Casimero faces alleged sexual abuse complaint

WBO bantamweight champion John Riel Casimero is facing a controversy while preparing for a title defense – a sexual abuse complaint.

Casimero was accused of acts of lasciviousness in violation of R.A. 7610 or Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

A complaint was filed Feb. 11 through the Women and Children Protection Desk in Taguig City as the Filipino champion allegedly made inappropriate physical contact to a 17-year-old minor in a hotel room on June 7, 2021.

Casimero is currently training in the United States for his title defense against English challenger Paul Butler on April 22 in Liverpool, England.

The WBO and Probellum, the match promoter, have yet to make a comment or decision on the possible impact of the issue.

Casimero has denied the accusations and vowed to clear his name.

Casimero’s brother and trainer Jayson said the complaint was “fabricated.”

Should Casimero fail to show up again against Butler, the WBO will strip him of the belt.

The Ormoc City native boxer was initially scheduled to face Butler last November but suddenly suffered from viral gastritis.

The WBO approved to postpone the match after Casimero’s camp provided the required medical records, certificates, among others, for proof.

Casimero last saw action on Aug. 14, a month after the alleged incident happened, with a split decision win against Cuban foe Guillermo Rigondeaux to defend his WBO bantamweight title for the second time.