Age :
31
Height :
163
cm
Stance :
Orthodox
Region :
Port Moresby
Country :
Papua New Guinea
Record : PRO DEBUT
Record :
4
Wins
(
3
KO)
/
3
Loss
/
0
Draws
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải is now in Ho Tram and looks in great shape for today's weigh in.
Hai is pictured with Papua New Guinea fighter Junior Kauko Raka, who will also fight at the big international event tomorrow night in Vung Tau.
It's Fight Day in Vietnam.
PRODIGY Junior Kauko Raka is promising to impose the Papua New Guinea fight brand in Vietnam tonight. Raka takes on an imposing task - China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su.
Said Raka :
"Just watch tonight. It will be VIOLENT.
But I promise to all the people, I will make it a thing of beauty "
One of the great things about boxing is the people you meet and the friends that you make.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino is a huge venue, but you never know who you will bump into !!
Earlier today Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka met Vietnam's champion Nguyễn Văn Hải while walking the halls. Both boxers have big fights tomorrow night - Raka takes on China's Xiao Tao Su, and Hai meets unbeaten Abdul Mottalib.
Flanking the boxers are Team Raka trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
#cockybuffalopromotions #cockybuffalo #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam #TheGrandHoTramStrip #vspboxing
Team Raka have arrived in Vietnam, and first stop was VSP Gym in HCMC where they discussed all things boxing.
The team of (from left) Junior Raka, Ephraim Montoru, Martin Liri and Nelson John met with local boss Mr. Lim Song.
Raka will fight on Saturday night against China's Xiao Tao Su - a former #1 and WBO Oriental champion.
Former opponents Mark John Yap and Junior Raka are now united with a common goal - to seek and destroy foreign opponents this Saturday night in Vietnam.
The Philippines and Papua New Guinea guns will appear at a big international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
Their matches will be watched by bosses of Asia's top boxing commissions, including Richard Clarin and some team members from the Games and Amusement Board in the Philippines.
#vspboxing #TheGrandHoTramStrip #cockybuffalo #cockybuffalopromotions #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
Junior Kauko Raka en route to Vietnam, couldn't resist the temptation to drop into one of the many famous fight gyms in the Philippines.
Pictured here with trainer Nelson John, Raka reportedly looked great on pads and is already on weight.
HE'S READY TO RUMBLE !
Raka takes on China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su this Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
Papua New Guinea iron man Junior Kauko Raka pictured just moments ago.
Raka is in Manila getting some miles in the legs before flying out to Vietnam on Wednesday.
The "PNG Prodigy" will meet former China #1 and WBO Oriental title holder Xiao Tao Su on Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
#vspboxing #cockybuffalo #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #cockybuffalopromotions #vbo #TheGrandHoTramStrip
Papua New Guinea's granite fisted Junior Raka and his team are officially Vietnam bound !
The squad are en route via Manila, where they will stay till Wednesday before leaving for Ho Chi Minh City.
The PNG Prodigy Raka has the task of dismantling China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su at a big international show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino next Saturday night.
Papua New Guinea's "PRODIGY" Junior Kauko Raka just touched down in Manila.
There are no direct flights from PNG to Vietnam, so it's an opportunity to say hello to old friends and visit Manila's famous Elorde gyms.
Raka and team will fly out to Ho Chi Minh City this Wednesday.
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
PAPUA NEW GUINEA BOXER COMES TO HCMC
Ladies and gentlemen - Mr. Junior Kauko Raka
11 fights - 9 wins - 7 Knockouts
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
They breed them with big hearts in PNG !
Getting opportunities to fight in international events is never easy, and if you're based in PNG, even more so !
Friends and supporters of Junior Kauko Raka, and believers in the great sport of boxing, assembled last night to celebrate his impending task in Vietnam.
They also all contributed their valuable time, energy and money to make Raka the first professional boxer ever to step foot into the south east asian destination.
Big thanks go to promoter Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for showing the foresight and faith in the PNG Prodigy !
Also, massive thanks to the friends in PNG who really stepped up last night :
The Minister of Internal Security, and Governor of Bougainville HON Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. who took the lead to put in support by paying for the venue, and to kindly host the dinner fundraising.
And the support from these generous companies:
1- JOMIK Group Company
2- PANG Family
3- NCDC Sport Desk
4- NCDC Governor
5- PNG Sport Foundation
6- NCD Provincial Health Authority
Also, Junior Kauko Raka has a special shout out to his manager Betrand Vagelo and his admin Ezra Bonny, for making last night's celebration happen, for both him and the whole Raka team.
I'm optimistic that the combined efforts of all will pave the way for international opportunities for young PNG stars of the future.
Big congratulations to the people of Papua New Guinea for supporting great role models. Bravo !!
Have you ever met a GENUINE mountain bred Papua New Guinean warrior ?
No ?
Well that's because Junior Kauko Raka and his team will be the first ever to set foot on Vietnam soil !!
Please make the Raka team welcome at VSP when they arrive in the week of 10th July, before heading to Vũng Tàu on the 13th.
The Papua New Guinea hard man has the task of dismantling former Chinese #1 and WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su.
The match will take place at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on Saturday July 15th.
Some snapshots from the December event in Vietnam. Some great fights that night.
Big event coming this July 15th.
Mark John Yap will be back, also Nguyễn Văn Hải and a special appearance from Papua New Guinea hard man Junior Kauko Raka.
This PNG powerhouse boxer is built like a tank and he is one tough warrior that represents the unrelenting spirit of his countryman. Junior Raka makes history as the first PNG boxer to ever fight in Vietnam.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1081798786128620
Former combatants Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka will meet again in July next month, but this time as friends - not foes !!
Yap and Raka shared the ring in Manila in late 2022, where the Papua New Guinea embraced the ominous task on just a few weeks notice. It was a great fight, and both boxers showed the sort of doggedness which will make them compulsory viewing in Vietnam.
July 15th sees the duo take on top rated foreigners in the super featherweight division.
These two stars will spearhead a big international show at the Grand Ho Tram in Vũng Tàu, and is made possible by Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Junior Kauko Raka answered a call from VSP Promotions in late 2O22. Mark John Yap had just resumed boxing after the pandemic, and despite a points loss to King's Warrior Charly, he looked as skilled and dangerous as ever. So much so, we were unable to find anyone in the Philippines willing to fight him !
The Papua New Guinea star begged for the chance to fight, and in spite of a ridiculously short time to prepare, gave Mark John Yap the really hard fight that was needed. Junior Raka won a legion of new fans that day, including the man known as the Journey Man:
"I hit him with some great shots, and he just walked through them. I bruised my hands he was built like a rock !"
And how did he rate the power of the PNG boxer ?
"I work hard on my defense, but he has skills, and when he landed - he has heavy hands. I ask my team to check his gloves - it felt like he had iron in there !
Junior Raka will be a hard fight for any boxer. "
And so it is. Raka takes on Xiao Tao Su of China on July 15th in Ho Tram Vietnam. A boxer built from the same cloth as the PNG man.
