Jason Moloney is hunting a third world title shot after an emphatic victory over highly-rated Filipino Aston Palicte to secure the WBO international bantamweight title.
The Victorian demolished Palicte with a TKO in the third round in Melbourne on Sunday, declaring the fight one of the "best moments" of his life.
The 31-year-old delivered a right-hand bomb to his rival, who left himself open as he tried to hurt the Australian with an uppercut.
Palicte climbed off the canvas to continue but the fight was called off with 25 seconds remaining in the third round.
The result extended Moloney's record to 24-2 (19KO) and positions him for another crack at a world title.
As well as the vacant WBO international bantamweight belt Moloney retained the WBC Silver bantamweight title.
Moloney has had two previous world title shots, losing a split decision in October, 2018 to then IBF champion Emmanuel Rodriguez.
In 2020 he took on WBA and IBF champion Naoya Inoue and lost by a seventh-round knockout but has won three straight since.
But the Australian said he was ready to go again, calling out Brit Paul Butler, who is the new WBO bantamweight champion.
"I want Paul Butler next," Moloney said after rushing into the crowd to embrace legendary promoter Bob Arum.
"I'm so happy to walk away with a win, he's a hell of a fighter.
"A world title is coming next ... I don't think any bantamweight in the world can handle my pressure."
