 On December 2, 1995, he traveled to Thailand and won the World Boxing Association strawweight title by close split decision over undefeated Thai champion Chana Porpaoin, who was 9-0 in title fights.In 1996, he defended his title three times including a third round knockout over future champion Kermin Guardia, a decision win over former champion Eric Chavez, and an eighth round knockout over undefeated prospect Takashi Shiohama.He had one bout in 1997, an eleventh round knockout over undefeated future interim champion Songkram Porpaoin (twin brother of Chana), for his fourth title defense.