Arnel Baconaje

Arnel Baconaje

The Silencer

Lightweight, 135 lbs (61 kg)

Age :

28


Height :

169

cm


Stance :

Orthodox


Region :

San Rafael , Iloilo


Country :

Philippines


Record : PRO DEBUT


Record :

14

Wins

(

11

KO)

/

5

Loss

/

0

Draws

The Philippines man known as “The Silencer” is without doubt one of the better technical stylists from that country. He has scored 15 wins against some top opposition, and he managed to put 11 of those victims to sleep. So you don’t need to ask why the ring name !

Arnel Baconaje is high caliber in the 126-130lb weight class, and it would be accurate to say, he would start a solid favourite to win this match at those weights.

But he moves to 135lb here – and he also moves to Dinh Hong Quan’s domain !

So he gives away size, height and reach here – and that is where this bout becomes a real 50/50 proposition.

The claims are that Dinh Hong Quan will be a vastly improved fighter for this, and he will need to be, as Baconaje represents a significant step up on the less experienced Jules Victoriano, and that was an extremely close contest.

Arnel Baconaje

In VSP Promotions

Arnel Baconaje

In the news

VENGEANCE HAS A NEW NAME
March 16, 2024

VENGEANCE HAS A NEW NAME

Arnel Baconaje "The Silencer" has been one of the Philippines' outstanding boxers of recent years, and will get the opportunity to take his talents to an international stage later this month.
The Silencer will meet the man that many regard as the best prospect in Botswana - Steven Bagwasi. 
This boxing prodigy has a 9-1 record, and is touted as a future world star by those in the know.
But Arnel Baconaje is not one for reputations, and whilst respectful of his quality opponent, is certainly not daunted. The RP National champ sees a spot for himself on the world stage, and knows that an emphatic win over a star like Bagwasi will cement his position. 
Baconaje has been the victim of some horrible decisions in the last couple of years, so on the road against Steven Bagwasi, he will leave nothing to chance.
"I know I have to hurt him to get his respect. 
This is my first time to fight an African, so I'm very excited. Tell him the Silencer is coming!"
Vengeance has a new name.

RUMBLE IN THE OKAVANGO 
Maun National Stadium Botswana 
Saturday March 30th 
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
PHILIPPINES SET FOR AN AFRICAN SAFARI
March 10, 2024

PHILIPPINES SET FOR AN AFRICAN SAFARI

Three weeks out and no signs of nerves, the Elorde team of Mark John Yap, Arnel Baconaje, JonJon Estrada and Jetro Pabustan (trainer) discuss articles of war for the RUMBLE IN THE OKAVANGO on March 30th. 
The event will match many of Africa and Asia's best boxers against one another in Maun, Botswana - a location that is the gateway to the iconic Okavango Delta. 
All three pinoy have significant tasks ahead.
JonJon Estrada takes on South African champion Jeff Magagane in the featherweight class.
Arnel Baconaje meets Steven Bagwasi, arguably the best boxer P4P in Botswana. 
Mark John Yap appears in the main event - a WBF International title match against local star Moabi Ngaka. 
The three Philippines 🇵🇭 boxers will be part of an Asian Team that includes China 🇨🇳, India 🇮🇳 and Vietnam 🇻🇳. 

#rumbleintheokavango #elordetv #vspboxing #Webthethao #VSPPromotions #elordegym #elorde
"BACONAJE WILL THINK HE'S IN WITH A LION"
March 2, 2024

"BACONAJE WILL THINK HE'S IN WITH A LION"

Take that sucker !
Steven Bagwasi confirms his status as one of, if not the, hottest properties in Botswana boxing, handing out another one sided beating.
Bagwasi will face Philippines super featherweight champion Arnel Baconaje at Maun Stadium on March 30th, and he is looking forward to the task with laser focus. 
The boxer from Mahalapye was on the sidelines in 2023, but prior, had built an imposing 9-1 record. His lone loss was way back in 2018 by way of points to South Africa's champion Ayanda Nkosi (who was also WBF World Champion) 
Many in Africa have a huge opinion of Steven Bagwasi, and likewise, he is a boxer with self belief. 
"I will take Arnel Baconaje on a wild safari. When we are done, he will be thinking he is surrounded by lions. I am really looking forward to this one."

RUMBLE IN THE OKAVANGO 
Maun National Stadium Botswana, Africa 
Saturday March 30th 

#rumbleintheokavango #elordetv #vspboxing #Webthethao #VSPPromotions #elordegym #elorde
BACONAJE TO TAKE ON AFRICAN STAR
February 28, 2024

BACONAJE TO TAKE ON AFRICAN STAR

Classy Elorde boxer Arnel Baconaje will head to Botswana next month as part of a formidable Asian Team that will do battle with African nations. 
"The Silencer" will take on Steven Bagwasi - a boxer that many rate as one of the most outstanding talents in Botswana. 
Bagwasi has 8 wins on his resume, with only one loss, which was back in 2018 to South Africa's national champion Ayanda Nkosi.
But to tame a lion like Bagwasi, plenty of hard work and lots of skill will be required, and Arnel Baconaje "The Silencer" was working on both today. Mixing it up with Arnel in sparring at Elorde was Japanese visitor Reito Takahashi, a highly promising 135lb fighter.

#rumbleintheokavango #elordetv #vspboxing #Webthethao #VSPPromotions #elordegym #elorde
THERE AIN'T NO STOPPING NOW !!
December 18, 2023

THERE AIN'T NO STOPPING NOW !!

It's fight day !
UNSTOPPABLE Ultimate Knockout Challenge 
Live from the Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque 
Action starts at 1pm.
AND YOU COULDN'T EVEN HEAR A PIN DROP
December 13, 2023

AND YOU COULDN'T EVEN HEAR A PIN DROP

That is the sound of silence !
Equal parts stealthy and lethal, one of the Philippines' best fight technicians Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje returns to the ring this coming Monday. 
Baconaje is part of a top notch UNSTOPPABLE fight card to be held at the Elorde Sports Centre in Parañaque Manila. 
And expect the champ to be in sparkling and devastating form - he has just recently returned from fight camp in Baguio where he helped prepare Marlon Tapales for his impending clash with "the Monster" Naoya Inoue. 
Arnel Baconaje "The Silencer" will take on 18 fight winner JR Magboo, amongst a KILLER line up that includes "Wonder Boy" Carl Jammes Martin, "Magic Mike" Plania, "the Wolverine" JonJon Estrada, Jhon Gemino, Esneth Domingo, Michael Bravo, Presco Carcosia and "the Journey Man" Mark John SNAP SNAP Yap - just to name a few.
This is the biggest boxing show in Manila this year, and a great way for fight fans to celebrate 2023, so if you're local, make sure you come and see some of these stars perform live.
Everyone is welcome. 

UNSTOPPABLE Ultimate Knockout Challenge 
Flash Grand Ballroom Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila 
Monday December 18th
NAKANO AND BACONAJE PICTURE PERFECT
August 3, 2023

NAKANO AND BACONAJE PICTURE PERFECT

Unbeaten Japanese star Mikito Nakano and Philippines national champ were both within the 130lb limit at today's weigh in.

The two fighters will box 8 rounds tomorrow night in Korakuen Hall Tokyo.

Nakano has a formidable reputation, being unbeaten in 7 fights, resolving 6 of those with thudding stoppages.

Arnel  Baconaje "The Silencer" represents the Japanese power puncher's most significant test so far, and he will be stepping into the ring confident of handling anything that Nakano has to offer.

