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.
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.
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.
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/
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
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
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 !
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 !
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.
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
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.
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 !
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.
*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
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)
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.
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.
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.
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
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 (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)
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 !
This is the main event !
Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân goes toe to toe with the very lethal puncher from the Philippines - Arnel Baconaje.
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
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
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 !!!
Saturday December 10 Fortunes of War !
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
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
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 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
IBF Asia Lightweight title
LIVE FROM THE GRAND HO TRAM VIETNAM
Saturday December 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!
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.
*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.
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.
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!
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 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 !
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.
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
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!
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
It may get rough, it may get ugly, but it’s also one of the most highly anticipated match ups at ANNIHILATION UKC this August.
RoyRoy “d’Hammer” Sumugat meets Jufel “the Lion” Salina, and they are vowing to test each other “mano e mano” - in true Southpaw style!
Jufel Salina resumed from almost a two year absence to score an excellent stoppage win against Kresler Tenorio at the end of 2021. The Lion has managed to stay busy in 2022, and it has paid dividends. He faced the promising Jonniel Laurente in February, and in what appeared anybody’s fight, the judges agreed. Tenorio earned a Majority Draw, and in this match he really displayed significant improvements on his first up win. He then faced a really promising type in the shape of Justin Cabarles, and while its fair to say his opponent had some ring rust, the manner in which Tenorio stopped Cabarles was ultra impressive. This Davao born fighter has now scored 5 wins, 4 coming by knockout, so he obviously lacks nothing in the power department. The Lion is a rapidly improving fighter on the upswing. He’s dangerous!
Roy Roy Sumugat makes his return to the ring after an unfortunate (and unexpected) stoppage loss at the hands of Juanito Paredes in late 2021. It was a match theat the man known as D’Hamer was favoured to win, but one that he will nonetheless derive plenty of benefit. Till then , it was a very successful year for the charismatic boxer.
D’Hammer had scored two stoppage victories already in 2021, and was showing no signs of slowing up!!
In May 2021, he landed a surprise round one knockout over the rugged Eljohn Evangelista, and then followed up in September with another knockout win over Glenn Bismanos. That match proved to be a great test of character for Sumugat, as he was actually dropped himself in round one, and bounced back to eventually wear down the dangerous Bismanos.
Sumugat is originally from Bacolod City, but is based in Manila with the Elorde team. He is constantly surrounded by quality fighters in that environment, and there is no doubt that the man known as D’Hammer has flourished this year with some regular sparring and competition.
Roy has a natural flair for distance and timing, and knows how to drop the hammer when he has an opponent in trouble. This former “part time” fighter is a major talent, and he has already notched up 12 wins against formidable opponents.
Be in no doubt that RoyRoy will have recovered nicely and will be in crazy shape for his assignment with Salina.
This promises to be one of the standout bouts of the day, but will also provide a real measure of how far Tenorio has grown as a fighter, or alternatively, how wilfully a vengeful Sumugat can out skill his less experienced opponent.
RoyRoy Sumugat v Jufel Salina
8 rounds Super Featherweight
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Mark Magsayo is striving for the world #1 spot when he battles unbeaten 35 and 0 Rey Vargas in Texas today. Whilst showing flaws in his unblemished career thus far, Magsayo has equally shown an ability to improve with every new challenge, and brings speed and power to the ring that very few can surpass.
But he is not the Philippines lone hope to shine bright on the world stage!
Charly Suarez is without doubt the best and most technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced (and yes, we are including the phenomenon that is Manny Pacquiao) He has been the most heralded amateur of the last decade, winning three SEA Games gold, and losing controversially at the Olympics to the outstanding Joe Cordina. This British boxer is now IBF World champ, after destroying Japan's Kenichi Ogawa with a stunning knockout.
The King's Warrior's world claims were scalable long ago. It is now almost part of folklore that he faced the fabled Vasyl Lomachenko on 5 days notice and visibly injured, only to make the champion work overtime to earn a victory. The Philippines Suarez was out of the ring for 18 months to rehabilitate from this extraordinary effort.
Charly Suarez has made an immediate impact in the pro ranks, and it could be argued that as successful as he was as an amateur, he's even better suited to the longer round format. The unbeaten fighter has amassed 11 wins in extra quick time, and is looking to a WBA title defense next month against Mark John Yap.
And it is expected that the busy Suarez will have at least two more fights this year.
No rest if you are chasing a world title !
Good luck to Mark Magsayo today, and to Charly Suarez, it won't be long before these world top 10 can't hide from you!
CHARLY SUAREZ v MARK JOHN YAP
WBA Asia Super Featherweight title
ANNIHILATION UKC
Paranaque Manila
Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Seven Vietnam warriors making their debuts against foreign fighters from Australia, Sweden, Papua New Guinea and Malta.
Catch all the action live from VSP Boxing Gym in HCMC on Thursday July 28th.
First bout starts at 7pm.
Get there early or watch it here live !
One of Papua New Guinea's best known fighters is headed to Manila, and has agreed to contest an exhibition bout in Paranaque on Saturday August 6th.
ANNIHILATION UKC will be preceded by a huge amateur show the day prior, and the PNG boxer will be looking for some valuable ring time to compensate for a year of inactivity. His opponent is not known yet, but will likely be a pinoy big name.
Richard Pumicpic, Jetro Pabustan, and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada are currently on the PNG banger's hit list!
