eden Sonsona in Mandaluyong City.

Concepcion, 27, scored a second round stoppage versus Rasmanudin of Indonesia last January in Camarines Sur before facing Fundi.

Concepcion twice vied for the featherweight championship, losing to Steven Luevano via disqualification in 2009 before being stopped in the second round by Juan Manuel Lopez of Puerto Rico in 2010.

He also suffered a humiliating 7th round TKO loss to former world champion Mikey Garcia last March 2012.

Concepcion's latest win improves his record to 34-6-2, 20 by knockout while Fundi drops to 27-13-3, 11 by KO's.