WILL THIS MAN PUT AN END TO SLAIN PINOY ?
August 3, 2023

WILL THIS MAN PUT AN END TO SLAIN PINOY ?

This is the man that stands in the way of emerging Japanese star Mikito Nakano maintaining a perfect kill rate of pinoys on his unblemished fight record.

Arnel  Baconaje "The Silencer" meets Nakano next Tuesday night at the iconic Korakuen Hall, and flew out from Manila today with coach Toto Laurente.

Mikito Nakano boasts a record of 7-0 with 6 knockouts, and most tellingly, he has been as brutal as he has been flawless with his pinoy body count.

Arvin Yurong, KJ Natuplag, Juanito Paredes and Lorenz Ladrada  - all quality boxers in their own right, but were slain and dispatched in body bags at the hands of the ruthless Japanese technician.

But Arnel Baconaje is cut from different cloth, and having sparred numerous top opponents such as Naoya Inoue in Japan previously, he is better equipped than his predecessors for the impending battle.

The Silencer's most recent outing was a RP title win over Jhon Gemino in May, so he will be heading to Japan confident that Nakano's dominance over pinoy fighters will be tested to the limit next Saturday.

BACONAJE DOMINANT IN RP NATIONAL TITLE
May 13, 2023

BACONAJE DOMINANT IN RP NATIONAL TITLE

Iloilo native Arnel Baconaje put on an exemplary boxing display to secure the Philippines super featherweight belt just moments ago.

Baconaje dominated early, but was part on alert by a dangerous and resurgent Jhon Gemino in rounds 4-6. Gemino showed good head movement and landed some quality shots, but Baconaje remained composed.

Arnel Baconaje controlled the action well in the second half, relentlessly jabbing, shoulder rolling defense, and answering Gemino with straight rights and uppercut.

The fitness and resilience of both boxers was excellent, but in the end, it was the well executed game plan of perfect distance and timed counters that proved the deciding factor for the judges.

116-112  116-112  117-111

Video: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/989702288871703/

GUARANTEED TO STEAL THE SHOW AT OKADA
May 6, 2023

GUARANTEED TO STEAL THE SHOW AT OKADA

Surely a match made in heaven - Arnel  Baconaje "The Silencer" has his eyes set on the RP National belt, but who better than "The Disaster" Jhon Gemino to thwart those ambitions ?

Baconaje v Gemino has been added to what is already a huge undercard to the Casimero bout at the Okada Casino on May 13th, and realistically, could really catch fire and become the fight of the night !

Arnel Baconaje has proved to be one of the Philippines classiest boxers in recent years, and is desperate to show that he is is the best super featherweight on the local scene.

The Disaster shapes as a bit of an unknown quantity, as despite three losses at his most recent, they were narrow points decisions against quality international opposition.

Jhon Gemino is world class when he is at best, having previously knocked out unbeaten Americans Toka Clary and Arnold Alejandro. The Parañaque based fighter also gave world champion Emanuel Navarrete a hell fight before being ultimately stopped in a great clash.

And be at his best he will need to be, as Arnel Baconaje is intent on wearing the Philippines national belt next Saturday  !

ALL ROADS LEAD TO PANGASINAN MARCH 30TH
February 24, 2023

ALL ROADS LEAD TO PANGASINAN MARCH 30TH

ALL ROADS LEAD TO PANGASINAN MARCH 30TH


BACONAJE v CARCOSIA THIS SUNDAY
February 23, 2023

BACONAJE v CARCOSIA THIS SUNDAY

Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje goes to war with Presco "the Iceman" Carcosia in General Santos City for the RP National Super Featherweight title.

Lagao Gym, General Santos City

Sunday February 26th

THE BIG FIGHTS ARE COMING YOUR WAY
February 17, 2023

THE BIG FIGHTS ARE COMING YOUR WAY

Friday training at Elorde Southbox , and there were three really good ones in the ring today !

King's Warrior Charly Suarez, MMA prospect Ian Batoto, and the Silencer Arnel Baconaje engaged in light sparring for upcoming bouts.

Baconaje heads to GenSan this week for a crack at the Philippines national belt on Sunday February 26th.

Charly Suarez has a big assignment if his own. He heads to Sydney very soon, where he will challenge Aussie #1 Paul Fleming for four major belts. A win places Suarez in the world top 10 with three of those, and perhaps makes him mandatory for both IBF and IBO world titles.

Exciting fights coming up !

BACONAJE SET TO SILENCE GEN SAN
February 17, 2023

BACONAJE SET TO SILENCE GEN SAN

Arnel Baconaje takes the show on the road, when he heads to General Santos City for a national title bid on Sunday February 26th.

"The Silencer" faces top local prospect Presco Carcosia (10-2) for the Philippines national super featherweight title. Success guarantees the winner a top 10 ranking with the OPBF.

Arnel Baconaje has been in great form, having competed recently in Vietnam in December 2022.

Despite competing above his weight class, the pinoy turned in a fantastic performance in his bid for the IBF Asia Lightweight title.

In a match that could have gone either way, Baconaje lost narrowly on points on two cards, and was given a draw on another. It was an epic contest, and a valiant effort by Vietnam's Dinh Hong Quân, but there were many in attendance that thought the win should have gone to The Silencer.

You can watch the match here and judge for yourselves.  It is the brand of Arnel Baconaje action that will be heading to GenSan next week and winning a national title !

BACONAJE LOOKS TO BECOME TOP DOG
February 15, 2023

BACONAJE LOOKS TO BECOME TOP DOG

Arnel Baconaje was recently in Vietnam at VSP Gym prepping for a December match with Vietnam  champ Dinh Hong Quân.

That was a bout in Ho Tram for the IBF Asia Lightweight title, and despite the match being above his usual weight class, Baconaje and Quân fought an extremely close battle.

The Philippines man revered as "The Silencer" returns to the ring in General Santos City (the former home of Manny Pacquiao) on Sunday February 26th. And this time, it is another big fight.

Baconaje takes on the "the Iceman" Presco Carcosia (10-2 9KO) for the Philippines national championship at Super Featherweight.

The weight class will be more favorable this time, but he faces a seriously skilled and fast opponent in Carcosia, so it should be a great main event.

VSP are big admirers of Arnel Baconaje, who always prepares well and turns in excitement filled performances, so we wish him luck in pursuit of the Philippines title next Sunday.

ANOTHER YEAR  -  ANOTHER JOURNEY
January 15, 2023

ANOTHER YEAR - ANOTHER JOURNEY

Was it ever in doubt ?  

YAP IS BACK !

Mark John Yap makes his eagerly awaited ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 against former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner Leonardo Doronio.

Yap has the reputation as one of the Philippines' best internationally performed boxers of recent years, thus earning him The Journey Man tag, and he will be looking to embark his 2023 trip with a great performance at home.

The former bantamweight star has only recently made the super featherweight division his new home, yet will challenge Doronio at Lightweight, such is the difficulty in getting the Mindanao product decent competition in a season opener.

Mark John Yap produced a classy performance against Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title, and endorsed that effort with an impressive win over Papua New Guinea's best Junior Kauko Raka.

Yap then ventured to Vietnam to compete at Fortunes of War, and looked good in a fast paced short format exhibition event.

Leonardo Doronio is a very experienced boxer, who will hold the advantage of being the slightly larger man. He posted good wins over Bryan Macamay and Jimmy Borbon, before a points loss to outstanding pinoy Arnel Baconaje.  He will prove to be a great measure of where Mark John Yap is early in his 2023 adventure.