Junior Raka is a former Arafura Games silver medallist, and has had 3 "official" professional bouts, winning 2 by Knockout. His loss was on points to the outstanding pinoy Roldan Aldea, in a WBA title match in early 2021.
The PNG Prodigy now has his sights set on challenging for that same belt against the freakish Charly Suarez, and his trip to the Philippines will be to remove ring rust, and to set sights on the King's Warrior as a potential future rival.
Junior Raka will head to the Philippines via HCMC Vietnam, where he will resume on Thursday July 28th. Raka takes pride of place as the main event at the show held at VSP BOXING GYM in HCMC.
Allan Villanueva looked a quality prospect ever since debuting back in 2015, winning 7 of his first 8 matches by Knockout.
He has since gone on to win 11 bouts, with his two lone losses coming at the hands of outstanding Omega boxers Carlo Bacaro and Tomjune Mangubat. Villanueva has been rewarded for his stellar form with a shot at the WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title, but he has a significant obstacle standing between himself and victory – that being the carved from granite Al “The Rock” Toyogan!
Toyogan likewise has been in excellent touch. The Rock resumed from a two year break in late 2021, stopping Lloyd Jardeliza who was also on the comeback trail. Toyogan consolidated that form in February of this year, when he proved a brutal victor over 13 fight winner Joe Tejones. The match started in torrid fashion, and the tough Tejones wore some great shots, but the accumulation was telling, and Toyogan felled the experienced opponent in dominant style in round two.
Although short in stature, The Rock clearly packs plenty of power, and has a superb chin. Toyogan was the winner of the WBC Asia Silver title back in 2018, a title he successfully defended against the Japanese fighter Ryusei Ishii. He has shared the ring with many other outstanding boxers, and sometimes it is in defeat, that a fighter’s best qualities are seen to the fore. In 2019, The Rock faced former world champion and demonic puncher Jorge Linares, and weathered 10 torrid rounds with the star. He also landed significant shots of his own, many putting the shocked Linares back on on his heels.
Al Toyogan hails from the northern Mindanao region of Gingoog City, and went pro in 2015. In that time, he has amassed 12 wins, with his first regional title coming within 3 years of his debut. Impressive!
Add to that the fact that he has scored 8 knockouts against sturdy opposition, and you start getting the picture that facingThe Rock is no walk in the park!
Allan Villanueva and Al Toyogan are both dynamic young fighters that favour their power. This is an epic contest between two high ranked lightweights that are looking towards overseas opportunities. This will no doubt be a barnburner, and irrespective of the result, expect these two to go on to many more exciting victories.
But if Villanueva to prove successful in his quest to win the lightweight belt, the task will be easier said than done, as he will need to scale the immovable “Rock” named Al Toyogan!
Al Toyogan v Allan Villanueva
WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Charly Suarez 11 wins WBA champion
Mark John Yap 30 wins Challenger
Two other belt titles on the line, with Al Toyogan and Allan Villanueva doing battle at Lightweight, and live wires Lito Dante and Clyde Azarcon out for blood at Minimumweight.
International visitors include former Australasian champ Michael Pengue, Swedish bombshell Linn Sandstrom, and from Vietnam, the legendary fighting man Nguyen Van Hai.
Many great fights on this card, with fight summaries coming soon!
Davao's Charly Suarez returned to Manila this week after a short stint in his native Davao. The King's Warrior is on a quick turnaround, after winning a warm up bout in Bohol in early July in preparation for his upcoming WBA title defense. The champ reunited this week with strategist and coach Delfin Boholst, who is based in Manila. Boholst has thus far proved to be a mentor of high calibre, and was himself a successful member of the Philippines national team.
Suarez was slated to fight no less than four outstanding foreign opponents for his Manila defense, with all withdrawing at the last moment for various reasons.
VSP Promotions are a huge fan of Mark John Yap, and when this boxer became available, he was immediately secured to match up with Suarez. Yap is arguably one of the best internationally performed pinoy in recent years, playing headmaster to an extremely tough school in Japan. Between 2015 and 2018, he literally terrorized that country's best fighters, before returning to the Philippines for a Knockout victory in CDO. His recent "losses" have been last moment call ups against unbeaten foreign opponents, often in unsuitable weight class.
And for those who think that Yap is past tense, THINK AGAIN, and check his most recent effort in Dubai against unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra.
Yap took this match at two weeks notice, jumped a weight class, and floored Hererra with a body shot. Hererra is a Cuban national champ, and world youth semi finalist, and had a massive 5 inches height advantage on Mark John Yap.
Coach Delfin Boholst is enthusiastic about the challenge ahead.
"We are really honored, and looking forward to the test against Yap. He is definitely the most experienced pro we have faced so far, and he has been a warrior for the Philippines against top fighters overseas. We do not underestimate the talents of this man, and we are preparing to see the very best of Mark John Yap in August".
"As for Suarez team, the job is never finished. We always look to improve, and we will always be prepared for any opponent. We are not looking past Mark John Yap, but going forward, we would love to fight Liam Wilson of Australia. We would also love the chance to rematch world champ Joe Codrington, it's one we are very excited for !"
Suarez v Yap will fight for the WBA Asia title in Paranaque Manila on Sunday August 7th.
Dana Coolwell weighed in 57.0kg, dead on the featherweight limit.
Bukidnon's Lorenz Ladrada looked great at 56.8kg.
The Aussie indigenous star and Ladrada will battle out 8 rounds tomorrow night at the Gold Coast on the undercard of the Mairis Briedis world cruiserweight title defense. Briedis has suffered only one loss in a glittering career, that being at the hands of current heavyweight world champ Oleksandr Usyk.
