One-time world-title challenger Tewa Kiram of Thailand successfully moved up in weight, outclassing game compatriot Chaloemporn Sawatsuk, dropping and decisioning him to capture the vacant WBA Asia light heavyweight title on Saturday at the popular Suamlum Night Bazaar in Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand.

From the start, the taller Kiram (44-1, 31 KO's) worked effectively with his jab and combinations at a distance, scoring the initial chapters.

But half way through the rumble, the coming-forward, heavy-handed Sawatsuk began to outland Kiram, forcing him into defensive maneuvers.

However, a positive, timely reaction from Kiram – who is handled by legendary Thai promoter Niwat Laosuwanwat –  made him retake command of the actions, counter-punching the stockier veteran and dominating him.

The climax of the war unfolded in the exciting chapter nine when a crushing left uppercut thrown by Kiram, followed by a devastating right cross rip into Sawatsuk's chin, sending him spiraling like a twister to the blue canvas and landing dizzy on his belly.

The brave and strong Sawatsuk made it back on his feet, barely beating the count of Thailand's top referee Pinit Prayadsab, completing the ninth and subsequently ending the fight standing.

Scores were unanimous for the 28-year-old Kiram, the same warrior who two years ago battled now retired Argentinian star Lucas Matthysse for the WBA welterweight world strap.

Now as a light heavyweight, Kiram looks forward to defending his new belt in fights waiting to unfold in 2021.

In a supporting bout, veteran Filipino super bantamweight Joven "JJ" Jorda from the Philippine sun-bath paradise island of Leyte came back into fighting action, outboxing Thai gladiator Jaeprim Tiger for a non-title unanimous decision win.

The more experienced Jorda made good use of his ring smarts, superior skills and southpaw stance to confuse the game Thai warrior who tried to control JJ, but ultimately failed in that pursuit.

At the end, tallies were all three for the 48-fight veteran Jorda who got his hand risen by world-class third man Chalerm Prayadsab.

The entertaining televised fight show in Bangkok, was a production of veteran Thai promoter Niwat Laosuwanwat of Galaxy boxing in association with The Fighter World Boxing.

The author Carlos Costa can be reached at carlos512@hotmail.com and whatsapp +639184538152.