But the word is out - Yap is back !  

January 30th marks the start of a new journey.

UKC REVOLUTION 2023

Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila

Monday January 30th

FULL FIGHT  - Dinh Hong Quân vs Arnel Baconaje
December 18, 2022

FULL FIGHT - Dinh Hong Quân vs Arnel Baconaje

Another torrid test for Vietnam Lightweight champion Quân, who had to dig deep after having issues making weight.

Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje provided constant pressure with his accuracy and power shots, which were definitely not accurately reflected on the scorecards.

IT'S FIGHT DAY AT THE GRAND HO TRAM  !!
December 10, 2022

IT'S FIGHT DAY AT THE GRAND HO TRAM !!

Main event boys Dinh Hong Quân and Arnel Baconaje ready to tear up the Ho Tram Strip.

Philippines Baconaje has vowed to return home with the IBF Asia title.

We are sure Vietnam's champ has other ideas !

THE SILENCER MAKES WEIGHT FOR IBF CLASH
December 9, 2022

THE SILENCER MAKES WEIGHT FOR IBF CLASH

Arnel Baconaje   61.2kg  (Philippines)

Vietnam's Dinh Hong Quân weighed in heavy at 62.6kg, so is unable to defend the IBF Asia belt.

The match will still prove to be a significant task for Baconaje, who must defeat Quân if he wants to  be crowned champion.

THREE BELTS ON THE LINE AT FORTUNES OF WAR BOXING EVENT IN VUNG TAU
December 8, 2022

THREE BELTS ON THE LINE AT FORTUNES OF WAR BOXING EVENT IN VUNG TAU

*story courtesy Vietnam News

In his 12th pro match, IBF Asia lightweight champion Đinh Hồng Quân will face Arnel Baconaje of the Philippines over 12 rounds. It is his second time defending his belt. Last July, he defeated Jules Victoriano of the Philippines unanimously.

HÀ NỘI — A blockbuster "Fortunes of War" boxing event will bring together Asia's best fighters in 12 bouts, including three title matches, sanctioned by the IBF and WBO on December 10 at The Grand Hồ Tràm Strip, Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu Province.

In his 12th pro match, IBF Asia lightweight champion Đinh Hồng Quân will face Arnel Baconaje of the Philippines over 12 rounds. It is his second time defending his belt. Last July, he defeated Jules Victoriano of the Philippines unanimously.

The rising Vietnamese star does have a size advantage. Quân has recorded nine wins (4KOs), one draw and one loss (KO).

At 24, 'Black Eagle' Quân is younger than his rival and stands at No 189 in the world, 43 places higher than Baconaje.

However, 'The Silencer' Baconaje has bowled over some of the Philippines' biggest and best stars. Of his 15 wins, 11 came by knockout. The 29-year-old has suffered five losses, three by knockout.

Baconaje has thoroughly prepared by training with the famous fighter "Japanese monster" Naoya Inoue.

Quân completed a training camp in South Korea before having an intensive training camp with legendary Manny Pacquiao in the Philippines.

"I feel in way better shape, my camp has been good, and being able to train with a legend like Manny Pacquiao has helped me a lot," said Quân.

"He is a model of hard work to succeed in boxing, as well as an example of rising up in boxing. Professionally, I learn, practise and improve my abilities to prepare well for the upcoming matches. I won't let people down."

Quân said that Pacquiao advised him a lot. In particular, the most memorable is the practice motto "fight hard, complete the exercises and always have faith".

"Everybody will see a far better Đinh Hồng Quân this time, and I already know I will beat Arnel Baconaje. I am excited about it. I am very happy to have the challenge of stopping a top fighter like Baconaje in front of my home country," he said.

The second title match is between IBF Asia super-featherweight Charly Suarez of the Philippines and Indonesian Defry Palulu in a 12-round bout.

Their match was scheduled in March 2020 but was cancelled due to the pandemic.

Suarez is a three-time SEA Games champion who won the 2014 Asian Games silver. He turned pro in 2019 and impressed the community with 13 wins with seven KOs.

Suarez has stayed busy this year as he fought for the WBA Asia title in March and defended it twice in July and October. He also won the Philippines national title in the process.

Palulu is currently No 1 in his country. He places 162 in the world with a record of 25 wins, two draws and two losses. He took the IBO Asia Pacific and WBC Asian Boxing Council super-featherweight belts in 2019.

"The Unseen Hammer" is in career-best shape and has been working on angles and power shots to halt the meteoric rise of Suarez.

"That is our plan. Team Palulu have worked very hard for this, and we will not let this opportunity slip," he said on vsppromotions.com.

"Suarez does not have the power to hurt me, or even hold me off. But I know when I catch him, he will go down. Indonesia will have a new champion on December 10."

The third title match is between South Korean Song Chan Ho and Thai Anusong Thonglueang, who will defend his WBO Oriental Youth super-lightweight belt across 10 rounds.

Song, 19, unbeaten in eight fights, is certainly living up to his "Purge Boy" ring name.

He is fast and has a high work rate, nice footwork, and works some clever angles. He is durable and is developing some power to go with his accurate hands.

Tàu City.

Thonglueang, 18, has already created media attention in Thailand, where he has put together 12 wins (9KOs) with only one loss in extra quick time. He is a dynamic all-action fighter and knows how to be effective inside the ropes.

Other matches with Vietnamese fighters are between Nguyễn Văn Hải vs Paisal Panjaitan of Indonesia in the lightweight class in four rounds; Phạm Minh Quân vs Mark John Yap of the Philippines in the super-featherweight in four rounds; Lê Hoàng Hiệp vs Jetro Pabustan of the Philippines in the super-bantamweight in four rounds and Thái Hoàng Huy vs JonJon Estrada of the Philippines in the featherweight in four rounds.

Fortunes of War is organised by Việt Nam's top boxing units of VSP Promotions and Cocky Buffalo with support from Vietcontent, the leading sports content in Việt Nam. VNS

Why does Vietnamese Boxing really need international events at home like Fortunes of War?
December 7, 2022

Why does Vietnamese Boxing really need international events at home like Fortunes of War?

NEWS FROM WEBTHETHAO

Professional boxing events in Vietnam began to rekindle in the period of 2015, when management units such as Vietnam Boxing Federation (VBF) or Ho Chi Minh City Boxing Federation. Ho Chi Minh City (HBF) organizes this form of competition, with the participation of famous boxers in the domestic amateur boxing village. After that, promotion companies began to appear with names like VSP Promotions, Cocky Buffalo, Saigon Sports Club, VBC, Trigger Boxing... continued to appear to bring more national elements. economic: events, title matches, friendlies.

However, it was not until 2018, when the promoters really embarked on a comprehensive approach, at this time, the challenge for the development of professional boxing began to really appear.

To be recognized at the professional level, competitions must be under the supervision of organizations capable of recognizing professional achievements around the world. This supervision is based on the rules - the rules of the game (regulations) are specified in the operating regulations of professional organizations such as WBC, WBO, WBA, IBF...

In Vietnam, the presence of these organizations is not much. Therefore, boxers have only one option: to conduct tours in countries with developed boxing backgrounds such as Thailand, the Philippines, Japan, Korea, ... to be recognized for their achievements. However, the issue of funding, training procedures - competing with Vietnamese boxers is not a simple problem, despite the participation of experienced promotion companies in the region.

As a result, promoters have opted for a more pragmatic approach: organizing events right in Vietnam. To do this, they need to contact to get the approval of professional organizations in the world, through sending professional teams, supervising the organization and competition of martial arts.