*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.
Outstanding pinoy Mark John Yap returns to the local fight scene on Sunday August 7th, where he takes on rising star Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title.
Yap has proved to be one of the Philippines most successful exports in recent years. Between 2015 and 2018, he literally tore the Japanese bantamweight division to shreds, winning and successfully defending the OPBF title on no less than four occasions. He then returned to the Philippines, and in front of his home town, knocked out the exciting 130lb prospect Ulysses Lagos (12-2)
The experienced Mark John Yap has met some of the world's best fighters, and had no hesitation jumping at the opportunity to fight the freakish Suarez.
"I know with the right preparation, I can give anyone a great fight, and I really look forward to seeing if Suarez is as good as they say".
Mark John Yap heads to Manila on August 7th with the phenomenal record of 30 wins and 15 knockouts. Considering his calibre of opponents in the last 8 years, the talented "Journey Man" could easily have amassed 50 wins !
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.
*story courtesy Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines – With the Philippines beginning to open further after two crippling years of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, boxer Lito Dante is one of those eager to reclaim his old life and, well, battle for a championship.
On Sunday, Dante (18-11-4) will fight Cebuano pugilist Clyde Azarcon for the WBF International minimumweight championship at the Elorde Sports Complex in Sucat, Parañaque.
The bout against Azarcon will be Dante’s second of the year after the 32-year-old Bohol native knocked out Ryan Ralozo last April 30. Because of the quick win, Dante did not sustain any serious injuries that allows him to fight four months later.
“Matagal-tagal din tayo walang laban,” smiled Dante. “Kaya naghahabol din.”
Dante, who now calls Valenzuela home, also has a dual purpose in needing to win this fight.
“Kung pagpalain tayo at manalo sa laban na ito, makakabalik ako sa world rankings,” explained the man nicknamed “Naruto.”
His inactivity during the global lockdown saw him unable to defend Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation minimumweight title that he won in 2019.
“Excited ako sa laban na ito at makabawi, enthused Dante who has been training under the watchful eye of Florence Ferrer, former national team boxer, Southeast Games medalist, and known for training the first ever Filipina world boxing champion in Gretchen Abaniel.
He won’t find it easy against Azarcon, who is five years his junior and has a better overall record at 17-4-1. Furthermore, he is taller and has a slightly longer reach.
Azarcon, though, is coming off a loss to John Paul Gabunilas last March 19.
“Ang masasabi ko lang is pagbubutihin ko ang pag-ensayo at sa pagdating ng laban sa Agosto,” summed up Dante.
Dante will be co-headlining the August 7 event along with former Olympian Charly Suarez (11-0), who will defend his WBA Asia super featherweight belt against Marjohn Yap (30-16). Meanwhile, Allan Villanueva (11-2) and Al Toyogon (12-6-1) slug it out for the vacant WBF Asia Pacific lightweight championship.
*story courtesy philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines – "What is a pretty and educated girl like you doing in sweaty boxing gyms and trying to knock someone out?"
Rica Aquino has heard it before.
It’s a little more “complicated” than that.
Aquino graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of the Philippines and played with the Manila Symphony Orchestra for 10 years. She also taught music at Brent International School for six years.
Well, she still performs when the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra needs an extra musician and teaches music literature at the Philippine High School for the Arts.
But when Aquino is outside the performance hall and classroom, she’s a professional boxer.
“I have been fascinated with fighting sports (even as a child) but as a child playing the violin and as a professional musician, I was restricted in terms of the sports I wanted to do,” Rica related. “So I took up combat sports when I was an adult already and after I had resigned from the orchestra.”
Now, as a 39-year old, Aquino is looking to make her mark in professional boxing.
“I love the competitive aspect of the sport, the discipline, and of course, the risk and thrill of competing.”
Boxing is actually her third sport as she previously took up Muay Thai where she was a National Games silver medalist. She then took up mixed martial arts under the famed Team Lakay of Mark Sangiao.
On August 7, Aquino (0-0-1) will take part in her second professional fight at UKC Annihilation at the Elorde Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.
She will square off against a familiar foe from the past in Erika Ballen, who she first tangled with in 2017 as an amateur.
“We faced each other in 2017 and now, five years later, things have changed,” said Aquino, who won that encounter via first round technical knockout. “I’m excited to see how much we have changed and developed.”
Rica previously fought Indian boxer Deepika Tiwari, who brought her 1-1-2 record to the ring against the Filipina. The fight ended in a draw.
“The fight card in August is amazing,” enthused Aquino. “I am honored to be fighting with my idols Charly Suarez and my teammate Lito Dante. Some of the other boxers are also my friends so I am excited for this card.”
“I have been training hard for this fight as women’s fights are few in this country. I will give it my best and try to get that first professional win.”
Bukidnon's Lorenz Ladrada resumed from a 2 year hiatus in early 2021, only to enjoy the busiest of years, winning 4 of his 5 matches, and pleasingly, showing constant improvements with each outing.
His consistency has been rewarded with a fight in Australia against one of that country's best super featherweight prospects, the very "Deadly" Dana Coolwell. The Aussie is one of those beautiful indigenous fighters, really fast hands, lots of clever volume, and blessed with intuitive skills and movement! And similar to Ladrada, each time we see Coolwell he just gets better and better. His last match was a narrow points loss for a world youth title that many believe he won.
This is a really interesting fight!
