JonJon Estrada is surely the Philippines’ most popular and iconic fighter!
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is unleashed again this December, taking his superhero persona and hammer like fists to The Grand Ho Tram.
Estrada, known as "the Wolverine", has achieved cult status courtesy of his "don't die wondering" fighting style.
JonJon Estrada has perfected a low, stalking attack that has opponents constantly retreating, often to a violent demise. His record of 14 knockouts from his 15 wins paints a stark picture, as does his ominous bludgeoning of those that go toe to toe. The Wolverine had a blistering 2021, winning his last three bouts with stoppages that would get most men arrested ! And he carried that menace into 2022. And now it is Vietnam's turn !
Australian trainer Tony Del Vecchio sung the praises of JonJon Estrada recently :
" I love the pinoy style, they are always very physical, combative and exciting. They turn up to entertain, and to hurt. I have seen some big hitters in the Philippines, but I swear, this guy JonJon Estrada is the scariest puncher I have seen ! Man, the guy has a serious chin too, I saw him fight Suarez, and what can I say, I'm a big fan!"
The Wolverine is as complicated as he is simple. To defeat him, you need to avoid being knocked out. Sounds simple enough !
The Wolverine heads to the Esforta Arena Hachioji in Tokyo today, pitted against hot young local prospect Kai Watanabe (9-1).
The Japanese bout will see Estrada jump up a weight class to Super Featherweight, so Watanabe will prove a "Tall" order.
JonJon Estrada is one of the toughest and hardest hitters in Philippines boxing, so he should have his share of fun in there despite the ominous task.
Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada make great fights, and Saturday's was no different.
Minus the little kerfuffle near the end, where both boys were getting frustrated, and it was a really good contest with plenty of to and fro.
JonJon Estrada is known for his power, and although he showed more patience than usual in the longer duration 10 round bout, he still found time for some signature Wolverine moves.
Ladies and gentlemen - I give you, the very deadly lead left hook !
"I'm the best at what I do, but what I do, IS NOT VERY NICE!" - Wolverine
Can JonJon Estrada overcome the Tornado that is Pablito Canada?
5 days to wait!
ESTRADA v CANADA 4
JonJon Estrada, Jino Rodrigo, and Enrique Magsalin headline a great card at Angono Gym this weekend. That's some serious firepower right there !!
3 days to go
ENGKWENTRO ng mga
KAMAO sa ANGONO
Angono Gym, Angono, Rizal
Sabado, Mayo 27, 2023 3:00 pm
Pablito Canada has found the Wolverine to be his kryptonite in their previous three meetings.
In each match, Pablito Canada has looked the winner at various stages, only to fall victim to the relentless punishment of JonJon Estrada.
Canada says we will see a very different game plan and result this Saturday.
Great fight AGAIN !! Estrada Canada #4
"I'm the best at what I do, but what I do, IS NOT VERY NICE!" - Wolverine
Can JonJon Estrada overcome the Tornado that is Pablito Canada?
5 days to wait!
ESTRADA v CANADA 4
We got Canada v Estrada #2 coming tomorrow !
Their first clash was fight of the year, and it's on again, as Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada made weight just moments ago.
These two killers go at it in a "no place for the faint hearted" featherweight war tomorrow in Parañaque City.
Both fighters approach tomorrow's clash brimming with confidence, having executed stoppage wins at their most recent appearances.
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is especially adept in this department, and some would say an expert.
He has put opponents to the canvas in 14 of his 15 victories !! Ouch !!
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Jonjon Estrada does fight week better than most.
He also does remorseless acts of violence pretty damn well too.
14 Knockouts in his 15 wins sends a frightening message as to how he likes to get the job done.
Blunt force trauma and maniacal bludgeoning !
This is the life of the Wolverine.
JonJon Estrada v Pablito Canada
6 rounds Featherweight 126lb
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Manila's Pablito Canada had a career record that included a run of losses, but all against the big dogs, and they were bouts where he was responsible for some great performances.
So when he faced JonJon Estrada, he knew he was facing a dangerous yet flawed fighter, and it was a match that he was super confident of winning.
Estrada v Canada was a slugfest, and in spite of Pablito reversing his fortunes and putting the Wolverine in trouble, he ultimately fell for the trap of going toe to toe with a knockout artist.
Canada was quick to make amends, travelling to the backyard of hot Mindanao prospect Michael Casama, and stopping the unbeaten boxer in the 8th round.
Pablito Canada now turns his eyes to the Wolverine, and feels he has unfinished business with the man with two fists of iron.
This will be a mega fight.
Both boxers are predicting an early night for their opponent.
Pablito Canada v JonJon Estrada
6 rounds Featherweight 126lb
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1240692073325093/
JonJon Estrada meets Pablito Canada for the second time at UKC REVOLUTION 2O23 next Monday.
Their first fight was one of the most exciting of the year, with Canada dropped multiple times, and Estrada significantly wobbled. To make things even more interesting, Pablito Canada has rebounded since with an outstanding knockout win over the previously unbeaten Michael Casama. Canada has chased Estrada to avenge their initial meeting, and is confident of reversing the result.
The Wolverine has achieved cult like status because of his stalking predatory style, and his remorseless bludgeoning of opponents. His record of 14 knockouts in 15 wins bellows a cautionary tale.
So JonJon, any words to your opponent before your upcoming match ?
"Yes. Wear a crash helmet !"
Nice advice Mr. Estrada.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/5770077586363099
The closest thing Manila has to a modern day super hero is right now on a blood lust, and he is counting the days for his ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 at the end of this month.
The Wolverine is back, and is already in what appears to be menacing shape, all set to face a previous and very determined foe - Pablito Canada.