Since 2019, units like VSP Promotions have made their mark with a series of events such as Victory 8, VSP Pro,... bringing Vietnamese boxers to participate in professional matches at home, recognizing their achievements. in the international system, gradually removing barriers for boxers who want to pursue this path.

From professional events, title fights began to appear. Victory 8: Legend of Hoan Kiem with the title of WBA East Asia; events of IBF, WBO at The Grand Ho Tram Strip with champions Dinh Hong Quan, Song Chan Ho... and here comes Fortunes of War with 3 matches for WBO - IBF title in weight classes on 10th December.

Not only for boxers, bringing international events to Vietnam also creates opportunities for domestic professionals, namely management units, referees, supervisors, etc. exposure to professional environment according to world standards. From there, events in Vietnam will gradually move to international level - something we all want in the development of all sports.

Following the success of two title events in April and July, Fortunes of War witnessed the title defense of the IBF Asian champion -  "Black Hawk" Dinh Hong Quan  in his 11th fight. The fighter born in 1998 will face the boxer from the Philippines -  "Silent Assassin" Arnel Baconaje.

In addition to the defense of the IBF Asian lightweight title between Dinh Hong Quan and Arnel Baconjae, Charly Suarez - a three-time SEA Games gold medalist and silver medalist at ASIAD 2014 will welcome an opponent from Indonesia - Defry Palulu for the IBF title. Asian super-featherweight.

Previously, WBO Oriental champion from Korea - Song Chan Ho will face Thai boxer Anusong Thonglueang in his title defense match. The competition took place over 10 rounds in the super-lightweight division.

In addition to the three matches/defending of the IBF and WBO belts,  Fortunes Of War  also witnessed the return of Vietnamese boxing monument Nguyen Van Hai, promising fighters Le Hoang Hiep, Thai Hoang Huy or Pham Minh Quan before the competition. boxers from Indonesia and the Philippines.

List of matches at Fortunes of War on December 10:

Dinh Hong Quan (c) vs. Arnel Baconaje - IBF Asian lightweight title defense (12 rounds)

Charly Suarez vs. Defry Paululu - IBF Asian Super-featherweight Championship (12 rounds)

Nguyen Van Hai vs. Paisal Panjaitan - Lightweight (4 rounds)

Phan Minh Quan vs. Mark John Yap - Super-featherweight (4 rounds)

Song Chan Ho vs. Anusong Thonglueang - Defending the WBO Oriental Youth super-lightweight title (10 rounds)

Le Hoang Hiep vs. Jetro Pabustan - Super-bantamweight (4 rounds)

Thai Hoang Huy vs. JonJon Estrada - Featherweight (4 rounds)

ARNEL BACONAJE FOR IBF ASIA GLORY
December 6, 2022

ARNEL BACONAJE FOR IBF ASIA GLORY

Philippines' Arnel  Baconaje "The Silencer" is flexing up at media day at VSP Boxing Gym.

Baconaje will fight Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân for the IBFbelt at The Grand Ho Tram Resort in Vietnam this Saturday.

FORTUNES OF WAR DREAM TEAM
December 4, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR DREAM TEAM

Jetro Pabustan, Arnel Baconaje, Aljum Pelesio, Toto Laurente and JonJon Estrada are pictured at VSP Boxing Gym today with Mr. Sang Bum Kim.

Mr. Kim is the owner of Cocky Buffalo Gym  and is the head promoter for the Fortunes of War event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort next Saturday.

PINOYS HIT HO CHI MINH CITY VIETNAM
December 3, 2022

PINOYS HIT HO CHI MINH CITY VIETNAM

The Philippines team for Fortunes of War arrived at 1am last night and are now sleeping it off !

It is expected that they will head to VSP Boxing Gym later today for a light workout.

Keep you posted with updates.

FORTUNES OF WAR  - PHILIPPINES TEAM
December 2, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR - PHILIPPINES TEAM

The Philippines team head to Vietnam tonight in advance of the mammoth boxing event in Ho Tram next Saturday.

The pinoy squad is very likely the best to ever leave Philippines' shores, and where two of the team's fighters will challenge for IBF titles in the main events.

Assembled tonight at Ninoy Aquino Airport are :

Delfin Boholst (trainer), Thony Suarez (trainer), Charly Suarez, Arnel Baconaje, JonJon Estrada  Pederito Laurente (trainer), Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap.

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino

Saturday December 10

SUAREZ GOES SOUTH FOR IBF ASIA SHOWDOWN
November 29, 2022

SUAREZ GOES SOUTH FOR IBF ASIA SHOWDOWN

Charly Suarez will be heading to Vietnam this Friday for his first international test since turning professional. The King's Warrior will be going up against Indonesia’s best fighter Defry Palulu  - a boxer with a 25-2 record and a former WBC regional belt holder.

Palulu has been in great form since boxing resumed, winning four bouts since a pandemic enforced break. His team is confident that this awkward southpaw has recaptured his best and will be the first fighter to drop the Philippines champion Suarez.

Did we say SOUTHPAW  ?   Ugggh !

Never ones to falter on the side of preparation, Team Suarez have been working in sparring with many of the Philippines best southpaws.

And on that subject, they don't come much better than RoyRoy D'HAMMER Sumugat, who did some excellent preparation work with Charly Suarez last week.

Good luck champs !

CHARLY SUAREZ v DEFRY PALULU

12 rounds  IBF Asia Super Featherweight title

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam

Saturday December 10

Dinh Hong Quan was given the secret by Manny Pacquiao
November 25, 2022

Dinh Hong Quan was given the secret by Manny Pacquiao

Dinh Hong Quan (left) trains with legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao (centre) – Photo: NVCC

Share with Youth Online About his experience in scrims with superstar Manny Pacquiao, boxer Dinh Hong Quan said: “I am lucky to have met Pacquiao. He is a model of hard work to succeed in boxing, as well as an example of rising up in boxing. life.

Professionally, being trained with an expert boxer helps me to learn, practice and improve my abilities to prepare well for the upcoming matches. I won’t let people down.”

When asked about the secret he learned from the Filipino boxing legend, Hong Quan said that Pacquiao advised him a lot. In particular, the most memorable is the practice motto “fight hard, complete the exercises and always have faith”.

On December 10, Dinh Hong Quan will defend the IBF Asian lightweight championship, within the framework of the IBF WBO Title Matches “Fortunes of War” event.

Quan’s opponent will be Arnel Baconaje, a Filipino, born in 1988 and has a record of 15 victories, including 11 knockouts after 20 fights. Currently, Arnel also has a thorough preparation when training with the famous fighter “Japanese monster” Naoya Inoue.

(from article: Vietnam Posts)

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT CARD
November 25, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT CARD

Some of Asia's best fighters come together for an end of year celebration like mo other.  

Watch the action live from Vietnam  !

THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO

Saturday December 10

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN VIETNAM THIS YEAR !
November 24, 2022

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN VIETNAM THIS YEAR !

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN VIETNAM THIS YEAR !

This is the main event !

Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân goes toe to toe with the very lethal puncher from the Philippines  - Arnel Baconaje.

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS
November 19, 2022

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS

Vietnam is a hotbed of boxing talent, and there are many picturesque locations in that special country  to show case the best action matches to fight fans.

The Grand Ho Tram situated  in the southern beach area of Vung Tau is simply iconic, and as the name suggests, they have some very GRAND plans.