Coolwell is 2 to 3 weight classes above Ladrada, who also happens to be the much shorter boxer.
But the Aussie bout will be on the "middle ground " of featherweight, and as you can see from today's picture, Ladrada will strip very strongly at this weight. Dana Coolwell is tall and still growing, so it remains to be seen if he can bring his usual energy and pop to this world title undercard.
This is one of best undercards in Australia this year, and Ladrada v Coolwell is the main support to the world cruiser title between Mairis Briedis and Jai Opetaia.
Action coming from the Gold Coast July 2nd.
GO LADRADA !!!
Bukidnon's Lorenz "Cerberus" Ladrada ventures to Australia to face outstanding prospect Dana Coolwell at the Gold Coast on July 2nd.
On what is a night showcasing some of of Australia's best talent, Ladrada fights on the main undercard to a cracking world title Cruiserweight showdown between Mairis Briedis and Jai Opetaia.
Dana Coolwell is a natural super featherweight, and Ladrada a super bantam, yet the Aussie match will be held on middle ground of featherweight !
Whilst Coolwell will hold a height and reach advantage, what will be key is whether he can maintain his outstanding workrate at this lower weight class. If down on energy, he faces a tough night at the office with the Philippines' Lorenz Ladrada !!
FORMER Olympian Charly Suarez returns to the ring on Aug. 7 to defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) Asia super featherweight belt against what should be one of his toughest opponent to date, veteran Marjohn Yap, in the main event of UKC Tiger - “Annihilation” at the Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Center in Parañaque City.
The 33-year-old Suarez hopes to get a world ranking and an impressive win over an experienced former regional champion like Yap could boost him up the super-featherweight ladder.
Suarez started the year 2022 with a 12th-round technical knockout of prospect Tomjune Mangubat to win the vacant WBA Asia super-featherweight strap in Parañaque City last March. He followed it up with a unanimous decision win over tough Junny Salogaol last June 10 in Bohol.
Yap, on the other hand, is on a three-fight slump, fighting in the US and Dubai.
The 33-year-old Yap lost to one-time world title challenger Angelo Leo, undefeated American up-and-comer Angel Alejandro and unbeaten Cuban prospect Jadier Herrera.
Before his short campaign in the US, Yap had an impressive seven-year stint in Japan, where he won the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) bantamweight belt and went 12-5. He won against the likes of former interim WBA minimumweight champion Juan Jose Landaeta and three-time world title challenger Hiroyuki Kudaka.
Suarez is 11-0 with seven knockouts, while Yap is 30-16 with 15 knockouts.
Also featured in the same card are two World Boxing Foundation (WBF) regional bouts.
Clyde Azarcon (17-4-1, 6 KOs) fights against battle-scarred veteran Lito Dante (18-11-4, 10 KOs) for the vacant WBF International minimumweight strap, while Allan Villanueva (11-2, 8 KOs) slugs it out with Al Toyogon (12-6-1, 8 KOs) for the vacant WBF Asia Pacific lightweight belt.
Also booked in the undercard is Vietnamese Van Hai Nguyen (2-0, 1 KO) taking on fellow unbeaten prospect Jerald Into (4-0, 4 KOs).
*story courtesy SunStar
*photo: Suarez and Vietnam's Nguyen Van Hai
With three Championship title matches in one event, UKC Tiger ANNIHILATION brings to you triple-header championship matches with 18 undercard bouts!
Featuring the title defense of WBA Asia Super featherweight champion Charly "King's Warrior" Suarez, as well as two vacant championship matches for the WBF International Minimumweight title and the WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title.
All of these must-watch fights are set to take place at the Grand Ballroom, Elorde Sports Complex, Sucat, Paranaque City on August 7th.
One of the most interesting bouts at ANNIHILATION UKC will feature the appearance of Vietnam's Nguyen Van Hai.
Hai is regarded as the most experienced "multiple forms" fighter in Vietnam, whether it be with gloves, kicks or sticks!
Despite not having competed as a boxer in a long time, Hai has the muscle memory to fight any size, and at any time. The 59kg fighter was listed to fight Jino Rodrigo at 64kg as recently as March, but was unable to fulfill due to planes not flying.
This time around, he is pitched against the very promising and unbeaten southpaw Jerald Into at 61kg, a fighter that achieved 4 KO in his wins thus far. Into obviously has power, but impressively, sets everything up with a nice jab and is very clever at precise shot selection.
Nguyen Van Hai is well known in Vietnam for sparring westerners literally 30kg heavier than himself, so its fair to presume that nothing daunts this man, and his clash with Into will be one of the highlight bouts on Sunday August 7th.
There were lots of promising fighters at last night's show in Bohol, spearheaded by victories by local Virgel Vitor and Davao's Charly Suarez in the co-main events.
Rhonvex Capuloy is definitely one to keep on the watch list, scoring a stoppage win with a body shot in the second round.
Perhaps the most competitive contest of the night was between Joseph Sumabong and Zandy Padiran, with Sumabong prevailing with a points win.
This was high quality work from both fighters, and whilst Sumabong deserved the decision with some artful strikes, Zandy Padiran was ultra impressive. It is almost impossible to believe that these two fighters only have four wins between them, as they both showed signs of being way more experienced. Definitely put a watch on these two, they are both excellent.
Charly Suarez was in training mode with a shutout win over a tough and resilient Junny Salogaol in Bohol last night.