Xiao Tao Su was China's #1 ranked fighter prior to the pandemic, winning a WBO Oriental title by savage knockout in the process. He resumed to lose narrowly to Vietnam's #1 61kg Nguyễn Văn Hải, and returns to his more favoured 59kg category for his assignment against Junior Kauko Raka.
This is a huge fight, where both boxers come to fight, and both carry lots of skills and heavy power. While the Chinese boxer will start overwhelming favourite, if you listen to the experienced words of Mark John Yap, then Junior Kauko Raka is about to deliver a firestorm to the sunny shores of Ho Tram Vietnam.
Big thanks to Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for making this great match up possible.
Papua New Guinea Boxer Junior Kauko Raka’s fight against Vietnamese opponent Van Thao Tran is scheduled for the 15th of July next month at the Grand Ho Tram resort and casino in Vietnam.
Raka said his preparations for the fight is going great at the moment, he is currently training with his coach Ephraim Montaru, trainer Nelson John and national coach for the amateur boxers.
“I am having some spurring with Team PNG boxers who are preparing to attend the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands.”
Raka said he will get really good preparations if he goes to the Philippines to train there whilst waiting for his fight.
“I have made commitments to go to the Philippines but in terms of sponsors I’m still yet to secure one to help me travel there to prepare.”
“If I train and do some spurring in the Philippines I will be at my best fit to take up my international match.”
Raka said he is confident to win this fight and that is his main aim as it is the national championships for Vietnam and to him it means it’s the national championship for PNG.
“I’ve watched some of my opponents fights and I’ve seen some of his weaknesses and studied his movements in terms of attack and defense so if I can prepare in the Philippines, I will be able to defeat him.”
“One of my opponent Van Thao Tran’s weakness I have seen is that he does not move a lot in the ring and he moves forward all the time so I am training on how to move back and counter punch on him when he moves forward to attack me; I will move back with my punches and see gaps to swing or stop him,” added Raka.
Raka said so far there is no confirmation from any sponsors yet who have said to help me however the member for Bougainville and Minister Peter Tsiamalili has made a commitment to assist him; also from the CEO for Sports Foundation Albert Veratau who said to look into it.
There is also a company Jomik group of companies in Bougainville who have put their hands up to assist in his travel.
Raka thanked these sponsors especially the Jomik group of companies who assisted his team when they were in Buka with their airfares back to Port Moresby and their continuous support.
VIETNAM - Get ready to be rocked by RAKA !!
Vietnam's boxing star "The Trigger" Tran Van Thao goes toe to toe with Papua New Guinea's hard man
Junior Kauko Raka - the PNG Prodigy !!
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday July 15th
Vietnam - here we come !
The Yap Attack and Head Coach Jetro Pabustan are headed to Ho Tram Vietnam this July, as they look to reinforce the stocks of Mark John Yap on the world scene.
It is expected that the Philippines star will appear on an all international event, and will fight a young top rated fighter from the Middle East.
Familiar faces to VSP followers, Nguyễn Văn Hải and Junior Kauko Raka, will also compete on the Cocky Buffalo show.
Mark John Yap will return to Manila from CDO for sparring in 10 days time, on the back of an impressive exhibition performance in Ho Chi Minh City late last month.
More news breaking soon.
Rumours are strong that Papua New Guinea's premier fighter Junior Kauko Raka may be headed to the sunny shores of Vung Tau this coming July.
The "made from granite" Raka has made no secret that he wants to fight the top international boxers, but those opportunities aren't available at home in Papua New Guinea.
HAVE GLOVES - WILL TRAVEL !
Raka has already won two pro bouts, and taken two losses - but these were outstanding efforts against world rated Roldan Aldea and Mark John Yap.
It is believed that Raka is in talks to take on Vietnam's highest ranked professional fighter, and if so, this story is sure to create big news in that country.
"I love boxing - and I believe in myself and my team. I only want to take on the biggest challenges, and show people that the fighter's from Papua New Guinea can take on the world. We have many kids here with great potential, so my mission is to bring this message to Vietnam"
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
One of the Philippines best performed international fighters of recent years Mark John Yap will treat boxing fans to the best new year's present possible - a Manila appearance on January 30 as a prelude to looking towards bigger overseas fights in 2023.
Yap returned home and put in a high quality performance in a WBA title clash with Charly Suarez, before overcoming PNG hard man Junior Kauko Raka in October of this year.
More recently, the star pinoy featured in a big show in Vietnam where he battled young gun Phan Minh Quân. The bout was unfortunately stopped due to an accidental head clash, with the cut requiring the CDO boxer to be stitched after the fight.
Not one to be deterred easily, Mark John Yap has informed that he will be in killer form on January 30 and he advises potential opponents - beware the Journey Man!
Champion Philippines boxer Mark John Yap and Team Raka trainer Ephraim Montoru meet after the historic bout between PNG and Philippines.
What was the topic they discussed? " Mark, which one in your opinion is better?
The San Miguel or riding the Red Horse? "was Ephraim's opener !
Papua New Guinea's very popular Junior Kauko Raka enjoys a meal with other competing boxers after yesterday's huge BATTLEFIELD card in Parañaque Manila.
Raka put on a stoic display in a cracking undercard fight with Philippines champion Mark John Yap.
Junior Raka pressured Yap throughout, winning the admiration of the crowd.
This was the first match for the PNG PRODIGY in almost two years, so expect to see a vastly improved fighter in future bouts.
And our advice is that anyone that is thinking of facing Raka ,?
WATCH OUT ! You are in for one hell of a fight!
PNG PRODIGY IS ON THE MARCH !
After the gunshots have fallen silent, and the smoke has cleared !
Huge performances tonight from Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka.
Yap showed all his boxing skills and put an exclamation mark on why he has been a multiple title holder. This "Journeyman" has a lot left in the tank, and he looks invigorated at 130lb.
Raka was a junkyard dog, constantly pressing the champion Yap onto the back foot. Junior Raka showed understandable signs of ring rust, but it was a wholehearted display that won the plaudits of Philippines fans, and was sure to make PNG proud.
Make no mistake, Raka will derive huge benefit from tonight's performance and he will be a menace to top fighters in the division.
Top quality bout. Bravo !
Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.
Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.
Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.
Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.
This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!
But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd
BE THERE, OR WATCH IT LIVE !
The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.
On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.
Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:
"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.
When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.
I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.
There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.
Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.
One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.
I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.
Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka offers to go toe to toe with Cagayan de Oro's outstanding boxer Mark John Yap.
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's hard man Junior Kauko Raka responded to recent suggestions that Mark John Yap would put an exclamation mark on their clash by going for the knockout. Whilst Yap, and perhaps the whole of the Philippines, know what potential dangers the PNG Prodigy brings to the ring, they are also aware that the safest plan is to get him out of there as soon as possible.
The scheduled 8 round fight will take place in just over two weeks from now, and Raka had this to say:
"Knockout ? Well let's see!
We won't be running like ring girls, and I'm ready to fight toe to toe, so he won't have to go looking for me. We will see who stays standing!"