Canada pulled off an outstanding knockout performance last start against the unbeaten Michael Casama, and is confident about repeating the dose with JonJon Estrada. The tall and rangy fighter considered himself unlucky when he previously tackled the Wolverine, and has been desperate to make amends ever since.
JonJon Estrada remains unimpressed by the rejuvenated Pablito Canada.
"I have trained hard to make it a great fight, and I will be doing my very best to win."
It could be argued that Canada was the victim of the wrong game plan when these two featherweights met previously.
In what was likely the "fight of the year", Pablito Canada decided to go toe to toe rather than box with the shorter Estrada. This proved to be his undoing, despite the fact that he undoubtedly has power, as he emphasized with the Casama stoppage.
So are we likely to see another trench warfare between Estrada and Canada ?
"I will come forward because that is my style. I love to bang, and if Pablito wants to also, it's perfect with me !
I promise to make the match exciting for the fans, and I love to make the big knockouts. Everyone will see the Wolverine in the ring very soon. I'm ready to hunt and kill!" offered the quietly spoken, but brooding JonJon Estrada.
Hard to imagine this one going the distance - Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada are both predicting KNOCKOUT.
Don't miss this one, its possibly the bout of the day.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
January 30 locked in.
And so is one of the Philippines' most chaotic fighters of all time - the man who wrote the book
"DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES"
Yes it's THE WOLVERINE JonJon Estrada
Full fight card coming soon.
JonJon Estrada is set for a January 30 return to the ring, after a dominant performance in Vietnam earlier this month.
News on an opponent and January fight card coming soon.
Opening bout action between the merciless Wolverine JonJon Estrada and Muay Thai champ "Nak Su" Thai Hoang Huy.
Estrada brings his trademark violence to Vietnam!
JonJon Estrada enjoys the flowers and trophy moments after experiencing his first time victory in Vietnam. The Wolverine debuted in the only way he knows how - with a stoppage win, over local Muay Thai fighter Thai Hoang Huy. Estrada appeared very relaxed in the opening round, yet dropped his Vietnam opponent with a two punch combo. He then closed the show in the 4th round with Thai Hoang Huy unable to answer the Wolverine's beserk attack while pinned to the ropes.
FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS
All the action from 7 great bouts at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino :
OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
Thai Hoang Huy 57.2kg (Vietnam)
JonJon Estrada 56.9kg (Philippines)
Jetro Pabustan, JonJon Estrada and Mark John Yap looking impossibly handsome and ready for Fortunes of War this morning in Ho Tram.
GIRLS - TAKE A TICKET AND WAIT YOUR TURN !
Vietnam Tiger Thai Hoang Huy meets his hero "The Wolverine" Jonjon Estrada for the first time today.
Vietnam and Philippines are great competitors, and today's friends will be fierce combatants at FORTUNES OF WAR this Saturday at The Grand Ho Tram Resort.
THREE WISE MONKEYS SPEAK NO EVIL
Deeds speak louder than words, and these three killers plan to do their talking in the ring this Saturday night at FORTUNES OF WAR in Ho Tram Vietnam.
Jetro Pabustan, JonJon Estrada and Mark John Yap enjoy a healthy meal and will leave for The Grand Ho Tram later today.
The trio have promised fight fans they will bring all guns loaded and put on a display that fight fans will never forget.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
Jonjon Estrada was recently ranked #1 in the Philippines for Featherweight division. Listen to his experience and what he thinks about Vietnam and the upcoming fight.
The Wolverine is in stone cold menacing form at today's media day !
JonJon Estrada confirmed at today's interview that there will be no mercy coming for his Vietnam opponent :
"The Wolverine is ready to go BESERK !"
JonJon Estrada v Thai Hoang Huy
4 rounds Featherweight 57kg
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Live from 6pm Vietnam 7pm Philippines
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
MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !
FIGHT 1 Thai Hoang Huy v JonJon Estrada
THAI HOANG HUY Debut
26 yrs old / Orthodox / Nak Su / 170cm / 57kg Featherweight
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam / Maxkado Gym HCMC
When talking about the fabled Vietnamese Tiger fighting spirit, they surely must have based the narrative around Thai Hoang Huy !
This former HCMC Muay Thai champion fell in love with boxing only in recent times, and will make his debut against an absolute killer named JonJon Estrada - a man who has created absolute carnage in just about every fight he contests.
Estrada has scored 15 wins as a professional and owns THE BEST knockout stats in the featherweight division - 14 of his victims have been put to sleep !
And Thai Hoang Huy has NEVER even competed in a boxing match !
His ring name is Nak Su, which naturally enough,means WARRIOR. .
So what are the upsides for this apparently “out of his depth” upstart Nak Su ?
Huy is big and strong, and has a hardened body and resolve from his years of Muay Thai. He is also very agile and athletic, and he likely holds a speed advantage over the Philippines’ Estrada.
Thai Hoang Huy is very aware of his assignment.against Estrada, and has studied the aggressive crouching style of his opponent, and the angles at which he leverages his biggest and most hurtful punches. He is confident that he has the game plan to subdue the destructive Wolverine., and he is looking forward to the challenge.
Huy is clearly the least experienced of these Vietnam debutants, and he has the most dangerous task, but if he can avoid knockout, then he certainly has the athletic prowess to have good moments in this match. It will clearly create huge interest to see how a Muay Thai champion fares with an absolute knockout artist in the boxing arena.
JONJON ESTRADA 15 wins
33 yrs old / Orthodox / Wolverine / 165cm / 57kg Featherweight
San Andres, Quezon, Philippines / VSP Elorde Gym Manila
JonJon Estrada is surely the Philippines’ most popular and iconic fighter!
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is unleashed again this December, taking his superhero persona and hammer like fists to The Grand Ho Tram.
