Jhack Tepora was itching to get back in the ring. ;

After finally returning to action last month, Tepora notched a knockout victory. Now he hopes another win would put him in world title contention.

Tepora, who resides in Cebu City in the Philippines, knocked out journeyman Richard Betos in the second round on April 26 in General Santos City. The knockout victory over Betos was Tepora’s first fight since December 2019, when he was knocked out in the opening round from a left hook to the body by Oscar Escandon. 

The 27-year-old (24-1, 18 knockouts) dropped Betos once in round one and once more in round two, prompting referee Rollylex Orosio to stop the fight at 2:09.

Promoter Shane Shapiro believes Tepora could land a significant fight against one of the top junior lightweights in boxing today. 

“This was the perfect comeback fight for Jhack after nearly three years outside of the ring,” Shapiro told BoxingScene in a recent interview. “After one more fight, I believe he will be in position to fight anyone at 130 pounds. With (manager) Sean Gibbons leading the way, the future for Jhack Tepora is as bright as ever.”

Tepora also has knockout victories over fringe featherweight contenders Lusanda Komanisi and Edivaldo Ortega. 

There is a possibility Tepora could return to action as early as July.

Betos, who resides in Butuan City in the Philippines, drops to 21-27-2, 8 KOs. The 35-year-old has lost 19 of his last 20 fights.

Promoter of the card was Jim Claude Manangquil.

Francisco A. Salazar has written for BoxingScene since September 2012 and has covered boxing in Southern California and abroad since 2000. Francisco also covers boxing for the Ventura County (California) Star newspaper. He can be reached by email at santio89@yahoo.com or on Twitter at FSalazarBoxing