Spoken in true Warrior spirit!
PNG's Raka has experienced only one loss in 10 bouts, a points decision at the hands of top flight pinoy Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match. The powerful Port Moresby boxer has scored 7 knockouts along a path of destruction, and notably, is yet to be dropped.
This will be a compelling match up, with "The Journeyman" Mark John Yap starting a warm favourite, but likely to experience a torrid time with his PNG foe.
The Journeyman Mark John Yap is in training in Manila, and has promised to be at his destructive best this month when he contests the main undercard match prior to the giant Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali clash.
Yap is slated to fight Papua New Guinea's premier boxer Junior Kauko Raka, and is philosophical, despite suffering 4 losses on the trot. But the defeats need to be examined more closely and put in perspective !
Three of these losses were at the hands of top class unbeaten foreign opponents, where matching was done at the very last moment to ensure making weight would prove extremely difficult. Nonetheless, Yap produced really good touches in each of these bouts, and actually dropped the unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra whilst incurring a points loss.
Mark John Yap prepared in the altitude of Baguio prior to his August stoush with Charly Suarez, and the hard work showed. It was an impressive performance by the Journeyman, and it is really doubtful that any local other than the freakish Suarez could have repelled him that day.
Yap did his early preparation in Cagayan de Oro for his date with Raka, and is now in Manila being mentored by Elorde's Jetro Pabustan. He has a pragmatic view on his impending battle:
“If I’ll have the opportunity to knock him out, then I’ll knock him out,” said Yap.
“If he’s tough, then I’ll try to do my best and dominate him.”
If he's tough ? Well, one thing we know about the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka is that he's carved from granite, and has skills, so this should be a thriller !
And for the Journeyman, you just know that this international star will produce something special this month and even more, the best is yet to come !
Mark John Yap v Junior Raka (PNG)
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap takes on the might of Papuan hard man Junior Raka later this month in Paranaque Manila .
Yap is one of the Philippines' best internationally credentialed boxers in recent years, having amassed 30 wins and three OPBF titles on the road in Japan.
But he is experienced enough to know that you can never underestimate an opponent, and in Junior Raka, you have a nemesis with skills and a warrior heart to match.
"Raka already has a history with Pinoy boxers. He has had two big wins, and then a narrow loss to Roldan Aldea for the WBA belt, and we have a big opinion of Aldea here in the Philippines.
We know that Junior Raka will bring energy and aggression, and a love for the battle. We respect that, because we love it too! So bring it on, and we welcome you to the Philippines Mr. Raka ! "
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papuan pugilist Junior Raka is putting in the hard work and looking forward to an October 23 rendezvous with hot pinoy Mark John Yap.
The Cagayan de Oro boxer arrived in Manila last night, and will complete his training with elite sparring in coming weeks.
The match will be PNG Prodigy Raka's first since the pandemic, but he has the mindset to over ride all obstacles and bring a strong performance to the BATTLEFIELD event.
Raka welcomed his opponent: "Good morning to Mark John Yap. I look forward to joining you in Manila. I know we will give all the boxing fans in the Philippines and PNG a great match. Boxing is my life so I thank you and the people of Philippines for the opportunity !"
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Junior Raka v Mark John Yap
Main Undercard
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Love watching this guy at work.
Three times OPBF champ, and a technician with 30 wins to his name, Mark John Yap is without doubt the most experienced boxer amongst an outstanding card at the BATTLEFIELD next month.
It is a rare treat to see Yap perform on home soil, as he has fought abroad in places like Japan, USA and Dubai in recent years. He made a quick trip home in 2019, and was rewarded with an impressive Knockout win in front of adoring CDO fans. He was not sighted in the Philippines again till August of this year, when he faced the mercurial Charly Suarez in a WBA title bout. Despite a points loss, it was a near vintage Yap that impressed onlookers and Suarez himself :
" Mark fought a very clever fight. He reads the punches very well, and he shows his experience with lots of variety. He is very tough and experienced. "
Yap never has easy opponents, and in his inimitable style, takes on Papuan Warrior Junior Raka in his upcoming bout.
Raka was a feisty amateur before turning pro, and despite limited opportunities, has shown great signs. He scored two great wins over quality Pinoy Allan Vallespin, and endured a points loss over the top class Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match.
It is also well known that the "PNG PRODIGY " has 7 additional fights not listed in BoxRec, and is unbeaten with 6 knockouts. BOOM! This pride of Papua New Guinea has got guns in both hands!
This will be a colossal contest, and like any fight of Mark John Yap, we would not expect anything less!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Cagayan de Oro boxer Mark John Yap returns to Manila on Monday to ramp up preparations for his impending clash with Papua New Guinea hard man Junior "the Prodigy" Raka.
Yap had been on the international circuit for many years prior to the pandemic, and local fans have really been deprived of seeing his superb skills on home soil. His appearance at the BATTLEFIELD show next month is a huge coup, because Yap had only performed twice in the Philippines in recent history.
After a highly successful stint in Japan, which culminated in 3 OPBF titles, Yap returned briefly to his native Mindanao in 2019. While he was there, he took on the really promising fighter Ulysses Lagos, a bout that he won by impressive KO in front of a big crowd in CDO.
Yap was not seen again in the Philippines till August this year, where he engaged in a WBA belt clash with the unbeaten Charly Suarez. This was a really superb performance by Yap, and despite losing on points, endorsed that he is still at the top of his game.
It was anticipated that no matter who Mark John Yap matched up with this October, it would be a "stay busy" assignment, possibly a soft win, but then the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka threw his hat in the ring!
Raka is of short stature and powerful, and typically PNG warrior stock, a real tough SOB! And the man has skills too!
Junior Raka has accepted this challenge at really short notice, more so, he asked for it! It is super impressive stuff in a sport where many are constantly hiding out.
VSP Promotions can say emphatically that NO ONE WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP, so that gives you some insight to how highly regarded "the Journeyman" is at home.
But reputations count for nothing once you are in the ring and touch gloves, so DO NOT MISS THIS BOUT! Fireworks !
MARK JOHN YAP v JUNIOR RAKA
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Destined to be a barnburner and likely to steal all the thunder at BATTLEFIELD this October is the Junior Raka and Mark John Yap main undercard bout.
This has all the makings of a classic showdown in Parañaque Manila, yet oddly, neither fighter has local advantages.
Junior Raka hails from Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. It's a country which is abundant in sporting talent, and where the interest in boxing is gaining momentum.
Mark John Yap is a son of Cagayan de Oro, in the southern Philippines island of Mindanao. This is arguably the most prolific location in the world for producing champion fighters - Charly Suarez and Manny Pacquiao being just two of the recent alma mater.
Mark John Yap is currently the Philippines #2 rated 130, and judging by what we saw recently against WBA champion Suarez, that looks accurate. Yap was simply outstanding despite defeat.
Junior Raka is really up against it, but that's the way he likes it. A quality amateur with plenty of firepower, the PNG Prodigy jumped at the chance to fight Yap at very short notice. Despite his recent inactivity, expect the PNG banger to bring pressure, and lots of it! He knows how to cut the ring, has nice timing, and can really find the target.