Estrada, known as "the Wolverine", has achieved cult status courtesy of his "don't die wondering" fighting style.
JonJon Estrada has perfected a low, stalking attack that has opponents constantly retreating, often to a violent demise. His record of 14 knockouts from his 15 wins paints a stark picture, as does his ominous bludgeoning of those that go toe to toe. The Wolverine had a blistering 2021, winning his last three bouts with stoppages that would get most men arrested ! And he carried that menace into 2022. And now it is Vietnam's turn !
Australian trainer Tony Del Vecchio sung the praises of JonJon Estrada recently :
" I love the pinoy style, they are always very physical, combative and exciting. They turn up to entertain, and to hurt. I have seen some big hitters in the Philippines, but I swear, this guy JonJon Estrada is the scariest puncher I have seen ! Man, the guy has a serious chin too, I saw him fight Suarez, and what can I say, I'm a big fan!"
The Wolverine is as complicated as he is simple. To defeat him, you need to avoid being knocked out. Sounds simple enough !
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
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 !
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
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.
This great pic was from the Reboot show way back in February 2021, and it was a major accomplishment by Mam Cucuy Elorde to pull it off!
Charly Suarez had been inactive (as were all local pinoy fighters) and the pandemic was proving to be a terrible time for many boxers who could not return home, and even worse, having a daily battle to feed themselves and their families.
VSP asked Mam Cucuy if it was possible to create a show so that Charly Suarez could resume his career. Despite all odds, she put together a great card that also unearthed another big talent - the Wolverine JonJon Estrada!
The event was aptly named Reboot "New Beginning" ,and even though there were only 5 bouts, and the boxers had to endure a "quarantine bubble", it was a lot of fun and marked the start of boxing again in the Philippines.
Boxers that starred at THE BEGINNING :
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada
King's Warrior Charly Suarez
Cerberus Lorenz Ladrada
Remon "Bad Bad" Basas
Ali "Carnage" Cañega
Apocalypse Glenn Bismanos
The Sniper Ben Ligas
The Bull Alphoe Dagayloan
The Prince Andrew Laurio
Ranny "the Cleaner" Quizo
JonJon Estrada and Yushi Fujita make weight in Osaka Japan earlier today.
Fujita is a tall and rangy fighter with 9 wins, and like most of his countrymen, is strong and durable.
But Estrada carries the Equalizer, that being the sleeping pills he confidently holds in both hands, and owning a long history of violence, having "slept" 14 opponents in his 15 wins !
This is a great match up because Fujita likes to trade, and this may play directly into the sharpened claws of the man known as THE WOLVERINE !
Cris Ganoza, JonJon Estrada and Roland Jay Biendima at Ninoy Aquino Airport pictured early this morning, and bound for Osaka Japan.All three Elorde boys will fight this Sunday, but at two different events.Cris Ganoza meets unbeaten Goki Kobayashi on the same card as Roland Biendima, who matches up with Tetsuro Ohashi.Meanwhile, in another part of Osaka, if they are hearing blood curdling screams, you will know why!The Wolverine JonJon Estrada goes to war with Yushi Fujita, and this will be EPIC! Fujita loves to trade, and has the style that really plays into the hands of the Philippines cult hero and KO specialist Estrada. This will definitely be an action fan's dream fight, and a very clear example of, you get to live or die by the sword !Great match up but predicting a Wolverine victory in Osaka !
Yes! Saturday is work day too! These three Elorde boys are busy honing the skills and building bone and muscle. Jules Victoriano just returned from Vietnam, where he had a huge encounter with local lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan.
Cris Ganoza and the Wolverine have exciting times ahead, and will venture to Japan this month. Ganoza takes on unbeaten Goki Kobayashi, whilst Estrada looks to put the claws into Yushi Fujita.
WATCH OUT JAPAN!
KNOCKOUT artist Jon Jon Estrada looks to continue his winning streak as he takes on Japanese Kyonosuke Kameda in an eight-round bout on July 23, 2022 at the Edion Arena in Osaka, Japan.
The 33-year-old Estrada won four straight contests since losing to former Olympian Charly Suarez last year. He destroyed Rex Wao, Pablito Canada, Jestine Tesoro and his most recent former ALA Boy Jess Rhey Waminal. He knocked out Waminal in four rounds last March 12 in Parañaque City.
Estrada has already fought twice in Japan. He scored a seventh round knockout of Tasuku Nakagawa in 2018 in his first visit. He lost to Koshin Takeshima by unanimous decision in his second trip to the "Land of the Rising Sun."
The 23-year-old Kameda is looking to bounce back after losing his last fight against Hiroki Hanabusa by unanimous decision.
Kameda is a former Japan Boxing Commission featherweight champion. He won back-to-back fights against Daiki Asai and Tsubasa Narai before his latest defeat.
Estrada is 15-8-1 with 14 knockouts, while Kameda is 7-3-1 with six knockouts.
Estrada is the eighth Pinoy boxer to fight in Japan this month. Four-division world champions Nonito Donaire and Donnie Nietes, Froilan Saludar, Presco Carcosia, Jhon Gemino, Chris Ganoza and Tesoro all fought in Japan this month and lost their respective fights.
*story courtesy of SunStar
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.
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!
MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !
FIGHT 2: Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
LE HOANG HIEP Debut
22 yrs old / Orthodox / Young Blood / 162cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight
Nam Dinh, Vietnam / Matrix Boxing HCMC
Young Blood, Thug Life, Saigon Psycho, Street Vigga - Russian born Hiep goes by many names, but they all point to a central truth. This young Viet is equal parts crazy brave and crazy mad ! But he can fight too !