This beautiful coastal resort plans to be "THE PLACE" for boxing in Asia  - think of Vegas by the beach !

And yes again, they actually have an incredible Casino  (and a Greg Norman designed golf course too !)

The Grand Ho Tram have already staged two events this year, and on December 10, are going all out with the biggest sports event in Vietnam this year.

The Fortunes of War event brings together many of Asia's best fighters for the very first time, and will host three title matches sanctioned by the IBF and WBO.

The event will also embrace the fun side of boxing, and will avail three novice Vietnam prospects the opportunity to share the ring with top foreign professionals. These exhibition bouts will be fast and furious and held over 4 rounds - if they go that long!

Congratulations

to our friends at The Grand Ho Tram for being such great supporters of boxing, and for hosting the most iconic sports event in Vietnam this year.

A perfect way to end 2022 !

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort Vietnam

Saturday December 10

QUAN: "BACONAJE WON'T GO THE DISTANCE"
November 18, 2022

QUAN: "BACONAJE WON'T GO THE DISTANCE"

Vietnam's defending IBF Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quân is already in great shape for his impending clash with Arnel Baconaje, and has plans to make it an early night.

"I had to lose a lot of weight way too fast for my last fight with Jules Victoriano, and I must admit he was a very tough opponent. I feel in way better shape this time, my camp has been good, and being able to train with a legend like Manny Pacquiao has helped me a lot.

A lot of people say it was a very close fight with Philippines last time, and it was, but most did not know that I had no sparring before that match. Everybody will see a far better Dinh Hong Quân this time, and I already know that I will hurt Arnel Baconaje.

It's a very good match, I am excited for it. I am very happy to have the challenge of stopping a top fighter like Baconaje in front of my home country. "

Dinh Hong Quân v Arnel Baconaje

12 rounds  IBF Asia Lightweight title

THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM

Saturday December 10

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM
November 17, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM

Mark your calendars, this is rhe biggest sports event in Vietnam this year, and the perfect end to the year if you are a fight fan !

The Grand Ho Tram aims to become the boxing mecca, and have secured many of Asia's best boxers for the "Fortunes of War" event.

This iconic event, which is spearheaded by three titles fights, will be broadcast by Webthethao in Vietnam, and Elorde TV and Solar Sports in the Philippines.

THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM

Saturday December 10

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!
November 14, 2022

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

Saturday December 10   Fortunes of War !

VIETNAM v PHILIPPINES FOR THE IBF CROWN
November 14, 2022

VIETNAM v PHILIPPINES FOR THE IBF CROWN

Dinh Hong Quan is gaining the reputation as one of Vietnam's most improved and fearless fighters.

On December 10, the man revered as the Black Hawk, will defend his IBF title on home soil against one of Asia's best at 126-130lb - Philippines' very own Arnel Baconaje.

This will the third defense for the Vietnam champion, and admirably, he has taken on quality opposition each time. The Black Hawk originally won the IBF belt on foreign soil against the very experienced Korean Dong Hee Kim, dispatching his opponent with a showreel left hook !

Since then he has defended against emerging pinoy boxers Delmar Pellio and Jules Victoriano, both of whom enjoyed physical batlles with the Vietnam boxer.

Arnel Baconaje represents another rise in class for Quân, and there is no doubt that at 130, the Philippines man known as "The Silencer" would start an overwhelming betting favourite. But this battle will be at 135lb,  and will be held in Dinh Hong Quân's backyard.

It's Vietnam v Philippines  its Black Hawk v The Silencer  and its the IBF Asia title on the line !

Dinh Hong Quân v Arnel Baconaje

12 rounds  IBF Asia Lightweight title

THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM

Saturday December 10

THE SILENCER TO SHOOT BLACK HAWK DOWN !
November 10, 2022

THE SILENCER TO SHOOT BLACK HAWK DOWN !

Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje is Vietnam bound, and he has only one objective on his mind.

To defeat the man known as the "Black Hawk", Vietnam's Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan, and return to his native Philippines wearing his IBF belt.

Cocky Buffalo prospect Quan has successfully defended the IBF belt twice already, and whilst they have been hard fought bouts against quality pinoys, it is also fair to say that the young Vietnam boxer is still making technical improvements with each challenge.

He is also getting bigger and stronger.

But the Silencer has no interest in any of that !

As its equally fair to say that he is far more experienced boxer than the two previous opponents of Dinh Hong Quan, and is more definitely more skilful at landing meaningful punches. The Philippines boxer from Iloilo has landed 11 knockouts in his 15 wins.

This is a classic main event, where based on experience, the Philippines Arnel Banconaje is the man to beat and would start a solid favorite.

But you can't rule out the Black Hawk, as he just keeps improving and rising to each new challenge.

If you're a Vietnam fan and haven't seen Baconaje before, check out some of his bag work from late last week. Crisp and precise.

He will be looking to clip the wings of the Black Hawk on December 10.

Arnel Baconaje v Dinh Hong Quan

MAIN EVENT

12 rounds  IBF Asia Lightweight Championship

The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vung Tau Vietnam

Saturday December 10

THE BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES !!!
November 6, 2022

THE BEST OF THE PHILIPPINES !!!

Who said blondes have more fun ?

Pinoy power is heading to Vietnam.

And it's SMILE POWER!

We got Mark John Yap, Jetro Pabustan, Charly Suarez, Arnel Baconaje and da baddest of da baddest "the Wolverine" JonJon Estrada!!!!

THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP  VIETNAM

Saturday December 10th

"THE BOXING MECCA OF ASIA"
November 5, 2022

"THE BOXING MECCA OF ASIA"

The Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam has grand plans !

Saturday December 10  

Full fight card coming soon, but already signed :

Vietnam - Dinh Hong Quan

Philippines - Arnel Baconaje

Indonesia  - Defry Palulu

Philippines  - Charly Suarez

Uzbekistan  - Olimjon Nazarov

Vietnam  - Nguyễn Văn Hải

Indonesia  - Paisal Panjaitan

and will soon include top fighters from South Korea and Thailand.

This end of year festive event at The Grand Ho Tram wil also give young Vietnam hopefuls Phan Minh Quân, Le Hiep and Thai Hoang Huy the chance to share the ring with Philippines idols Mark John Yap, Jetro Pabustan and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada.

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE
November 1, 2022

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE

IBF Asia Lightweight title

LIVE FROM THE GRAND HO TRAM VIETNAM

Saturday December 10


DINH HONG QUAN TO FACE BACONAJE DEC 10
October 28, 2022

DINH HONG QUAN TO FACE BACONAJE DEC 10

Vietnam's Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan will face Philippines Arnel Baconaje at the Grand Ho Tram Strip for the IBF title on December 10. This will be as significant a main event as the country has ever seen, where incumbent champion Dinh Hong Quan (9-1) faces his sternest test to date against the skilful pinoy boxer.

The Vietnam rising star has the size advantage, yet Baconaje has bowled over some of the Philippines' biggest and best scoring, 11 knockouts in his 15 wins to date.This is a massive main event with both fighters having the genuine attributes to claim the IBF prize.

Dinh Hong Quan will join the Manny Pacquiao training camp in preparation for his December assignment, whilst Baconaje is currently in Japan working with pound for pound star Naoya Inoue. The match between Dinh Hong Quan and Arnel Baconaje will take place at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam on Saturday December 10th.

Fight card and ticket information coming soon!

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10
October 28, 2022

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10

Congratulations to the Philippines fighters that will be competing at the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam on Saturday December 10. Arnel Baconaje and Charly will contest IBF titles in two of the main event matches.