This is a fight deserving of main event status. Do not miss it !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's best known fighter is headed to Manila, and has agreed to terms to face "the Journeyman" Mark John Yap at the BATTLEFIELD on October 23rd. Junior "the Prodigy" Raka is a former Arafura Games silver medallist, and has had 3 "official" professional bouts, winning 2 by way of Knockout. But the PNG banger has 7 fights which BoxRec failed to list - all wins, and all knockouts!
His only career loss was on points to the outstanding pinoy Roldan Aldea, in a WBA title match in early 2021. Mark John Yap looked outstanding in his recent WBA clash with Charly Suarez, and his effort left Junior Raka a fan:"It was a really great fight by Mark Yap, lots of clever boxing. I was really impressed. I realize this will be a very hard fight for me, as I am accepting the job at short notice.
But I am very confident in my ability, and I know I have the power to get his attention. Make no mistake, PNG fighters are proud warriors, and this will be a GREAT FIGHT!"
Junior Raka and Mark John Yap will be the main undercard bout to Suarez v Magali at
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Trận đấu ở hạng 79kg giữa Nguyễn Ngọc Quyền (đỏ) và Võ Thành Đức (xanh) gay cấn ngay từ những giây đầu tiên với những pha ra đòn "búa tạ" từ cả hai tài năng trẻ. Liên tiếp những pha trao đổi đòn đấm cực kì chất lượng được tung ra tới những giây cuối cùng. Chung cuộc, trận đấu giữa Ngọc Quyền và Thành Đức kết thúc với tỉ số hòa đa số: 38-38, 38-38, 39-38.
Nguyễn Tấn Thành đã có màn thể hiện hoàn toàn áp đảo trước tay đấm tân binh Trần Xuân Hưng. Khả năng kiểm soát cự li hợp lý ngay từ hiệp 1, Tấn Thành liên tiếp có các tình huống tung đòn đấm thẳng tay sau lên đối thủ ở góc đài xanh. Tới hết hiệp 3, những pha tấn công của Nguyễn Tấn Thành đã khiến góc đài của Xuân Hưng xin dừng trận đấu. Chiến thắng knockout kĩ thuật cho Nguyễn Tấn Thành ở thời điểm kết thúc hiệp 3.
#webthethao #vsp #boxing #vsppro #vsppro9
Vũ Thành Đạt will headline another great card at VSP PRO 9 this Saturday night.
And if you didn't know - BOXERS GET THE GIRLS !
Come and be part of the fun - doors open 5.30pm this Saturday - first bout 6.30pm.
Champions have to start somewhere !!
Lots of super talent has been unearthed in this year's VSP PRO series, and more young stars are coming this Saturday night.
Seven all action fights, highlighted by a main event featuring two of Vietnam's greatest ever champions.
Please arrive early, and make sure you get a great seat.
Doors open 5.30pm - first bout at 6.30pm.
This event is made possible by the sanctioning of the Vietnam Boxing Organization, who are the regulator of professional boxing in Vietnam.
VSP PRO 9 - Saturday October 28th Starts 6pm
VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
#vspboxinggym #vspboxing #Webthethao #vsppro #boxingvietnam #OnSports #vtvcab #boxinginsaigon #Vietnamboxingorganization #VBO
When you have got height, reach, youth and good looks - what else do you really need ??
17 year old Binh Duong Boxing Team prospect Truong Hai Bien returns to VSP PRO, only two months since he debuted against Nguyễn Khắc Dũng. Bien dropped a points decision to his Hanoi opponent, but it was very obvious he has a mile of improvement, and his team were keen to get him back into the ring as soon as possible.
Bien at 173cm has nice height for the super lightweight class, and if he can learn to create angles a little more, will be able to have more success fighting on the outside than he did at his debut. But despite his inexperience, he certainly has the makings of a good boxer.
Nguyễn Khắc Dũng brought lots of pressure in the August bout, and next Saturday night, Lê Nguyễn Hoàng Long brings pressure in spades !
But for sure, height, reach, youth and good looks will all combine on the night and we will see a vastly improved Truong Hai Bien at VSP Gym next Saturday.
This event is made possible by the sanctioning of the Vietnam Boxing Organization, who are the regulator of professional boxing in Vietnam.
VSP PRO 9 - Saturday October 28th Starts 6pm
VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
#vspboxinggym #vspboxing #Webthethao #vsppro #boxingvietnam #OnSports #vtvcab #boxinginsaigon #Vietnamboxingorganization #VBO
(If you wanna Rock'n Roll)
One of Ho Chi Minh City's most popular boxers returns to next Saturday night for the 9th installment of the very popular VSP PRO.
Lê Nguyễn Hoàng Long has perhaps been one of Saigon's unluckiest boxers with injuries, and he resumed from a very long break at VSP PRO last July.
In what was meant to be a "soft" return to the sport he loves, Long was unfortunate to lose his debutant opponent at the very last moment.
Not one to avoid a challenge, Long accepted the monumental task of being matched with in form national team star Nguyễn Hà Minh.
Long showed lots of great signs in his comeback fight, before being caught by his top class opponent late in the bout.
Next Saturday night, Long meets Binh Duong youngster TRƯƠNG HẢI BIỀN in what should be a cracking bout. Long definitely possesses the experience edge over his taller and rangier rival, and it will be interesting to see if he is able to keep this young gun on a tight leash.
One thing for sure, Lê Nguyễn Hoàng Long is a real crowd pleaser and he will definitely be throwing bombs however long the battle lasts.
This event is made possible by the sanctioning of the Vietnam Boxing Organization, who are the regulator of professional boxing in Vietnam.
VSP PRO 9 - Saturday October 28th Starts 6pm
VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
#vspboxinggym #vspboxing #Webthethao #vsppro #boxingvietnam #OnSports #vtvcab #boxinginsaigon #Vietnamboxingorganization #VBO
Lương Nguyễn Công Khải is one of the best known names in Vietnam boxing, yet the Quảng Ngãi fighter vanished from the sporting landscape for close to 3 years !
Khải was highly regarded on the local scene, even winning a HCMC title, but years of training took a toll on his body. He decided enough was enough, and ended up having surgery to deal with his chronic shoulder pain, and also his restricted power and movement. But whilst the surgery was deemed a success, there was an extensive period of rehabilitation to endure.
These were long hours of constant stretching and strengthening, and finally Khải knew it was time to put his shoulder to the test. He entered the ring for the first time in three years back in August - a VSP PRO match against former youth champ Truong Ngo Gia Huy - definitely no easy task for your first time back in the ring !
The match was excellent, and despite some ring rust and being slightly short of fitness, the Killer showed many qualities of his former self. At the end, the judges could not seperate the two fighters, and declared it a draw, but it was very obvious that Khai would soon be a force to be reckoned with.