The King's Warrior was chasing some rounds in preparation for his upcoming title defense, and Salogaol did admirably to weather the storm and survive the 6 rounds. While it's fair to say that Suarez's opponent came to survive rather than compete, the plan worked, and the King's Warrior was able to dazzle the crowd with his footwork, hand speed and withering combinations.
WBA title defense is coming August 7th !
This will be a stacked show, and held in the Elorde Ballroom in Paranaque and must not be missed. It's possibly the last chance to see Charly Suarez to fight in front of his home crowd, so get there to cheer him on. LOUDLY!!!
Announcement on who will be the Suarez opponent, and the rest of the fight card coming soon.
FORMER Olympian Charly Suarez keeps himself busy in a six-round fight against journeyman Junny Salogaol on June 10 in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
Suarez is coming off the biggest win of his career after stopping young prospect Tomjune Mangubat to win the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Asia super featherweight belt last March 12 in Paranaque City.
The 33-year-old Suarez is preparing for a title defense in August against a foreign opponent.
Salogaol, in the meantime, is a very experienced fighter that has elite opposition, the likes of Hiroaki Teshigawara and Joe Noynay.
He’s dropped his last four contests and is coming off a split decision loss against former regional champion Jessie Cris Rosales.
Suarez is 10-0 with seven knockouts, while Salogaol is 14-19-5 with 13 knockouts.
Virgel Vitor faces Jecker Buhawe in a six-round co-main event.
Vitor won three straight fights since losing to veteran Mark Anthony Geraldo. He’s coming off a unanimous decision win over Lorence Rosas last December.
Buhawe, on the other hand, is on a six-fight slump and is fresh from a second round knockout in the hands of Jun Blazo last April.
Vitor is 16-2 with nine knockouts, while Buhawe is 16-16-1 with 10 knockouts.
In the undercard, Danrick Sumabong (11-2, 8 KOs) locks horns with Royder Lloyd Borbon (6-12-1, 6 KOs); Rhonvex Capuloy (7-2, 4 KOs) fights Vicento Casido (6-4-1, 2 KOs); Joseph Sumabong (1-0, 1 KO) trades leathers with Zandy Padiran (3-3-1, 1 KO); Chris John Daan (1-0) is up against Cedie Noblefranca (0-7-1); and Richard Taculod makes his pro debut against Steve Noblefranca (1-4-1).
* story courtesy of SunStar
Fights start at 6pm
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Make sure you tune in tomorrow night for some fun fight action direct from the mystical island of Bohol.
All boxers made weight at a very relaxed event held earlier today.
Danrick Sumabong and Virgel Vitor are two of the better known fighters taking part in Friday's pro card, which will be preceded by some high octane amateur action.
Watch the fights on Elorde TV, and shared here live, from 6pm.
Junny Salogaol and Charly Suarez look ready to hit the blue water, and they will, but not until after tomorrow's big event on the picturesque Island of Bohol.
Both fighters weighed in at 132 for their bout on Friday evening, with Salogaol looking the bigger of the two.
Junny resumes from SD loss to Jessie Cris Rosales at super lightweight (140) and Suarez is a touch above his usual fight weight of 130.
Charly Suarez will defend his WBA title in Manila on August 7th, and the sojourn to Bohol is a great opportunity to help prepare for that match. It is expected that Suarez will be facing an unbeaten foreign boxer, with news on that coming soon.
Boxing fans, don't miss some top class fighters showing their stuff this Friday evening on the beautiful island of Bohol.
Rhonvex Capuloy, Virgel Vitor, Danrick Sumabong and none other than the King's Warrior Charly Suarez will take part in this fantastic provincial offering to boxing lovers.
The appearance of Philippines best boxer Charly Suarez is a huge treat for locals, as it is likely the last opportunity to seem him perform live. His bout will be a prelude to a WBA defense in Manila on August 7th, which will likely mark the champ's last local appearance for some time.
It is expected that Suarez will fight overseas in October, and again in Vietnam on December 11th, in pursuit of more titles and world rankings.
News on a Suarez opponent for August 7th in Manila is expected to break soon.
JonJon Estrada working with former WBO world champ Tomoki Kameda today in Osaka.
Kameda is known as "El Mexicanito" The Little Mexican, whilst Estrada has achieved cult status as "the Wolverine "
Based on the ring monikers, you know that their sparring was no place for the faint hearted!
Tomoki Kameda returns to the ring on July 30 against William Encarcion, and will look to add to his impressive resume of 38 wins and 20 knockouts.
The Philippines Estrada is likely to fight in Japan on July 23, carrying a record of 15 wins, 14 by sadistic stoppage!
Boxers need to keep busy!
Charly Suarez defends his WBA title in Manila on August 7th, but will take part in a provincial event this Friday to assist in his preparations for that task.
And because Bohol love their boxing!
Some great fighters will compete at the show, including local star Virgel Vitor (16 wins), Danrick Sumabong (11 wins) and Rhonvex Capuloy (7 wins).
This is a great opportunity for Suarez to get some rounds in before his Manila assignment on August 7th.
Expect a WBA title opponent to be named for the King's Warrior in coming days.
The true to life, modern day action hero himself, THE WOLVERINE, JonJon Estrada on the plane this morning and heading to Osaka.
Estrada won't be on holiday while he's there, he has the important job of preparing former world champ Tomoki Kameda (38 wins) for his upcoming bout with some torrid sparring sessions.
All we can say is, good luck Kameda, you're gunna need it!
Annihilation UKC is assembling an all star cast for Sunday August 7th!