Baconaje will take on incumbent lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan, a Vietnam fighter that has recent history with pinoys Delmar Pellio and Jules Victoriano. Charly Suarez is expected to have a confirmed opponent soon.

BACONAJE TESTS ENGLAND IN AUSTRALIA
June 30, 2022

BACONAJE TESTS ENGLAND IN AUSTRALIA

*story courtesy of Yahoo! News

Arnel Baconaje will gun for his second straight win as he takes on Aussie prospect Jackson Jon England on Sept. 2, 2022 in Australia.

Baconaje beat journeyman Leonardo Doronio last March 12 in Parañaque City. He will be gunning for his first win overseas after losing to Yasutaka Ishimoto in Japan, Lingjie Xia in China and Ivan Kozlovsky in Russia.

The 24-year-old England is looking to bounce back after suffering a unanimous decision defeat at the hands of unbeaten Paul Fleming on March 23, 2022 in Sydney. The 28-year-old Baconaje is 15-5 with 11 knockouts, while England is 13-2 with eight knockouts.

Meanwhile, featherweight prospect Lorenz Ladrada locks horns with Aussie hard-hitter Dana Coolwell on July 2 in an eight-round contest at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Broadbeach, Queensland, Australia.

Ladrada is looking for his second straight win after beating Jason Buenaobra by unanimous decision in his last fight on Dec. 4 in Parañaque City.

This will be Labrada’s biggest fight to date and his first international fight.

Coolwell, a former Australian champion, wants to return to his winning ways after losing to Ender Luces in an International Boxing Federation Youth super featherweight fight last April 13 in Queensland. The 23-year-old Coolwell’s other loss is also via a split decision Jake Wyllie last year. The 25-year-old Ladrada is 11-2-1 with three knockouts, while Coolwell is 7-2 with five knockouts.

THE SILENCER HEADING DOWN UNDER
June 28, 2022

THE SILENCER HEADING DOWN UNDER

Big news breaking is that outstanding Philippines boxer Arnel Baconaje has secured a big fight in Australia on September 2nd.

The man known as "the Silencer" will take on gifted local Jackson Jon England who boasts a 13 and 2 record. England was responsible for perhaps the best fight seen in Australia this year, when narrowly outpointed by Paul Fleming for four major titles, including WBC, WBA and IBF belts.

The match in Perth on September 2nd gives Jackson Jon England a chance to avenge that controversial loss, but his task against Baconaje, who is among Philippines elite, will be daunting.

BACONAJE AND ESTRADA SHARPEN TOOLS
May 26, 2022

BACONAJE AND ESTRADA SHARPEN TOOLS

Arnel Baconaje and JonJon Estrada will head to Japan to punch holes in former WBO world title holder Tomoki Kameda.

The Japanese fighter has been relatively quiet during the pandemic, but resumes on July 30 to take on quality Dominican William Encarcion.

Kameda boasts an impressive 38 and 3 record, and interestingly, his only loss in recent years was to the unbeaten Rey Vargas, the very same Mexican that is soon to face Mark Magsayo!

Opportunities to work with foreign fighters are always great ways to build skills, but one also has to spare a thought for the rugged Kameda. It surely will be no picnic trading leather with the Wolverine and the Silencer.

Double Trouble!

ARNEL BACONAJE WINS
March 12, 2022

ARNEL BACONAJE WINS

Great performance by Arnel Baconaje to win by shutout over an extremely resilient Leonardo Doronio.

Baconaje landed more frequently, and also had the power ascendancy, over a bigger opponent. He also controlled the ring with excellent movement.

It was definitely an improved version of Doronio today, he looked fit and imposing. He just struggled with Baconaje's movement,  and he will no doubt fare better with a less mobile opponent.

THREE KINGS !!!
March 11, 2022

THREE KINGS !!!


Three of the very best fighters in the Philippines right now, hungry but still smiling!
Richard "the Beast "Pumicpic, Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje, and the wild dog himself - JonJon "the Wolverine " Estrada are seated in wait for their turn on the scales.
BIG FIGHTS COMING TOMORROW !

READY TO GET ON THE SCALES
March 11, 2022

READY TO GET ON THE SCALES


YES Linn Sandstrom and Arnel Baconaje LOOK LIKE MODELS, but they are actually FIGHTERS !
They will be competing tomorrow in Paranaque at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Weigh in and press conference today.

THE JUICER2 SHOW COMING YOUR WAY !
March 4, 2022

THE JUICER2 SHOW COMING YOUR WAY !

Ben "the Juicer" Mcculloch was one of the best boxers Australia has ever produced, winning 14 straight and getting to world rank #3 as a super middleweight. His signature was his beautiful balance, distance and rotational power, often producing decapitation style knockouts. And it always looked so effortless!

Arnel Baconaje is as close as we've seen to the Aussie star, and he is a standout as one of the Philippines best and most technical operators. The Iloilo fighter shows really good patience in setting his shots, makes good angles, and dispenses the pain with plenty of high and low variety. His defensive base is solid, and he simply never gives cheap shots away to opponents.

Says McCulloch : "I love this guy, especially when I've seen him work with Suarez and Pumicpic. He has the really nice distance and jab, and has that nice Bernard Hopkins /James Toney roll that I used to love when I fought. But you know what, I can see a lot of Canelo in JUICER2, he really is QUALITY !"

Juicer2, also known as "the Silencer ",will be appearing next week at TIGER 2O22 in Manila. Tune in, and judge for yourself ! He is a special fighter.

ARNEL BACONAJE v LEONARDO DORONIO TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila

Saturday March 12th

WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion

WHO WANTS TO BE A TIGER ?
February 17, 2022

WHO WANTS TO BE A TIGER ?

Arnel Baconaje and team working out this morning at Elorde Southbox, in preparation for TIGER 2O22 coming to Manila on Saturday March 12th.

Be ready!

LET'S MEET AT LIGHTWEIGHT !
February 6, 2022

LET'S MEET AT LIGHTWEIGHT !

Arnel Baconaje is without doubt one of the Philippines' best and most technical boxers.
He is also one of the most difficult to match!
"The Silencer" is a very skillful and solidly built 130, with a big KO ratio, and unfortunately, had three opponents drop out en route to TIGER 2O22.
Enter saviour Leonardo Doronio !
The internationally experienced, and former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner, resumed from a lay off in December, and produced a really solid win against Jimmy Borbon at 140 super lightweight. Doronio looked "heavy" in that match, and despite his strong showing against an improved Borbon, gave the appearance that a drop in weight class would really suit.
So when the call went out for a quality opponent for the much ducked Baconaje, Leonardo Doronio was quick to answer. But how to make a fight happen between fighters two divisions apart?
Simple - let's meet in the middle !

ARNEL BACONAJE v LEONARDO DORONIO

TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th

Latest news

INDO CHAMP SIGNS TO FIGHT SUAREZ DEC 10
November 3, 2022

INDO CHAMP SIGNS TO FIGHT SUAREZ DEC 10

Indonesia’s best fighter and former WBC champion  Defry Palulu has signed on to fight Charly Suarez in Vietnam next month.

Palulu was on a shortlist of a number of national champions to fight Suarez, but interestingly, was the only one to call the King's Warrior out.

The Indonesian champ bears the ring name "The Unseen Hammer", which bears testament to his deceptive southpaw style and thudding hands. Palulu was robbed of his WBC title when his country closed for the pandemic, and he was unable to defend his belt. He has since resumed with four straight wins, and boasts the excellent record of 25 and only 2 losses, the most recent being a contentious split decision many years ago.