And as if it was scripted, the KILLER returns next Saturday night for VSP PRO 9. He is matched up against DƯƠNG ĐỨC BẢO - a southpaw from Max Fight club in HCMC who will be making his professional debut. The reports are extremely good on this boy, and his team are confident they can keep Khải out of the winner's list for a little while longer.
But based on what we saw in August, and knowing the level that Lương Nguyễn Công Khải was at before he was injured, this may be a big task for Bao.
EXPECT TO SEE A KILLER UNLEASHED NEXT SATURDAY NIGHT !
VSP PRO 9 - Saturday October 28th Starts 6pm
VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
#vspboxinggym #vspboxing #Webthethao #vsppro #boxingvietnam #OnSports #vtvcab #boxinginsaigon
Matrix Boxing prospect Lâm Trí Siêu has always had skills, but his love for beer and buffet has always challenged his love for boxing !
Siêu made a nice debut in June, scoring a points win over a very combative Nguyễn Dat Viet.
But it was a very "cuddly" fighter that presented at that show, weighing in at a touch under 80kg.
In spite of the impressive performance, it was suggested that the HCMC boxer would be better suited in a lighter weight class, and soon we get to see if the opinion is on the money.
Lâm Trí Siêu returns for VSP PRO 9 next Saturday October 28th, and it will be a leaner 76kg that will appear in the ring. Siêu takes on promising debutant PHAM HỮU TÀI in what will likely be one of the best fights on the card.
If you have never been to the fights, do not miss this show next Saturday at VSP Gym in HCMC. Admission is free, but please arrive early as seating is sometimes limited.
VSP PRO 9 - Live pro fight action from VSP Gym
Saturday October 28th Starts 6pm
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
#vspsatsparring #vspboxing #vspboxinggym #vsppro #boxingvietnam #Webthethao #vtvcab #OnSports
Looking for Vietnam future stars for the last two events of the year :
VSP PRO 1O - Saturday November 25
VSP PRO 11 - Saturday December 23
Contact us NOW if you want to FIGHT !
Next show this month is Saturday October 28th.
It was a really nice foreign debut for Phan Minh Quân in Korea last Sunday.
Quân took on unbeaten Uzbekistan boxer Sirochbek Ismoilov - a former amateur champion and national team member.
Vietnam had plenty of good touches, and despite a narrow loss, served it up to the Uzbek champ.
Great quality fight, and Phan Minh Quân will COME BACK STRONGER !
This time last year Muay Thai fighter Thai Hoang Huy was looking to make his boxing debut.
And what a debut !
The fighter dubbed "Naksu" (which means WARRIOR in Muay Thai) fought an exhibition with Philippines famed KILLER JonJon Estrada - a boxer with 16 wins and ouch ! - 14 Knockouts.
That exhibition bout inspired Thai Hoang Huy to turn professional - and the Ho Chi Minh City boxer now owns the impressive record of 4 wins and one split decision loss in his five bouts to date.
Certainly not one to walk away from a challenge, Naksu now has some huge news breaking !
Thai Hoang Huy will represent Vietnam at an international event at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on November 18th on a top class card assembled by Cocky Buffalo Promotions.
Huy will take on Botswana hotshot Moabi Ngaka, in what will be a prelude for the African boxer's title fight in late December.
Ngaka was a superb amateur that has transitioned impressively to the pro format, and is now regarded as his country’s best fighter.
And Ngaka will take his own place in history, as this will be the first time we get to see an African boxer perform in Vietnam.
Thai Hoang Huy has been one of the consistent improvers at VSP PRO this year, and we wish him lots of luck in this monumental yet exciting challenge that lay ahead.
Too many great fighters - not enough fights !
So we have added an extra VSP PRO on Nov 25 !
Boxers, if you want to fight on the last two shows of the year (November 25 and December 16) - please contact us at VSP.
VSP PRO has unearthed lots of hot prospects this year, and three of those that have shone will get their first taste of international competition tomorrow.
Phan Minh Quân, Le Hoàng Hiệp and Lê Tiến Dat all made weight today, and have significant bouts in South Korea on Sunday.
Quân v Uzbekistan Hiệp v Philippines Dat v South Korea so we are hoping for a big day for Vietnam and our boxers!!
Check this page tomorrow - we will stream the fights live.
VSP PRO young guns Lê Tiến Đạt Phan Minh Quan, Le Hoang Hiep are on their way to Korea tonight!
Matrix coach Thanh will be accompanying them as they will face their toughest challenge yet!
The boys will face tough opponents from Korea, Uzbekistan, and the Philippines at Pochun City, just outside of Seoul.
Cheer for them as they will be fighting for the pride of Vietnam!!
The fight will be free live on YouTube. More details to follow.
October 8, Saturday 11AM Vietnam Time.
#vsppro #vspboxing #vietnamboxing #VBO #matrix #challenge #koreaboxing
This was the main event, and it was a cracking contest between two very promising featherweights.
Without doubt - the best fight of the night !
ĐỖ VĂN THIỆN NGÂN and ĐOÀN HOÀI NHỚ went non-stop, sharing plenty of great moments in a fight that rightfully could have gone either way.
The judges nod was a split decision win to the Ca Mau boxing team fighter ĐOÀN HOÀI NHỚ.
Very excited to see both of these top prospects in future bouts !
It was a super impressive debut by southpaw Pham Van Thành to win the main undercard bout.
The super bantamweight contest was high level, and opponent Truong Ngo Gia Huy showed nice skills and movement throughout.
But it was the more consistent touches and ring control that won the judges, and the Binh Duong boxer Pham Van Tan scored the first of what is surely many wins to come.
Excellent bout between two fighters making their debut - Team Manny boxer LÊ NGỌC MINH KHÔI and Khang Anh Martial Arts Club PHẠM LÊ GIA HUY.This was an excellent bout where both boxers adhered to basics, maintaining a decent punch volume throughout.Huy was the much taller boxer, and used his range well to outpoint his opponent, who often tried to broach distance with a high guard but lacking the fast head movement and jab. The Khang Anh boxer impressed the judges, and lots more wins seem assured.LÊ NGỌC MINH KHÔI was an excellent debut, but certainly had issues with the height and range of his opponent. He looks like a drop to 48-50kg class will suit him far better, and expect to see him winning with more experience under his belt.
Improving novice Thai Hoàng Huy went on the attack in round two, after trailing 10-8 in the early scorecards.
Huy was unfortunate in round one, after appearing to slip just prior to receiving a glancing blow, and was deducted two points for the knockdown.
But the former muay thai fighter quickly made up for it, landing a peach of an uppercut on Tran Ngọc Phuong Hieu to end the battle in stunning fashion.
Despite his inexperience as a boxer, Thai Hoang Huy has improved markedly since he debuted, and moves to 4-1 as a professional.
Tran Thi Kim Chi definitely showed that she is a top prospect, but Quảng Ngãi dynamo edged the rounds last night with punch volume and accuracy to score her second win as a professional. Unanimous decision.
Quality fight.
This one was too close to call !
The judges could not choose between Phan Thành Kinh and Pham Quốc Ngu.
These two punched themselves to a standstill.