We are going for an international flavour and have already secured Michael Pengue (Australia), Linn Sandstrom (Sweden) and the iconic Nguyễn Văn Hải (Vietnam) to come to Manila and mix it up with the Philippines fighters.
The biggest news is that Charly Suarez will defend his WBA belt, and we are very close to terms with a foreign opponent that claims he will halt the world title aspirations of the local star.
We say - bring it on!
This will be a MUST NOT MISS event, big news breaking soon on the full fight card!
Nobody does SELF BELIEF better than George "Ferocious" Kambosos.
And nobody disputes the ethereal skills of Devin "the Dream" Haney.
But as Kambosos bluntly puts it
"Haney will be ready for this fight, but I am ready to go to WAR!"
Great pic sums it up at today's media conference, courtesy of:
Vinny Nguyen photography
VSP young gun Lorenz Ladrada heads to Queensland in July to fight top flight Aussie Dana Coolwell, and what's more, its on a World Title undercard!
Bukidnon's Ladrada has yet to fight this year, but had a successful 2021 with 4 wins from 5 outings. His lone loss was a split decision to the very exciting Gary Tamayo.
Dana Coolwell is one of the best prospects in Australian boxing, and is coming down from 130 to take on Ladrada.
As reported by promoter Tasman Fighters:
#COOLWELL | #LADRADA | #JULY2 | #GCCEC
This Card is Taking on Legendary Status
Fresh off an incredible performance Dana Coolwell immediately heads back to the canvas to face off with Filipino Lorenz Ladrada (11-2-1) July 2nd on the Opetaia v Briedis IBF World Cruiserweight Title undercard - Utterly Unmissable Boxing
Coolwell will be looking to stomp any fire out quickly after a close fight last time he graced the canvas. You’ll want tickets to this amazing card - be quick - tickets are running out FAST.
Banging times ahead for some of the Elorde crew.
Gretel De Paz heads to Australia in June, then Lorenz Ladrada to Australia, Cris Ganoza and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada to Japan, and Jules Victoriano to Vietnam, all in July.
Ranny Quizo also meets Rodel Suganob in a local derby that same month.
DON'T FORGET we will have a big card for Manila on August 7th, where we are working to get the Philippines best Charly Suarez his first foreign opponent in the professional ranks.
Also very exciting news breaking late last night is the appearance at this show of the promising and unbeaten Jerald Into.
For those who aren't familiar with the name, you are sure to hear a lot more!
This is a boxer who has settled his first 4 fights with dramatic Knockouts !
Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has delivered a stunning endorsement of Sydney fighter George Kambosos jnr ahead of his world title defence against American Devin Haney, declaring: “Nobody could have done what George has done.”
Kambosos, 28, will attempt to become the first boxer to hold all four belts in the lightweight division when he fights Haney at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on June 5.
George Kambosos Jr has pledged to send American boxer Devin Haney home with no spoils from their epic bout
There is mounting speculation that Pacquiao, who did more than 250 rounds of sparring with Kambosos during his career, will be among the 50,000-strong crowd for the fight.
In a rare interview, the 12-time world champion told the Good Weekend Kambosos looked incredibly sharp in preparation and will win world titles for as long as he wants.
“I look at the training videos he has been posting on his various social platforms and I’m amazed at what he’s doing in the gym,” Pacquiao said. “No-one is in better condition. You can tell he wants to keep those belts for as long as possible.
“It’s been a long journey for George, and he has sacrificed a lot to get to the top — I do not see him letting that go. How many world titles can he win? He’s only limited by his imagination and his ambition. So far, George has accomplished everything he has set his mind to.”
The relationship between Pacquiao and Kambosos first blossomed when the little-known fighter from Sylvania was sparring at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles in early 2017.
Roach thought he would be an ideal sparring partner for Pacquiao for his fight against Brisbane schoolteacher Jeff Horn at Suncorp Stadium; a fight Horn won in a stunning upset.
Kambosos helped Pacquiao prepare for two more world title fights, including training camps in Manila and running the hills around General Santos, where Pacquiao grew up on the street before boxing became his salvation.
“From the beginning I knew, and my team knew, George was a very good fighter,” Pacquiao explained. “That is why I wanted George in all my training camps. It went beyond giving me good work. He made me work. He was a sparring partner in name only. You could sense he had big ambitions in boxing. He wanted to be the best and he treated his sparring sessions with me as part of his education. I never saw the same fighter twice. He was more than a sparring partner. He was a training partner.”
Often, on long road runs, Kambosos and Pacquiao would draw away from the rest of the pack.
“George worked harder than anyone in the camp,” Pacquiao said. “I think that is why we got along so well. He would be right there with me running the hills every morning, doing sit-ups next to me after the run, full workouts in the gym every afternoon. He was always doing the extra work. He never cut corners on himself, and it was that work ethic that showed me he had the drive to do what so few in boxing can, and that is to become a world champion.”
It was that single-mindedness that propelled Kambosos to his own upset victory over Teofimo Lopez in New York last November, a result which delivered him the IBF, WBA and WBO world titles. Haney holds the WBC title.
As Kambosos explains to the Good Weekend on Saturday, he was prepared “to die” in the ring against Lopez given how much was on the line for his family and his career. Instead, the 13-1 underdog won via a split points decision.
"The fight he took to Teofimo Lopez … I do not think anyone else could have done what George did that night,” Pacquiao said. “He showed in the Lopez fight that not only can he give out punishment, but he can also take it, and that comes from working hard every day in training and staying fit in between fights. George has so many strengths, physically and mentally. He is not predictable. He sees the whole ring and uses it to his advantage. He keeps everything together. He is very disciplined.”