The Unseen Hammer has also had success in the hurt department, having knocked out 15 of his opponents !

The match between Charly Suarez and Defry Palulu will take place at The Grand Ho Tram on December 10, and is Suarez's first foreign assignment in the pro ranks.

The Indonesian champion represents a mouth watering match up for his initial foray, as Palulu has been very dismissive of the amateur style and lack of firepower that he perceives from Suarez. He also recognizes the skills in the unbeaten pinoy, but believes that he will cut the ring on Suarez far better than previous opponents.  Further, he has stated that Suarez does not punch hard enough to worry the top 10, and he will not only damage his world ambitions, he will do damage to the Philippines freak talent.

Contract signed, done deal, December 10 !

NGUYEN VAN HAI v PAISAL PANJAITAN
November 1, 2022

NGUYEN VAN HAI v PAISAL PANJAITAN

https://thethao.vn/vo-thuat/boxing/nguyen-van-hai-chuan-bi-dau-vo-si-indonesia-bat-bai-tt59326.html?fbclid=IwAR0GX0CHB_aJLNjvf98kGrKaoLvqecAkZ_KRBSM-3iQZ0GUhbiAnxZB48Mw

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE
November 1, 2022

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE

DINH HONG QUAN v ARNEL BACONAJE

IBF Asia Lightweight title

LIVE FROM THE GRAND HO TRAM VIETNAM

Saturday December 10


SANDSTROM WINS WBA INTERCONTINENTAL
October 30, 2022

SANDSTROM WINS WBA INTERCONTINENTAL

Congrats to Victory8 fighter Linn Sandström, who was successful in her WBA assault in York Hall London just moments ago. The Swedish boxer first appeared as a novice performer in Vietnam at Victory8 in 2018, where she challenged national champion Nguyễn Thi Tam at Nguyễn Du Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City.

Sandstrom has since forged a pro career and showed continued improvement, winning in Australia, the Philippines, Costa Rica and tonight's bout in England. Her WBA win over Croatian Sara Marjanovic was Linn Sandström's 7th in the paid ranks, and she's just getting started !

GO SANDSTORM!

DINH HONG QUAN TO FACE BACONAJE DEC 10
October 28, 2022

DINH HONG QUAN TO FACE BACONAJE DEC 10

Vietnam's Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan will face Philippines Arnel Baconaje at the Grand Ho Tram Strip for the IBF title on December 10. This will be as significant a main event as the country has ever seen, where incumbent champion Dinh Hong Quan (9-1) faces his sternest test to date against the skilful pinoy boxer.

The Vietnam rising star has the size advantage, yet Baconaje has bowled over some of the Philippines' biggest and best scoring, 11 knockouts in his 15 wins to date.This is a massive main event with both fighters having the genuine attributes to claim the IBF prize.

Dinh Hong Quan will join the Manny Pacquiao training camp in preparation for his December assignment, whilst Baconaje is currently in Japan working with pound for pound star Naoya Inoue. The match between Dinh Hong Quan and Arnel Baconaje will take place at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam on Saturday December 10th.

Fight card and ticket information coming soon!

THE UNSEEN HAMMER!
October 28, 2022

THE UNSEEN HAMMER!

Have to love the ring name! Defry Palulu is Indonesia’s best fighter and is IBF approved.

He has a 25 win and 2 loss record and was a WBC regional champion before the pandemic robbed him of that title. So he's not happy!

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10
October 28, 2022

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10

Congratulations to the Philippines fighters that will be competing at the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam on Saturday December 10. Arnel Baconaje and Charly will contest IBF titles in two of the main event matches.

Baconaje will take on incumbent lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan, a Vietnam fighter that has recent history with pinoys Delmar Pellio and Jules Victoriano. Charly Suarez is expected to have a confirmed opponent soon.

PALULU VOWS TO "DAMAGE" SUAREZ
October 28, 2022

PALULU VOWS TO "DAMAGE" SUAREZ

Indonesia’s best fighter has given his take on the recent deeds of Charly Suarez, and also his prospects of matching up with the King's Warrior in the near future: "I am aware that I am on a shortlist of fighters for the IBF title in December with Suarez, but if he is serious about being world champ, then pick me - as I am his ticket !

From what I hear, nobody wants any part of Suarez  - the Aussie, the Japan, and even I'm hearing American!And from what I see, I am the ONLY guy to call this amateur out, to expose him in the pro ranks.

But I will make a prediction, that based on what I have seen recently of Charly Suarez, not only will I damage his hopes of a world title, I will do some serious damage to his body also. The guy has zero power, so I don't see how he will compete with a top ten fighter "

Defry Palulu is a former WBC belt holder with a record of 25 and 2. He has encountered only one loss in the last 9 years, a controversial split decision defeat that he later avenged. Charly Suarez will contest the IBF Asia title at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam on Saturday December 10th.

THE FEROCIOUS RING WALK
October 26, 2022

THE FEROCIOUS RING WALK

Big thrill to see "the Ferocious" Carlo Magali back in the ring at Sunday’s BATTLEFIELD. Carlo is one of the most rugged fighters in Philippines boxing, and he turned out in career best shape for his stoush with Charly Suarez in the main event.

Magali started very strongly and in fact edged Suarez in round 3, but it became obvious that the King's Warrior was not going to risk trading with the battle hardened warrior.The match up turned out to be stylistically wrong for Magali, but he certainly showed the physical menace that would really hurt a less lateral opponent than Suarez. We really look forward to The Ferocious appearing again soon, and watching him bust up whatever is in front of him!

SUAREZ STAYS UNDEFEATED
October 25, 2022

SUAREZ STAYS UNDEFEATED

*story courtesy Daily Tribune

Utilizing his all-around skills, Rio Olympics veteran Charly Suarez kept his unbeaten record intact with a lopsided 12-round unanimous decision win over rugged Carlo Magali over the weekend in Sucat, Parañaque. Suarez was defending the World Boxing Association super-featherweight title and likewise vying for the Philippine crown and easily got the job done by earning scores of 119-109 (twice) and 118-110 on the judges’ scorecards.

The crowd at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Center rallied behind Magali but Suarez had no trouble keeping his foe at bay with shots fired from long range. The victory raised Suarez’s record to 13-0 with seven knockouts and the Magali conquest put him on line for a quick return to the ring on 10 December in Vietnam.

“We are fast-tracking his climb to the world ratings,” Suarez’s chief trainer and longtime national team pal Delfin Boholst. Charly’s ripe (for a title shot) because of his age and his wealth of experience (fighting in the amateur ranks),” Boholst added. Though already 34, Suarez has fought extensively and once faced Vasyl Lomachenko, now regarded as one of the world’s finest fighters.

THIS COULD BE INTERESTING!
October 25, 2022

THIS COULD BE INTERESTING!

Hot on the heels of Charly Suarez's clinical WBA and National title win yesterday, the champion's focus now moves to his next assignment. The King's Warrior has been approached to fight in Vietnam in December, and the Philippines' most "ducked" fighter is looking to take his first international scalp on foreign soil.

It seems at this stage, the US, Australia and Japan have stamped Suarez papers as "too dangerous", and given his amateur and pro record, this is hardly surprising! So the search is on for top quality guns that are ready to be lit up by Suarez.

