Career
Early career
On May 8, 2001, after building an undefeated record of 11-0, Gabi fought for the minor World Boxing Federation (WBF) super flyweight title against the then holder of the title, Samson Dutch Boy Gym (40-0) of Thailand. Gabi suffered his first loss as a professional, losing on points to Dutch Boy Gym, who later retired undefeated with a record of 43-0. After two wins following his loss to Dutch Boy Gym, he suffered yet another setback when he faced another undefeated Thai, Peesaddaeng Kiatsakthanee (11-0), whom he lost to by unanimous decision (UD) for the latter"s WBC Asian Boxing Council Super Flyweight title.
The result of the fight was just the same, Gabi defeated Barcelona by Territorial Decoration through 5 rounds, after an accidental headbutt caused the fight to be stopped.
First and Last World Title shot
On March 3, 2006, in Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, California, in Gabi"s second fight in the United States, he got his first (and last) shot at a world title. In an effort to help his fellow friend and fellow Filipino boxer Nonito Donaire prepare to fight Darchinyan, Gabi gave advice that the young fighter acknowledged after the bout.
Donaire said "Gabi taught me a little bit and told me what this guy (Darchinyan) did and he helped out a lot for this fight". The Prince"s Farewell
Mares, who was undefeated coming into the bout with 15 wins and 0 losses, stopped Gabi in his tracks in just two rounds.
Gabi later retired from the sport following the loss.
On August 17, 2007 Gabi was ordered arrested for breaching a contract with Cotabato Vice Governor, Emmanuel Piñol. Management and Training Corporation Judge Antonina Escovilla issued the warrant of arrest based on the complaint of Piñol who sought P4.8 million from Gabi.