Competing with grown men in amateur tournaments when just a teen, Le Hoang Hiep showed loads of potential, but unfortunately the pandemic and the closure of all Vietnam gyms halted that potential growth. Temporarily at least !
VSP put out advertisements looking for young Viet prospects looking to gain experience against visiting pros, and Hiep was one of the very first to respond. Despite being only a true 51kg Flyweight, Hiep begged for the Bantamweight clash with Philippines Jetro Pabustan.
“Get me that bitch Pabustan, he will be mine”!. And so the job was awarded to Hiep !
Prior to the pandemic, Le Hoang Hiep showed that he has the makings of a good pro.
He boasts plenty of speed and power, and he also showed good timing in high level amateur bouts that he contested. And the guy is super tough.!
If there was to be a query on Hiep in this bout, it would be to do with his jump of three weight classes and his ability to maintain workrate against the heavier Philippines boxer. Pabustan.is well known for his fitness, and as Hiep only commenced training recently, 4 rounds will seem an eternity against the bigger Jetro Pabustan.
JETRO PABUSTAN 31 wins
32 yrs old / Southpaw / Silent Operator / 168cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight
Malapatan, Sarangani, Philippines / VSP Elorde Manila
Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!
The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.
The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.
Jetro Pabustan will look to erase that disappointment and make an emphatic statement here in Vietnam.
MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !
FIGHT 1 Thai Hoang Huy v JonJon Estrada
THAI HOANG HUY Debut
26 yrs old / Orthodox / Nak Su / 170cm / 57kg Featherweight
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam / Maxkado Gym HCMC
When talking about the fabled Vietnamese Tiger fighting spirit, they surely must have based the narrative around Thai Hoang Huy !
This former HCMC Muay Thai champion fell in love with boxing only in recent times, and will make his debut against an absolute killer named JonJon Estrada - a man who has created absolute carnage in just about every fight he contests.
Estrada has scored 15 wins as a professional and owns THE BEST knockout stats in the featherweight division - 14 of his victims have been put to sleep !
And Thai Hoang Huy has NEVER even competed in a boxing match !
His ring name is Nak Su, which naturally enough,means WARRIOR. .
So what are the upsides for this apparently “out of his depth” upstart Nak Su ?
Huy is big and strong, and has a hardened body and resolve from his years of Muay Thai. He is also very agile and athletic, and he likely holds a speed advantage over the Philippines’ Estrada.
Thai Hoang Huy is very aware of his assignment.against Estrada, and has studied the aggressive crouching style of his opponent, and the angles at which he leverages his biggest and most hurtful punches. He is confident that he has the game plan to subdue the destructive Wolverine., and he is looking forward to the challenge.
Huy is clearly the least experienced of these Vietnam debutants, and he has the most dangerous task, but if he can avoid knockout, then he certainly has the athletic prowess to have good moments in this match. It will clearly create huge interest to see how a Muay Thai champion fares with an absolute knockout artist in the boxing arena.
JONJON ESTRADA 15 wins
33 yrs old / Orthodox / Wolverine / 165cm / 57kg Featherweight
San Andres, Quezon, Philippines / VSP Elorde Gym Manila
JonJon Estrada is surely the Philippines’ most popular and iconic fighter!
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is unleashed again this December, taking his superhero persona and hammer like fists to The Grand Ho Tram.
Estrada, known as "the Wolverine", has achieved cult status courtesy of his "don't die wondering" fighting style.
JonJon Estrada has perfected a low, stalking attack that has opponents constantly retreating, often to a violent demise. His record of 14 knockouts from his 15 wins paints a stark picture, as does his ominous bludgeoning of those that go toe to toe. The Wolverine had a blistering 2021, winning his last three bouts with stoppages that would get most men arrested ! And he carried that menace into 2022. And now it is Vietnam's turn !
Australian trainer Tony Del Vecchio sung the praises of JonJon Estrada recently :
" I love the pinoy style, they are always very physical, combative and exciting. They turn up to entertain, and to hurt. I have seen some big hitters in the Philippines, but I swear, this guy JonJon Estrada is the scariest puncher I have seen ! Man, the guy has a serious chin too, I saw him fight Suarez, and what can I say, I'm a big fan!"
The Wolverine is as complicated as he is simple. To defeat him, you need to avoid being knocked out. Sounds simple enough !
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
Indonesia’s #1 Defry Palulu is in career best shape, and has been working on angles and power shots to halt the meteoric rise of Philippines #1 Charly Suarez.
It is widely acknowledged that getting a points decision against Suarez is not possible, and the Palulu team are planning to take the result out of the judges hands.
"The Unseen Hammer" has reportedly been engaged in grueling sessions in preparation for Suarez, and while Palulu team are predicting a knockout, they will be fully prepared to go 12 punishing rounds if required.
The video shows Defry Palulu at the end of 8 rounds on pads without rest ( 24 minutes continuously) You will also note, that even fatigued, his southpaw punch angles are awkward, and his power relentless.
Defry Palulu (Indonesia) v Charly Suarez (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Jules Victoriano turns the lights out on Sachin Dekwal !
Elorde's Jules Victoriano scored a stunning stoppage win in Colombo last night, icing champion Sachin Dekwal and taking his WBC Asia Continentsl belt into the bargain.
The southpaw Dekwal had boxed beautifully in the first 6 rounds, showing great hand speed and adept back foot counters.
But Victoriano pushed the action in round 7, connecting with Sachin Dekwal as he was backed against the ropes. After being dropped with a hook, the champion regained his feet, but it was only momentarily, as "Victorious" ruthlessly finished off his victim.
This was a great win by Victoriano, and a perfect statement made after suffering the narrowest of defeats to Vietnam's Dinh Hong Quan for an IBF title recently.
Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje will be looking to avenge that defeat on December 10.
THINGS ARE STARTING TO HEAT UP !
Dinh Hong Quân (Viet) v Arnel Baconaje (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight championship
The main event bout
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Saigon street cred meets the boxing ring !
Le Hoang Hiep aka thug life aka young blood returns to boxing FINALLY after a pandemic enforced holiday.
This kid was only a teenager beating up on grown men before Vietnam closed down in 2020, and when he heard Jetro Pabustan was coming in December, he begged for the assignment.
"But Hiep, Pabustan is an internationally performed and dangerous professional. He's won 31 fights, won regional titles, and even fought in a WBO World Championship. And to make things worse, he's two or three weight classes up above you !"
Young Blood responded :
"I don't care who it is.
Tell that mtfk I just wanna punch on ! Young Blood will fight anyone if the dollars are there!"
Enough said !
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
And this boy plays hard !
Nguyễn Văn Hải returns to the ring at Fortunes of War to take on the unbeaten Indonesian "Geronimo" Paisal Panjaitan.
Hải resumed from a long break from the sport in Manila last August, and was outpointed by exciting prospect Jerald Into.
It was a creditable performance, yet short of the Hanoi hard man's best work, and you can be asdured we will see a vastly improved fighter next month in Ho Tram.
"My fight in Manila was fun, but it taught me important lessons. Indonesia’s man is a very good young boxer, so this time, I must play it very hard to try for victory. Very excited!" commented the Hanoi Hitman.
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
Maybe the best young prospect in Korean boxing, but definitely the proud owner of a killer ring name, Chan-Ho Song, popularly known as Purge Boy, is Vietnam bound !
Currently training in Gen San, Purge Boy has been mixing with the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân and yes, even Pablito Canada !
Chan-Ho Song will head to the Fortunes of War event to defend his WBO Oriental Youth super lightweight title against the hard punching Thai Anuson "BoomBoom" Thonglueang.
Song is unbeaten in 8 bouts, whilst his opponent has been an absolute revelation, destroying 12 fighters in a row after losing his debut. The ring name BoomBoom says it all, and this Thai has knocked out 9 of his victims.
This will be a cracking youth title, and with Thonglueang at 18 years, and Song at 19, the sky is the limit for these two young firebrands.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
The Fortunes of War will introduce some of Asia's best fighters to Vietnam, and be advised, Indonesia are sending their "A" TEAM !
Paisal Panjaitan, coach and manager Armin Tan,and Defry Palulu formed an intimidating triumvirate pictured after yesterday's training.
And the team are pumped for bold showings at The Grand Ho Tram.
Paisal Panjaitan has been boxing less than 5 years, yet has already chalked up three impressive wins in his short time in boxing. "Geronimo" is in stark contrast to his Vietnam opponent Nguyễn Văn Hải, a legendary fighter who is adept in multiple
fight forms, and has dedicated most of his life to martial arts.
Defry Palulu is likely the best performed Indonesian boxer since the legendary Chris John, and he has amassed 25 wins and a WBA Asia title in his superb career. The southpaw with the ominous ring name of "the Unseen Hammer" will tackle Philippines quicksilver Charly Suarez in the main undercard of the night.
Vietnam staged events such as Fortunes of War offer the fans a great opportunity to see the best fighting the best, but also give everyone a glimpse of the different styles and faces that international boxers bring, and VSP extends a warm welcome to the talented and hard working Indonesian team.
Thank you for your support Indonesia, you add much needed dimension and colour to our event, and we wish you truly great performances.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Five Philippines stars are heading to Vietnam for the iconic Fortunes of War event at The Grand Ho Tram, and these boys aren't skipping ABS DAY !
Victory8 world team member Claudevan Sese and boxer Joseph Omana joined Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap at today's workout, and these two are planning on putting on something special in Vietnam next month.
Pabustan will tackle the former Russian gang member Le Hoang Hiep, whilst the Journey Man Mark John Yap has an all action match up with Phan Minh Quân, an excellent local prospect that had won the Ho Chi Minh City youth title before the pandemic.
Pabustan and Yap will be accompanied by JonJon Estrada, Arnel Baconaje and Charly Suarez making this team the strongest Philippines representation to ever descend upon foreign shores.
FORTUNES OF WAR
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.
Charly Suarez has been nothing short of outstanding since turning pro. But if there has been any doubts regarding his ascent to a world title, it's been that he perhaps lacks the killer instinct or power required at the highest level.
But rumors abound that the King’s Warrior never had any intention of hurting his countrymen, and that he was just happy to get valuable rounds in before heading abroad. And the word is, no such luxury will be afforded to any foreign opponents that stand in his way of a world title.
Believe it, or don't !
But if this line of thinking is correct, then one thing is sure, Indonesia’s best best boxer Defry Palulu is in deep trouble !
Here is Charly Suarez facing Domenico Valentino, not long after the Italian won the world amateur Lightweight title. You be the judge.
Philippines have a strong representation in Vietnam on December 10, and Jetro Pabustan will take on the feisty Le Hoang Hiep in what is destined to be a crazy action packed fight at the beachside resort of The Grand HoTram. The Vietnam boxer has a reputation as being unhinged, and in spite of jumping two weight classes, is confident that he can handle the much bigger pinoy boxer.
But for the well traveled Pabustan, he's seen and heard it all before !
Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!
The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.
The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.
Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
4 rounds Bantamweight 55kg
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO
Saturday December 10
With Fortunes of War only weeks away we thought we'd check in with these Vietnam Tigers and see how they are looking in their preparations.
The answer: AMAZING !
These three young prospects are daring to dream big, and will be fighting professional stars from the Philippines on December 10.