One name that interestingly resurfaced recently was that of a fighter who apparently still holds an opinion on the Philippines star. Charly Suarez was recently made subject of a “call out” by Indonesia’s #1 fighter Defry Palulu, a hard hitter with a 25 and 2 record.

Palulu is classed as one of his country’s best since the mighty Chris John, and the heavy handed southpaw was meant to defend his WBC regional belt against Suarez back in 2020, a match that was cancelled due to the pandemic. At the time Palulu was confident of dismantling the fledgling pro Suarez, and to this day, he still remains optimistic about the task:

Charly Suarez has done very well in his career so far, but I feel I am now a stronger fighter than i was back in 2020, and I just know he hasn’t yet fought someone of my ability. I am hearing that he is the best in Asia at 130, some say even in the world, but I know that I have the power to hurt him and slow his fast hands. "I have been in with many "amateur style" boxers before, and it always ends the same way for them!” warned the man aptly tagged “the Unseen Hammer” !!

Defry Palulu is unbeaten in three fights since returning from the pandemic, and has experienced only one loss in the last 9 years - a split decision loss that he later avenged. VSP Promotions will look into this guy -  if the quotes are real, and he's ready to walk the walk, this could be interesting!

WARRING PARTIES CALL A TRUCE
October 24, 2022

WARRING PARTIES CALL A TRUCE

Champion Philippines boxer Mark John Yap and Team Raka trainer Ephraim Montoru meet after the historic bout between PNG and Philippines.

What was the topic they discussed? " Mark, which one in your opinion is better?

The San Miguel or riding the Red Horse? "was Ephraim's opener !

THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABOUR
October 24, 2022

THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABOUR

Papua New Guinea's very popular Junior Kauko Raka enjoys a meal with other competing boxers after yesterday's huge BATTLEFIELD card in Parañaque Manila.

Raka put on a stoic display in a cracking undercard fight with Philippines champion Mark John Yap.

Junior Raka pressured Yap throughout, winning the admiration of the crowd.

This was the first match for the PNG PRODIGY in almost two years, so expect to see a vastly improved fighter in future bouts.

And our advice is that anyone that is thinking of facing Raka ,?  

WATCH OUT !  You are in for one hell of a fight!

PNG PRODIGY IS ON THE MARCH !

D'HAMMER MUSCLE GETS THE JOB DONE
October 24, 2022

D'HAMMER MUSCLE GETS THE JOB DONE

Despite a slow start, RoyRoy Sumugat wore down a very good looking Ivor Lastrilla.

Lastrilla appeared to outbox Sumugat in the opening sequence, and he looked to be in career best form. He definitely created problems for RoyRoy, and there are wins in store for this smart boxer without doubt. But it was Sumugat to the fore in latter rounds, with his accuracy and nice combination punching earning him the stoppage.

BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD
October 23, 2022

BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD

After the gunshots have fallen silent, and the smoke has cleared !

Huge performances tonight from Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka.

Yap showed all his boxing skills and put an exclamation mark on why he has been a multiple title holder. This "Journeyman" has a lot left in the tank, and he looks invigorated at 130lb.

Raka was a junkyard dog, constantly pressing the champion Yap onto the back foot. Junior Raka showed understandable signs of ring rust, but it was a wholehearted display that won the plaudits of Philippines fans, and was sure to make PNG proud.

Make no mistake, Raka will derive huge benefit from tonight's performance and he will be a menace to top fighters in the division.

Top quality bout. Bravo !

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

"The Ferocious" Carlo Magali looking absolutely shredded at the BATTLEFIELD weigh in just moments ago.

National champion Magali takes on the unbeaten freak talent King's Warrior Charly Suarez in a bout which will decide both RP and WBA Asia titles.

Both fighters weighed in within the Super Featherweight limit at 129 pounds.

Action takes place tomorrow at the Elorde Sports Centre in Parañaque.

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST
October 21, 2022

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST

The Philippines’ Charly Suarez will headline a huge card in Manila this Sunday, when he defends his regional WBA belt agsinst national champion Carlo Magali.

Suarez is without peer in Philippines boxing right now, and arguably sits with Naoya Inoue as the most technically gifted fighter in all of Asia,

The Davao native sits unbeaten at 12 and 0, and such has been his dominance against quality local opposition, he has scored 7 knockouts so far in his pro career.

Carlo Magali will be another solid test for Suarez. A winner of 25 fights, Magali has a very awkward and resilient style that has upset more heavily favoured opponents. Blessed with a great chin and thudding power, the man that has earned the ring name “The Ferocious” is regarded as a killer in his homeland, and in the literal sense.

National champion Magali had an historic battle with Australia’s top 130 Davey Browne a few years back, and such was the bludgeoning that Magali delivered, the unbeaten Aussie lost his life as a result of his injuries.

Carlo Magali comes into Sunday’s match in career best condition, as reported by his camp, so it will be interesting to see if he can subdue the freakish Suarez in any way.

Charly Suarez will be looking to put on another electric display in Sunday’s WBA title defense, and is eyeing off bigger bouts in future. News just broken is that he will head to HO Tram Vietnam on December 10 and look to win the IBF belt, against a soon to be named opponent. The unbeaten boxer will be focussed on world top 10 fights in 2023, and with wins over world champs Oscar Valdez and Joe Cordina in the amateurs, he has every reason to have claims to the throne now that Shakur Stevenson has departed.

“I will fight anyone, anywhere !” beamed the ever smiling Suarez.

BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI

How to watch:

VSP Promotions Facebook      https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions

What time?

US East Coast        6am

US West Coast       3am

UK                          11am

Vietnam                  5pm

Philippines              6pm

Australia and PNG  9pm

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA
October 18, 2022

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA

Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.

Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim  Montoru.

Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.

Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !
October 17, 2022

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !

Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.

Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.

This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire  NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!

But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd

BE THERE, OR WATCH IT  LIVE !

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING
October 16, 2022

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING

The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.

On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.

Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:

"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.

When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.

I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.

There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.

Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.

One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.

I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."

Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!
October 14, 2022

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

Be there or watch it here live !

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY
October 14, 2022

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY

Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.

Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD
October 11, 2022

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD

Manila Lightweight DEADLY Daffy Dempo is back in action next Sunday with a highly anticipated bout with fellow Manila boxer Jonniel Laurente.

This will be the first match for the popular boxer since 2019, when Dempo comprehensively outscored Danny Manosa. Prior to that, DEADLY was involved in a drawn bout with the wild man Jino Rodrigo, who also appears on this card.

Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente

8 rounds Lightweight 132lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION
October 10, 2022

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION

Palawan boxer Jahzeel Trinidad aims to keep his unbeaten record (6 wins) intact when he tackles JC Francisco (8 wins) next week.

This will be his toughest test so far, but this high energy boxer known as "Lion Hearted" has all the right tools to make it a thriller with the more experienced Francisco.

Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco

8 rounds Flyweight  112lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO
October 9, 2022

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO

Nguyễn Văn Duong and Brazil's outstanding  Esquiva Falcao are just two of the big names taking part in the "friendly" at Cocky Buffalo gym in Ho Chi Minh City today.

Falcao was a silver medallist winner at the 2012 Olympics, and has since gone on an unbeaten 30 fight winning streak as a pro. The world #14 will spar Vietnam Lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan as part of today's exhibition.

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY
October 10, 2022

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY

DInh Hong Quan, Nguyễn Văn Duong, Vu Thanh Dat and many others joining Brazilian champ Esquiva Falcao in a friendly sparring day today at Cocky Buffalo gym in District 7 HCMC today.