Loreto was defending his IBO Junior flyweight title which he won over Joyi in Monaco last year via KO in the third round.
In the opening round, Loreto landed a power right hook followed up by a left uppercut midway to the round, sending the South African ex-champion to the canvas for the count.
Loreto, who was still recuperating from his recent surgery said he cried before the start of the fight knowing that he couldn’t last six rounds because of his state of health.
“I was sorry for myself because I did not have enough preparation for the fight but I prayed to God to give me strength and help me retain my title for the sake of my young son,” Loreto said.
“I know he was prepared and since I did not have enough training I thought I would not be able to last six rounds with Joyi, especially if he hit me in the midsection,” Loreto added.
Loreto, who is a southpaw was born in Davao City in the Philippines and is being promoted by Sonshine Sports Management, a Davao City-based sports promotions firm.
The win was third straight for Loreto since losing to Benezer Alolod via a technical decision in 2013. The win also opens great opportunities for Loreto in his search for lucrative title fights starting later this year.
Joyi, a former IBF minimum weight champion has been ranked by The Ring as the number one boxer in his division.
With his loss to Loreto for the second time, Joyi’s career record dropped to 25-3-0, 17 KOs.