They are all on steep learning paths, and it will be a significant task just to survive their battles in Ho Tram.
(Thee princes from left)
Le Hoang Hiep fights Jetro Pabustan.
Phan Minh Quân fights Mark John Yap.
Thai Hoang Huy fights JonJon Estrada.
The boys are in super shape already and are almost at their assigned fighting weights.
Good luck to our Vietnam warriors!
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Hanoi boxer Nguyễn Văn Hải competed in his first match in almost 3 years this past August. In what was viewed as a welcome back contest in Manila for Hai, he came away with a points loss, and a bagful of "what if" scenarios on his performance. The end result was a steely resolve to make amends for that defeat as soon as possible.
Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam, and he returns to his love for boxing on December 10 at the Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
Hai was a highly decorated amateur in younger days, having won multiple national titles and achieving medals at the SEA Games. In spite of those successes, the revered Hanoi legend has had precious few chances to box in recent years.
Hai was intent on embarking on a pro career back in 2019, and signed with VSP to pursue that ambition. The pandemic put the brakes on those plans, and unfortunately, Hai did not see any ring time until August of this year.
Nguyễn Văn Hải ventured to Manila to take on rangy southpaw prospect Jerald Into, and despite incurring a points loss, it was a decent display for a boxer with lots of ring rust. The Vietnam fighter certainly showed many of the trademark moves of his amateur days, but his distance, timing and punch volume were below the required level. But he actually looked very good, and it will no doubt be a vastly improved, and perhaps vengeful, boxer that returns to the ring at The Grand Ho Tram on December 10.
This boxer dubbed "the Hanoi Hitman" will look to reverse that loss in Manila, and he will be determined to teach his whiz kid Indonesian rival some veteran tricks of the trade !
The biggest belt matches are coming to The Grand Ho Tram this December !
Dinh Hong Quân defends his IBF Lightweight crown against the Philippines lethal Arnel Baconaje in what will go down as a fight for tge ages. This one is as close to a 50/50 as you will ever get !
Indonesia’s best Defry Palulu heads to Ho Tram to take on very likely the best technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced - the quicksilver Charly Suarez. But in spite of his unbeaten record, there are doubters that suggest he doesn't have the power to make the same impact that Manny Pacquiao has made on the sport. Defry Palulu is a former WBC champ, and Suarez the WBA King, so both camps are justified in their confidence in securing the IBF 130lb belt.
And what about this one for a torrid clash ?
19 year old Chan-Ho Song from South Korea takes on 18 year old Anuson Thonglueang for the WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight title in an 8 round bout where both boxers aim to destroy the other. The Thai has had 10 bouts this year, and has literally decapitated his opposition.
And Chan-Ho Song, who is unbeaten in 8 fights, is certainly living up to his ring name of "Purge Boy" !
Three classic championship bouts, and four other hell fire contests, so who wants some ?
WHO'S COMING TO THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 10 ?
If you can't get there, don't panic, you can watch all the action here live !
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
FORTUNES OF WAR - FULL FIGHT CARD
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
South Korea meets Thailand in what is sure to be a firefight in the super lightweight 140lb category.
Chan Ho Song is a star on the rise, and could very easily develop into the best pro that South Korea has produced in recent years. At only 19 years of age, he has already chalked up 8 straight wins, and tellingly, has improved out of sight every time that he has entered the ring. This boy is very different to the traditional dour, gritty Korean style that you are maybe familiar with.
Song is fast, has a high workrate, nice footwork, and really works some clever angles. He is definitely durable, and he is developing some power to go with his accurate hands. This is a certainly a boxer to watch for the future - he will be top level !
Anuson Thonglueang has already created some media attention in Thailand, where he has put together 12 wins with only one loss in extra quick time. Similar to his South Korean counterpart, he is a dynamic all action fighter, and he really knows how to be effective inside the ropes.
Whilst his opponents have been lesser calibre than Song, he has dispatched them convincingly, and with real menace ! Anuson Thonglueang as obliterated 9 of his 12 victims by knockout, so Chan Ho Song will need to be careful of engaging in a trading battle with this dangerous Thai.
Chan Ho Song and Anuson Thonglueang will lock horns for the WBO Oriental Youth title.
Chan Ho Song v Anuson Thonglueang
8 rounds WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam, and he returns to his love for boxing on December 10 at the Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
Hai was a highly decorated amateur in younger days, but has had precious few chances to box in recent years. He was intent on embarking on a pro career back in 2019, and signed with VSP to pursue that ambition. The pandemic put the brakes on those plans, and Hai did not see ring time until August of this year.
Nguyễn Văn Hải ventured to Manila to take on rangy southpaw prospect Jerald Into, and despite a points loss, it was a decent display for a boxer with lots of ring rust.
The boxer dubbed the Hanoi Hitman will look to build on that loss, and will be joined at The Grand Ho Tram by four other Vietnam fighters.
Dinh Hong Quân will contest the main event, while novice prospects Pham Minh Quân, Le Hoang Hiep and Thai Hoang Huy will take on top class Philippines boxers in the undercard bouts.
Indonesia’s Paisal Panjaitan creates an exquisite and intriguing match up with Vietnam's Nguyễn Văn Hải. At face value, their fight stats are remarkably similar, and both like to box out of the orthodox stance. But that's where the similarity ends.
Nguyễn Văn Hải has been immersed in "fighting" for more than 20 years, and has been a high level amateur. In contrast, Paisal Panjaitan has been boxing for less than 5 years, and is clearly still learning the trade. That said, it's transparent that he has improved markedly with each performance, and his energy levels will obviously prove a challenge to his Vietnam opponent. Panjaitan is tough too!
Unbeaten in 3 fights, he absorbed punishment yet won each contest convincingly.