Despite holding three world title belts, and the victory over Lopez, Kambosos remains a clear outsider ($2.51) with bookmakers against Haney ($1.56). Kambosos said he was determined to make sure his first title defence in Australia was against a quality opponent.
“I could’ve fought a no-name,” Kambosos said. “Made $3 million to $4 million. Look at me, my first big defence in Australia lasts two rounds. Sorry fans … I can’t do that. I’m the top dog in the division but the underdog in this fight. It’s exactly where I want to be.”
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!
SEA Games silver medallist and Victory8 World Team member Gretel De Paz will make her return to the ring in Brisbane next month.
De Paz will take on rising Aussie star Taylah Robertson, who is a former esteemed amateur. The clash represents a rise in weight class for the Philippines fighter, but she definitely possesses the heavier hands, and she is likely to give Robertson plenty to contend with.
The Suarez team spotted earlier today, plotting and planning the year ahead.
Charly Suarez went to 10 and 0 and top seventy in the world, when he recently captured the WBA Asia title in Manila.
The King's Warrior was to defend that title in Dubai this June, only to have the match postponed, in part, due to boxers trying to avoid the Philippines star!
OK plans change!
Suarez team stay busy, so he will have a regular bout in June, and follow that up with a title defense locally or abroad 6 weeks later.
VSP Promotions will stage an iconic event in Vietnam in December, and plans are already in place to secure Suarez a world rated opponent for the HCMC outdoor show. It is expected that many thousands of people will watch the King's Warrior, and some other pinoy stars, fight at the extravaganza.
DOMINATION UKC is already underway, with many of Manila's best amateurs doing their thing before the professional card later today.
Ranny Quizo and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada are big fight fans when they aren't in the ring themselves, and arrived early to get a good seat.
If you are in Manila, make sure to get down to the Elorde Flash Grand Ballroom in Paranaque and catch all the action live. It will be a great day.
We will also stream the fights here later today.
Gary Tamayo ranks as one of the Philippines best prospects, and Danny Tampipi surely is one of the more tricky. Both southpaw, both measure the distance well and know how to land shots.
Gary "the Hawk " Tamayo sits at 6 wins and a loss, and could just as easily be unbeaten.
Boy Tirador aka Freaky Tampipi, dropped star boxer Pete Apolinar, and also endured six rounds with the very bad intentioned Arnel Baconaje. That's great form for this !
Expect Tamayo brilliance mixed with power, and Danny Tampipi out to totally clip the Hawk's wings. Nice fight!
DOMINATION Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Tomorrow !
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Two of the very best and most experienced fighters in the Philippines will be featuring at Domination UKC tomorrow.
Richard Pumicpic resumes from a short lay off, after an accidental head clash forced his most recent foray to be deemed a "no contest ". The man known as "the Beast "has already notched up an incredible 22 wins, many of those against top class international boxers. Pumicpic, it's also accurate to say, is probably the Philippines most "robbed" fighter on the road!
Edison Berwela has been out of the ring since early 2020, so it's great to see this top performer finally back in action.
Berwela has an excellent record of 18 wins, and his recent defeats were all narrow points losses for international belts. The best of Edison Berwela will be seen perhaps now at featherweight, so both he and Pumicpic will be using tomorrow's lightweight 4 round clash as a stepping stone to their respective divisions.
Expect to see some really skillful work (albeit a little rusty!) from Richard Pumicpic and Edison Berwela in Paranaque City tomorrow. Both boys are main event fighters when at their peak, so it's fantastic to see them doing their thing tomorrow.
DOMINATION Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Elorde Flash Grand Ballroom
Paranaque City, Manila
Saturday May 14th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The Ultimate Knockout Challenge "Domination " is only days away, but when you are making your debut, that can seem an eternity !
Elorde prospect Clarence Breboneria is one of a quality group having their first pro bout this Saturday, when he takes on Dennis Irenio in what should be a cracking 130lb bout. Breboneria is definitely one to keep your eye on, as he has more than held his own sparring far more experienced fighters in his preparation.
In contrast, team mate JL Laurente is a virtual "old hand", having won his first three matches. His most recent appearance resulted in a draw with the vastly improved Jufel Salina, and a repeat of that form will see him very hard to beat this Saturday.
DOMINATION Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday May 14th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
In a great and often see-sawing battle over 8 rounds, Linn Sandstrom gained a majority decision over a gritty Floryvic Montero.
In a match where both girls displayed good touches, it was perhaps the accuracy of Sandstrom that laid the platform for the win.
Philippines Montero looked excellent in patches, and no doubt contended with some ring rust, but showed she will be a vastly improved fighter at her next appearance.
Philippines Floryvic Montero and Sweden's Linn Sandstrom just made weight for tomorrow night's clash in Newcastle Australia.
Multi discipline fighter Montero was slightly the heavier, but both girls looked in great shape and are sure to create fireworks when the bell goes.
Sandstrom is now based in Australia, and was a recent visitor to Manila in March, where she fought on the undercard of the Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat WBA title event.
This was a classic match up, held at the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake in the Vietnam capital of Hanoi.
This fight attracted a crowd of 25,000 people, and a television audience of millions.
Expect to see another big Victory8 event make its long awaited return in HCMC later this year.
Recent Philippines visitor Linn "Sandstorm" Sandstrom returns to the ring in Newcastle, Australia next Wednesday night.