Lê Tuấn Anh - Xuất sắc vượt bài test sau 5 tháng tập luyện
Winner - Pro Debut
Unanimous decision
Nguyễn Văn Đương vừa có chiến thắng 4-0 trước võ sĩ Nepal Lama Buddha Gyamjo, qua đó vào vòng trong gặp ĐKVĐ thế giới Abdumalik Khalokov (Uzbekistan).
Sở dĩ Đương thắng 4-0 bởi có trọng tài chấm 28-28, trong khi cũng có trọng tài chấm 25-30, 26-30...
Ảnh: Nam Trung
Here's one for the watch list next Saturday night !!
18 year old Quảng Ngãi prospect Duyên returns for VSP PRO 8 for a featherweight 57kg bout against Can Tho team's TRẦN THI KIM CHI.
Duyen is a former youth and club champion gold medal winner, and debuted in March at VSP PRO with a classy victory over Hoang Thuy Linh. She looked very restrained in that performance, and expect to see something special from Duyên this coming Saturday.
She is certainly one of the future stars for women's boxing in Vietnam.
VSP PRO 8
Saturday September 30th Starts 6pm
VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Everyone welcome.
#vsppromotions #vsp #vspboxing #vspgym #boxingvietnam
Mark John Yap has arrived in Manila, en route to Bangkok, where he fights for the WBC Asia title this Saturday night.
Yap will make an audacious bid at the belt, jumping a weight class to Lightweight to take on champion Apichet Petchmanee who boasts a 15 win 1 loss record.
The iconic VSP Gym in Ho Chi Minh City showcases more of Vietnam's up and coming prospects this Saturday night.
VSP PRO 8 continues the theme of blooding new talent, with 8 boxers making their professional debuts on the show.
VSP PRO 8 will start at 6pm - but please arrive early to ensure you get a seat.
If you can't make it to HCMC, the fights will be broadcast live on VTVCAB, OnSports and VSP Promotions and VSP Boxing Facebook pages.
#Webthethao #VTVcab #vsppromotions #vspboxing #vspgym #boxingvietnam
Ali Cañega and Joseph Ambo scored wins in the two main bouts at Manny Pacquiao’s show in Mandaluyong last night.
Cañega took a well deserved majority decision over quality prospect Jhun Rick Carcedo, who made it an enthralling 10 rounds for the fans. The win earnt Cañega the PBF super lightweight belt, but a title that may have been void with a different result. Carcedo weighed in 5lb over the limit, and a good 6lb heavier than Ali Cañega, who always looks very long and lean.
Joseph Ambo got the victory against outstanding southpaw Gary Tamayo, but it presented in unfortunate circumstances.
The bout seemed to be trending in Tamayo's favour, but he struggled for breath at stages of the contest, and was forced to retire in the 4th round. "The Hawk" was taken to hospital shortly afterwards, and our thoughts are behind him in making a swift and full recovery.
Congratulations to all the fighters who put on a great show yesterday at BLOW BY BLOW.
Vietnam will be the focal point of the best in boxing this November when VICTORY8 makes it's long awaited return.
The event which promises to deliver the ultimate in culture and sports to Hanoi, will take place outdoors at the historic Hoan Kiem Lake in the Old Quarter of the capital.
VICTORY8 pitches Vietnam's best and most promising boxers against the might of a World Team - a squad carefully selected for their variety of skills, styles and geography.
And those attributes lead us to the gem of Africa - BOTSWANA !!
This country is landlocked and nestled in the middle of the continent, and whilst famous for it's diamonds, it will surely become renowned soon for another commodity.
BOXING !!
Breaking news is that Vietnam will get it's first look at an African fighter this November, with Botwana #1 Moabi Ngaka confirmed to make the trip for VICTORY8.
Ngaka had a great amateur career with over 70 fights, and has already scored 2 wins as a pro. It is expected that the champion Ngaka will compete in a 6 round bout at VICTORY8 as preparation for a huge match to be held in Botswana at the end of the year. It is likely that the African boxer will take on the Philippines hurtful puncher Mark John Yap as the main event.
The Botswana contingent will also do a media conference in Hanoi detailing their big plans for their star's title match in December, and Yap will face off with his African foe in Vietnam to market the event.
Watch this space, as we will have more information on Vietnam and World Team selections in the coming weeks.
This is gonna be a good fight
VSP PRO has unearthed lots of unheralded yet talented fighters so far, and our next installment on Saturday September 30th promises to continue the trend.
One of six boxers that will make their debut is 52kg firebrand Lê Ngọc Minh Khoi - a 22 year old boxer who always looked destined for the pro ranks.
The solidly built Dong Nai fighter has actually been around boxing since he was a kid, and even achieved a bronze medal at the nationals back in 2014. But his come forward and aggressive style always beckoned the professional format, and as destiny has it, the Team Manny boxer will make his long awaited first appearance at the VSP Gym in two weeks time.
Khoi will take on Pham Lê Gia Huy of the Khang Anh Martial Art Club in HCMC, and for sure, this will be a hell fight between two very fiery combatants making their debuts.
Join us at VSP Gym in HCMC to catch all the future stars in action on Saturday night September 30th.
Young guns unveiled ! Read on :
Thai Hoang Huy has proved one of the most popular prospects on the circuit this year, and will be aiming for his 4th win as a professional at this month's show.
Huy will take on Omega Boxing’s talltimber Tran Ngọc Phuong Hieu, who is on debut but extremely confident of a first up victory at the iconic VSP Gym.
Next event Saturday September 30th
Live from the iconic VSP Gym in HCMC Vietnam.
#vsppromotions #vspboxing #vspgym #boxingvietnam #webthethao
WBC ASIA LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
It's Philippines meets Thailand
Watch the Journey Man hits the road once more and will jump in weight in a bold plot to overthrow champion Apichet Petchmanee 15-1.
Saturday September 30th in Bangkok Thailand.
Mindanao mauler Mark John Yap has been offered the opportunity to add another title to his collection at very short notice, and has enlisted some family help before he heads to Manila. A 3x OPBF champion at 118lb in Japan, Yap is set to make an audacious bid to win the WBC Asia Lightweight title (at 135lb !) in Bangkok at the end of this month. Despite the very short time to prepare, his brother has stepped in to fast track his training for the impending WBC event. But brother Alberto Yap jr is no stranger to the sport of hard knocks ! The CDO local is a former amateur star, having even won the Philippines national youth title in a past life ! Mark John Yap has really proved to be a renaissance man in recent times, and despite having to compete above his normal weight class this month, he is expected to be a huge chance to secure more silverware for the Philippines ! Yap takes on the outstanding Thai champion Apichet Petchmanee, a boxer who boasts a 15-1 record.
Vietnam's biggest boxing franchise VICTORY8 is trying to secure the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi for a huge event this November.
The format showcases Vietnam's best fighters pitched against stars from around the world.
The last time VICTORY8 was held, it attracted 25,000 people to the mystical turtle lake location.
The event attracted more than 50 million views on local television and on-line platforms.