This Vietnam v Indonesia match up will be over 4 rounds, so expect to see fireworks in this one, as both these talented fighters will be looking to impose their will.
Really looking forward to this one !
Nguyễn Văn Hải v Paisal Panjaitan
4 rounds Lightweight 135lb
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!
Saturday December 10 Fortunes of War !
WBC champion Defry Palulu was meant to fight a novice professional named Charly Suarez back in March 2020.
The fight was canceled due to the pandemic !
Indonesia’s best fighter and his team were supremely confident of victory, and rightfully so.
Palulu was on a hot winning streak with a 21-2 record, which compared very favourably with the King's Warrior's 3-0 relative inexperience !
Fast forward to The Grand Ho Tram Vietnam on Saturday December 10, and now the clash of two of Asia's very best 130lb fighters, who were always destined to meet - has been set !
Defry Palulu has now recaptured his pre-pandemic form with four successive wins since resuming.
Charly Suarez has stayed busy at home, picking up wins against quality locals, and grabbing WBA and Philippines national titles in the process.
Palulu feels that Suarez doesnt have the power to make an impact at top level. It's an opinion that has even been echoed by many in the Philippines. The Indonesian is also of the belief that previous opponents have allowed the pinoy star to impose his "amateur" style way too easily. He contends that many have simply followed Suarez around the ring, thus falling victim to his mesmerizing hand and foot speed.
The Indonesian southpaw champion says all of that nonsense will finish on December 10 in Vietnam !
It seems hard to imagine anybody in world boxing outpointing Philippines' Charly Suarez, but can he be stopped ?
"That is our plan ! Team Palulu have worked very hard for this, and we will not let this opportunity slip.
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 IBF champion on December 10."
Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight 130lb
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
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
Indonesia’s top fighter Defry Palulu is Vietnam bound, and intent on reclaiming his lofty place in the world rankings.
The accomplished southpaw was the WBC Asia champion back in 2019, and was looking to leverage that belt towards some bigger bouts.
He was actually slated to fight novice professional Charly Suarez back in March 2020, a match that he was confident of winning, and one where he undoubtedly would have started a betting favourite.
But the pandemic made a mess of best laid plans, and Palulu was stripped of his WBC belt due to his inability to defend that title. Boxing in Indonesia had completely shut down, and the champion was without a bout for almost 2 years !
Now the Unseen Hammer is back !
Defry Palulu has won 4 on the trot since resuming, taking his impressive tally to 25-2, and has run himself into a rich vein of form.
His most recent win against India #1 Asad Khan was equal parts flawed and impressive, yet it was enough to highlight that Palulu had recaptured his pre-pandemic form.
The Unseen Hammer has a deceptively effective style that has seen him incur only one solitary loss in 8 years - a disputed split decision at that !
He is a southpaw that changes direction and cuts the ring with ease, yet throws punches from unorthodox positions. He varies his power cleverly, and has great insticts when it comes to throwing the "money" shot. Palulu has the sort of thudding power with an often surprising delivery that has deservedly earned him that ring monicker of the "Unseen Hammer".
The Philippines' Charly Suarez has looked outstanding soaring unbeaten in 13 fights, but it is fair to say that Defry Palulu represents a significant test for his debut international bout. Suarez has certainly brought all his wonderful amateur attributes to the pro arena, yet there are many skeptics, and Palulu is one of those.
Despite his skills, many doubt that Charly Suarez has the power to worry the world top 10, and Palulu intends to exploit that deficit. He also believes that Suarez has been "followed" around the ring by previous frustrated opponents, and that he has the tools to cut the ring and corner the Philippines man.
Palulu is confident that the world title charge of Charly Suarez will end on December 10.
That claim remains to be seen, but what is certain, is that this December match in Vietnam will be an intriguing clash of styles and it's a rare treat to get to see two fighters of this calibre in the ring together !
Defry Palulu (Indonesia) v Charly Suarez (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
4 rounds Lightweight 61kg
Vietnam legend Nguyễn Văn Hải will take on hot unbeaten Indonesian boxer Paisal Panjaitan (3-0) at the beachside venue of The Grand Ho Tram next month.
Hai resumed from a very long break for a points loss to the promising Jerald Into, but is sure to be in devastating shape for this Vietnam bout.
Paisal Panjaitan has scored one knockout and two easy points victories in his three wins, and will be looking to make a statement in his first international bout.
HUGE FIGHT !
Action live from The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vietnam
Saturday December 10
It pays to dress for success, and big thanks go out to Raoul Navarrete and the team at Be Athletic for this inspirational fight gear for the huge Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu bout coming up next month in Vietnam.
Now we know that Palulu is touted as one of Indonesia's best fighters since Chris John, and we know he was a WBC champion, and we know he has a 25-2 record, and we know his only loss in 8 years was by controversial split decision, and we know he has even said that Suarez has no power and wont crack the world top ten ........
BUT !!!
Will he look as stylish as Team Suarez?
Ahhhhh that's impossible to imagine!
Watch out Palulu, the Suarez army is coming !
BE ATHLETIC - for all the best boxing and fun sportswear.
Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
December is the month where all the best known boxers in Vietnam will head to Hanoi to compete in the national sports championships.
So how do you find Vietnam prospects that are willing to fight, when all the best known boxers have headed north for the festival?
VSP Promotions recently advertised that three of the Philippines top professional fighters will come to VSP Gym next month, and are also offering to participate in 4 round bouts at Ho Tram on December 10 against any Vietnam boxer brave enough to put their hand up!
So the call from VSP went out :
"We are looking for Vietnam Tigers who are willing to jump in with these professional killers from the Philippines - JonJon Estrada, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan."