Linn takes on the very versatile pinay Floryvic Montero.
Sandstrom has made no secret of the fact that she is a relative newcomer to boxing, and is playing catch up to learn as much as she can in short time. The Swedish boxer has 4 wins on her resume, and the clash with Philippines Montero, should prove to be a great contest and valuable ring time for both girls.
And to think, Linn Sandstrom started out as a table tennis player !
The Games and Amusement Board recognized Philippines best boxer Charly Suarez, naming him their " Boxer of the month" in their recently released March ratings.
"Charly Suarez stuns Tomjune Mangubat with a 12 round TKO and bags the WBA Asia Super Featherweight title at the Elorde Sports complex in Paranaque City, March 12th, under VSP Promotions. "
Congratulations to the King's Warrior and wishing you continued success in your exciting career ahead. You work extremely hard to make the impossible look easy, and you put a smile on the faces of Philippines fight fans. Bravo !!
Philippines young gun Delmar Pellio will arrive in Vietnam tomorrow, two days in advance of Saturday's big boxing event to be held in Ho Tram in the south of Vietnam.
Pellio is set to lock horns with promising Vietnam fighter Dinh Hong Quan in a battle for the IBF Asia Lightweight title. And as the picture neatly shows, this pinoy warrior is primed for battle!
Delmar Pellio enters the contest with 9 wins and one loss.
Dinh Hong Quan owns a strong performance card of his own, winning 7 of his 8 bouts to date.
Delmar Pellio will rise to 135 pounds for his Vietnam assignment, and it will be interesting to see how well he adapts to a less frenetic but heavier punching weight class. Based on his size and fight style, expect the strong pinoy southpaw to really shine as a Lightweight !
That said, expect nothing less than a baptism of fire when pitted against a fiercely proud Vietnamese boxer, they are absolute killers!
Dinh Hong Quan is very much cut from that same cloth, and like Pellio, is a promising young boxer on the rise.
These two fighters have very similar levels of strength, skills and durability, so expect this fight to be non stop action and head to the judges scorecards.
DELMAR PELLIO v DINH HONG QUAN
Saturday April 23rd
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The King's Warrior Charly Suarez at this morning's training session in Manila, and already looking in pristine condition.
Suarez returned to the city last week from his home in Davao, and will now begin work in earnest for his upcoming assignment.
What's coming next for Suarez ?
News breaking soon.
Watch this space!
Manila super lightweight Argie "Bomba" Toquero is back in action Saturday April 23rd when he takes on Abdurasul Ismoilov for the vacant WBO Oriental title.
The return marks a more than two year absence for the injury plagued southpaw, who's most recent effort was in beating Jimmy Borbon way back in February of 2020. Timing and power are the assets of the strongly built Toquero, who has scored 10 stoppages in his 13 wins.
Uzbekistan's Abdurasul Ismoilov is a formidable opponent, and is when based in Vietnam, he regularly spars at the VSP Gym in HCMC.
Whilst better known at lightweight, Ismoilov is a really technical southpaw, who has the ability to seamlessly shift stance. A winner of 9 of his 10 bouts, and robbed in his losing bout, it's hard not to be impressed with the skills of the Uzbekistan fighter. He is always well balanced, and similar to Toquero, he boasts plenty of firepower.
This is a high quality match up, and we will bring it to you live from the Ho Tram Casino resort on Saturday April 23.
RoyRoy Sumugat and the "Bomba" Toquero looking the goods after a torrid spar in Manila earlier today !
Top lightweight prospect Delmar Pellio is ready to return to the ring on Saturday April 23 when he ventures to Vietnam. The match against Dinh Hong Quan (7 - 1)
will be held at the Ho Tram Casino, which sits directly in front of the beach, maybe 150km south of HCMC.
Pellio has shown huge potential in his career thus far, and despite being unbeaten in 9 fights, he struggled to get regular and meaningful opponents. He faced a considerable rise in grade last December when he faced the world class Charly Suarez, yet produced an outstanding and courageous effort that won the hearts of fans. The King's Warrior Suarez was quick to praise his young opponent, and enthused that he had a good future in the sport. Similarly, those that have sparred with the southpaw Pellio have found his workrate, timing, strength and boxing brain very hard to beat.
There is no doubt the bout with Suarez was a great learning curve for Delmar Pellio, and he will need all of that knowledge when he takes on Vietnam warrior Dinh Hong Quan.
Lorenz Ladrada is one of the many talented Mindanao fighters to compete in Manila in recent events.
The participation of visitor fighters to Luzon, amidst the difficulties the Elorde team encountered to even create events during lockdown, definitely deserves special mention.
At TIGER 2O22, Tomjune Mangubat, Charly Suarez, and Ronnie Baldonado formed three parts of the two headline fights - all Mindanao boys.
Lorenz "Cerberus" Ladrada is a proud son of the mountains, hailing from Malitbog Bukidnon, so it is fantastic to see his family and friends get behind his journey, and even receive a salutation from the mayor.
Well done to Lorenz Ladrada and all the fighters that have managed to keep the faith and stay competitive in these hard times.
This super lightweight prospect trained at the Olivetti Gym started 2022 in great fashion, edging the dangerous Roberto Gonzales in a sequel fight.
The victory pushed the career tally of Rodrigo to 7 wins, with 5 by stoppage, and this young fighter appears to possess plenty of upside.
Expect to see the "Silent Beast " to continue to make big noise in the boxing ring in future assignments.