5 cái tên được 'chọn mặt, gửi vàng' của tuyển boxing nữ Việt Nam thi đấu ASIAD 19 tới bao gồm:
1. Nguyễn Thị Tâm
2. Lưu Diễm Quỳnh
3. Nguyễn Ngọc Trân
4. Hà Thị Linh
5. Nguyễn Huyền Trân
Như vậy, Nguyễn Thị Tâm đã kịp bình phục chấn thương gặp phải từ SEA Games 32 để thi đấu tại ASIAD 19. Cô là niềm hy vọng vàng của boxing Việt Nam tại kỳ đại hội thể thao châu Á sắp tới.
#vothuatithethao #ithethaovn #boxing #boxingvietnam
1. Vũ Đức Thịnh - Lãnh đội
2. Nguyễn Anh Dũng - HLV
3. Nguyễn Như Cường - HLV
4. Phạm Thanh Hải - HLV
5. Erkaev Bakhodir Turgunovich - Chuyên gia
6. Nguyễn Thị Tâm - VĐV
7. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Trân - VĐV
8. Nguyễn Huyền Trân - VĐV
9. Hà Thị Linh - VĐV
10. Lưu Diễm Quỳnh - VĐV
11. Nguyễn Minh Cường - VĐV
12. Nguyễn Văn Đương - VĐV
13. Bùi Phước Tùng - VĐV
14. Nguyễn Mạnh Cường - VĐV
Watch Philippines national champion Ben Ligas assault on the IBO Intercontinental belt tonight when he takes on hot South American boxer Andres Campos.
Campos was unbeaten in 15 fights before dropping a points decision to world champion Sunny Edwards in June.
Ligas has plenty of local support, attracting the attention of Andrew and Jason Maloney. The Philippines champ is flanked by master trainer Jetro Pabustan.
The live stream of tonight's bout will be posted here later.
"The Sniper" Ben Ligas is in career best shape to shock them at the beautiful coastal town of Burleigh Heads in Australia tomorrow night.
Ligas 15-3 takes on Chile's Andre Campos 15-1 for the IBO Intercontinental Fly title, and is expected to be easy pickings for the South American.
Campos had been destroying everything in his path in a 15 fight winning streak, before a points loss to world #1 Sunny Edwards in June of this year. The Chilean was only a fraction behind in that contest, and surely The Sniper represents a far easier task for him !!
But the Philippines national champion Ben Ligas will have other ideas, and as you can see from today's weigh in, he cuts an imposing figure and looks set to create a major upset in Australia tomorrow night.
Breaking news is the announcement that Philippines Mark John Yap will fight in Bangkok later this month for the WBC Lightweight crown.
Cagayan de Oro product Yap will challenge Thailand champion Apichet Petchmanee (15-1) for the belt that he secured back in late 2022. Petchmanee has been very dominant at home, and suffered his lone points loss abroad at Korakuen Hall against the outstanding Japanese boxer Katsuya Yasuda (10-0)
Mark John Yap has been a revelation since fighting Charly Suarez in Manila one year ago. He had previously done his best work at Bantamweight and was contemplating retirement, but rose to meet Suarez at 130lb.
Despite losing that contest, Yap looked in great touch, and is unbeaten in 4 subsequent fights.
He has defied the stigma of increasing weight, but Petchmanee looms as his first serious test at 135lb.
Mark John Yap v Apichet Petchmanee
WBC ASIA TITLE
September 30th Bangkok, Thailand
Theo nguồn tin của ithethao.vn, đội tuyển Boxing Nam Việt Nam đã chốt danh sách thành viên tham dự ASIAD 19.
Danh sách 5 thành viên bao gồm 1 HLV và 4 VĐV:
1. Nguyễn Anh Dũng - HLV
2. Nguyễn Minh Cường - Võ sĩ hạng 51kg
3. Nguyễn Văn Đương - Võ sĩ hạng 57kg
4. Bùi Phước Tùng - Võ sĩ hạng 71kg
5. Nguyễn Mạnh Cường - Võ sĩ hạng 80kg
Trường hợp của Vũ Thành Đạt - võ sĩ hạng 65kg đã được cử đi tập huấn Uzbekistan nhưng không nằm trong danh sách cuối cùng dự ASIAD 19. Đây là sự vắng mặt đáng tiếc do võ sĩ này bị chấn thương vai.
2 tuyển thủ boxing Phước Tùng và Minh Cường cùng show ảnh tryhard từ Thái Lan, trong chuyến tập huấn cuối cùng trước khi lên đường tới Hàng Châu, Trung Quốc tranh tài ASIAD 19.
Đây là cách các thành viên đội tuyển boxing gửi lời chúc mừng lễ Quốc Khánh 2/9. Với họ nhiệm vụ quốc gia là thiêng liêng, được sống và chiến đấu cho màu cờ sắc áo là vinh dự.
Theo nguồn tin của iThethao.vn, đội tuyển boxing nam Việt Nam đã chốt 5 thành viên, trong đó có 1 HLV và 4 VĐV dự ASIAD 19 tại Hàng Châu, Trung Quốc vào cuối tháng 9.
1, HLV trưởng Nguyễn Anh Dũng
2, Nguyễn Minh Cường - võ sĩ hạng 51kg
3, Nguyễn Văn Đương - võ sĩ hạng 57kg
4, Bùi Phước Tùng - võ sĩ hạng 71kg
5, Nguyễn Mạnh Cường - võ sĩ hạng 80kg
Danh sách 4 võ sĩ tham dự ASIAD 19 đã thay đổi so với danh sách đi tập huấn tại Uzbekistan hồi tháng 7. Trước đó, ngoài 4 cái kể trên còn có Vũ Thành Đạt - võ sĩ hạng 65kg. Do dính chấn thương vai, Thành Đạt đã phải chấp nhận bỏ lỡ Đại hội năm nay.
Những võ sĩ nằm trong danh sách dự ASIAD 19 đều là những cái tên tốt nhất của boxing Nam Việt Nam thời điểm hiện tại. Bùi Phước Tùng là chủ nhân của tấm HCV SEA Games 32, Nguyễn Văn Đương và Nguyễn Minh Cường đều giành được huy chương trong chuyến tập huấn và thi đấu tại Uzbekistan, Nguyễn Mạnh Cường cũng cho thấy sự tiến bộ sau quãng thời gian tập luyện rất căng thẳng.
VSP PRO has already showcased some excellent boxers this year, and what has been most exciting, is the improvements that many of the Vietnam fighters have brought to the ring when they have competed more than once.
But the man known as "Kong" - Le Hoang Hiep - is one Vietnamese fighter that really stands out !
After suffering a "controversial" loss early this year, Hiep has been simply outstanding since scoring two electric wins at VSP PRO. And there are all the positive signs that this fan friendly boxer is sure to win many more in the near future.
Hiep works with former World ranked super middleweight Ben Mcculloch in this video at VSP Gym.
https://www.facebook.com/vspgym/videos/579904374166168
We're ready to go again !