We had so many that wanted to test themselves, and despite their lack of experience, there were three brave Vietnam boys who's enthusiasm and appetite for adventure shone through.
Le Hoang Hiep was one of the most fearless, and he begged for the match with Jetro Pabustan. Despite being a 51kg Flyweight and devoid of recent fights, the 22 year old Gorilla was desperate for action, and said "I'll start training from today if you give me a shot at the Silent Operator!"
And so the match was made, "Young Blood" Le Hoang Hiep will have his date with destiny when he meets Jetro Pabustan at The Grand Ho Tram Vietnam on December 10.
Congratulations
young man, but a word of warning, be careful of what you wish for.
As they say SILENCE IS GOLDEN!
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
Mark John Yap takes his ethereal boxing skills to Vietnam on December 10 when he takes on former youth champion Pham Minh Quân.
Quân is one of many quality young fighters that train with Matrix Gym in Ho Chi Minh City, and has taken on an exciting challenge to test his game against one of the Philippines best.
The Journeyman has been in sublime form of late, performing superbly in a WBA Asia match with Charly Suarez, and followed that up with a strong win over tough Papua New Guinea boxer Junior Kauko Raka.
Pham Minh Quân v Mark John Yap
4 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg Exhibition
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
He's part Russki, part Gorilla, and Ho Chi Minh City's street thug Le Hoang Hiep is headed for The Grand Ho Tram this December.
Hiep will compete in an exhibition match with top Philippines' bantamweight Jetro Pabustan, and "Young Blood" is looking forward to the opportunity.
When asked about the task of taking on an internationally performed boxer with 31 wins and a 4kg weight advantage, the Thug Life inspired character was unrestrained in his typically psycho style:
"Tell that boy I'm sending him home to his momma in a zipped bodybag!"
Wow - confidence is definitely KING !
Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
4 rounds Bantamweight exhibition bout
The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vung Tau Vietnam
Saturday December 10
@ The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam !!!
Saturday December 10
Watch all the action live with many of Asia's best :
Vietnam - Nguyen Van Hai and Dinh Hong Quan
Uzbekistan - Olimjon Nazarov
Indonesia - Defry Palulu and Paisal Panjaitan
Philippines - Arnel Baconaje, Mark John Yap, JonJon Estrada, Charly Suarez and Jetro Pabustan
Thailand - Jakrawut Majungoen and Anuson Thonglueang
South Korea - Chan-Ho Song
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
FORMER Olympian and current World Boxing Association Asia super featherweight king Charly Suarez takes on Indonesian Defry Palulu on Dec. 10, 2022, at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vung Tau City, Vietnam.
The 34-year-old Suarez has already become one of the best Pinoy fighters despite only being a pro for just four years. The former amateur standout is dominating the local boxing scene by beating fighters like Marjohn Yap, Tomjune Mangubat, Delmar Pellio and recently Carlo Magali.
Suarez has had an impressive year thus far, winning all his in dominant fashion. He started the year with a 12th-round technical knockout of Mangubat, followed by a one-sided unanimous decision beating of Junny Salogaol. He then outclassed crafty veteran Yap by unanimous decision and also defeated tough Magali also by a unanimous verdict.
Suarez is now finally ranked in the World Boxing Council at No. 37 in the super featherweight class.
The 31-year-old Palulu, in the meantime, is on an impressive run, winning 10 of his last 11 fights. He hasn’t been beaten in six years. The last time he tasted defeat was when he lost by split decision to Jason Butar Butar.
Palulu has fought the likes of former world title challenger AJ “Bazooka” Banal and Isack Junior. He’s coming off a unanimous decision over Asad Asif Khan last June 12.
Suarez is 13-0 with seven knockouts, while Palulu is 25-2-2 with 14 knockouts.
Also in the same card, Arnel Baconaje (15-5, 11 KOs) challenges hometown bet Dinh Hong Kwan (9-1-1, 4 KOs) for the latter’s International Boxing Federation Asia lightweight belt.
Quality match up at 130 between RoyRoy Sumugat and Ivor "the Killer" Lastrilla.
The Killer showed enterprise and even dominace early in this match, with Big Roy Sumugat keeping a cool head and probing for opportunities as the fight progressed.
D'Hammer was really composed and strong at the end of this one, and showed he has plenty more great performances to come. Lastrilla was impressive in parts of this contest to, he sets up some combinations on southpaw Sumugat that were really thoughtful.
This Sumugat v Lastrilla match up was really good to watch !
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.
Indonesian champion Defry Palulu (25-2) takes on the Philippines' champion Charly Suarez (13-0) at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam on Saturday December 10th.
This is ONE versus ONE where the thudding style of the Indonesian southpaw will be looking to disrupt the plans of the livewire Suarez.
This is already shaping as a phenomenal card, where the main event sees the Vietnam lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan (9-1) will defend his IBF Asia title against top class pinoy Arnel Baconaje (15-5) in what is as close to a 50/50 match as you will ever likely see !
Many great bouts at the BATTLEFIELD, and there were also some stand out performances by boxers that were on the wrong side of the judges scorecards. Eduardo Mancito resumed from a break, and looked in outstanding shape for his match with hot Lightweight prospect Jerald Into.
Mancito had some significant issues with the height and range of Into, and started to solve these to a degree late in the match. The Nightmare did some good work in this encounter, and will no doubt be vastly improved by meeting a shorter opponent and back in his usual weight class for his next assignment.
Charly Suarez and Carlo Magali go at it for WBA Asia and RP national title supremacy!
Suarez will return on December 10 in Vietnam to close out the year, taking on his first foreign challenger.
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 !
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
IBF Asia Lightweight title
LIVE FROM THE GRAND HO TRAM VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
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!
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!
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!