VSP wants to thank all the boxers that fought so well on Saturday night - everyone loved the performances that you guys produced. Lots of great match ups and plenty of crowd noise !
Can't wait to see what the next show brings.
VSP PRO 8 - Saturday September 30
Join us for a great night of fun fight action !
The King's Warrior will have his broken right hand in a protective cast for the next 6 weeks, but the good news is, he is expected to make a full recovery.
Suarez staged an amazing effort to stay composed after injuring the hand early in round one, and being put under constant pressure by excellent Dominican Yohan Vasquez.
It was a bitter sweet US debut for the Philippines best boxer, who will be hoping for a ring return later this year.
Despite a dominant win at his USA debut, the King's Warrior Charly Suarez was the victim of misfortune.
Suarez broke his hand early in round one, forcing him to turn to his amateur skills and box his way to victory. The Philippines star turned southpaw frequently in the bout to ensure he survived the ten rounds against his rugged opponent Yohan Vasquez.
Charly Suarez turned away a scrappy challenge from Yohan Vasquez to enjoy a successful U.S. debut. after a ten-round, unanimous decision victory over Dominican Republic’s Vazquez. Scores were 98-92, 98-92 and 97-93 for Suarez in the opening bout of the evening.
Action from bell to bell was entertaining and competitive, to the point where Vasquez (25-4, 20KOs) was disappointed when he heard the lopsided scores. Suarez landed the crisper combinations and cleaner punches but was forced to fend off Vasquez who effectively cut off the ring in the middleweights.
Suarez—a 35-year-old from General Santos City, Philippines—regained control late in the fight to advance to 16-0 (9KOs). The bout was his third straight on the road, having previously posted wins in Vietnam last December and a come-from-behind 12th round stoppage of unbeaten Paul Fleming on March 15 in Sydney, Australia.
Tính tới tháng 8/2023, theo thống kê từ trang BoxRec - nơi ghi nhận thành tích của giới Boxing chuyên nghiệp, số võ sĩ người Việt Nam đang thi đấu là 110 võ sĩ (77 nam, 13 nữ). Đây rõ ràng không phải một con số khả quan với một quốc gia 100 triệu dân.
So sánh với các quốc gia khác trong khu vực, Philippines đang có 764 võ sĩ (753 nam, 11 nữ) trên 103 triệu dân. Thái Lan sở hữu 781 võ sĩ (634 nam, 147 nữ) trên 67 triệu dân. Số lượng võ sĩ của Việt Nam hiện mới xếp trên các quốc gia không nổi trội về Boxing chuyên nghiệp trong khu vực như Indonesia (91 võ sĩ), Singapore (16 võ sĩ), Malaysia (11 võ sĩ),...
Boxing Việt Nam bắt đầu trở lại từ những năm đầu thập niên 2002 kể từ sau lệnh cấm từ năm tại giải Vô địch Quốc gia 1994 ở Hải Phòng. Kể từ đó tới nay, chúng ta đã chứng kiến những bước tiến đáng kể ở đấu trường nghiệp dư: HCV SEA Games 2011, 2015, 2021 và 2023; HCĐ Asiad 2014, 2018; có ứng viên giành vé chính thức dự Olympic Tokyo 2020 gọi tên Nguyễn Thị Tâm - Nguyễn Văn Đương.
Dù vậy, Boxing chuyên nghiệp lại là câu chuyện khác khi đây là thị trường cần sự tham gia của các công ty tư nhân, hay còn được biết tới với tên gọi hình thức xã hội hóa.
Những nhà vô địch châu lục và thế giới có thể là hình mẫu để các công ty quảng bá đánh dấu hoạt động của mình tại thị trường Việt Nam. Tuy nhiên, câu chuyện "đào rộng trước khi đào sâu" vẫn là thách thức mà tất cả đang cùng phải giải quyết, bởi một nền Boxing chuyên nghiệp không thể chỉ dựa vào tên tuổi của những nhà vô địch ít ỏi.
Theo thống kê của BoxRec, từ năm 2015 tới nay, 27 sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp đã được tổ chức tại Việt Nam, chỉ bằng với số sự kiện được tổ chức tại Philippines từ tháng 7/2015 tới nay. Có lẽ, đây cũng chính là câu trả lời cho việc tại sao số lượng các võ sĩ chuyên nghiệp Việt Nam ít đến như vậy.
Hãy thử quan sát theo hai hướng sau: Nếu một công ty quảng bá muốn gây sự chú ý, họ sẽ cần những sự kiện lớn, với các trận tranh đai. Tuy nhiên, một sự kiện như vậy chỉ có thể cho phép tối đa 10-15 trận đấu. Liệu những võ sĩ mới bắt đầu thi đấu chuyên nghiệp có được lựa chọn xuất hiện tại đây?
Nếu tổ chức một sự kiện nhỏ, tạo cơ hội cho các võ sĩ mới xây dựng bảng thành tích, xuất hiện trên BoxRec với những trận đấu đầu tiên. Sự kiện đó sẽ không đủ sức hút với khán giả cũng như tạo tiếng vang trong cộng đồng.
Chúng ta không thể trách khán giả chỉ chú ý tới những sự kiện lớn như Victory 8, Fortunes of War, LEAD có sự xuất hiện của những võ sĩ nổi tiếng, nhưng điều đó chỉ đáp ứng được bề nổi của bài toán phát triển, mà không giải quyết được vấn đề cơ bản: số lượng võ sĩ.
Bài toán số lượng võ sĩ bắt đầu được tính đến giai đoạn cuối năm 2022, khi VSP Promotions giới thiệu chuỗi sự kiện chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro, liên tục đem đến những màn ra mắt của các võ sĩ chuyên nghiệp. Mục tiêu của VSP Pro không gì khác ngoài tạo dựng bảng thành tích cho các võ sĩ chưa tên tuổi, cho phép họ làm quen với sàn đấu chuyên nghiệp. Các trận đấu của họ được công nhận bởi những tổ chức WBO, IBF, WBC, cùng với các tổ chức Boxing tư nhân của Nhật Bản, Hàn Quốc hay Philippines.
Tương tự, LEAD Boxing sau hai sự kiện đầu tiên, cũng cho thấy sự xuất hiện của những cái tên chưa hề có tiếng tăm trong giới Boxing Việt Nam. Thành tích của họ bắt đầu được ghi nhận bởi các tổ chức như WBC, WBA.
Việc các công ty quảng bá bắt đầu dành nguồn đầu tư của mình cho các "tân binh", đã phần nào cho thấy bài toán số lượng của Boxing chuyên nghiệp Việt Nam đang được tìm cách giải quyết. Chúng ta cần nhiều sự kiện, nhiều cơ hội cho những võ sĩ mới, hơn là chỉ tập trung vào các trận đấu lớn chỉ để thu hút sự chú ý.
#webthethao #boxing #vothuat #vsppromotions #vspgym #vsppro #vspboxing
Tay đấm 28 tuổi dày dạn kinh nghiệm Lương Nguyễn Công Khải đánh dấu sự trở lại sàn boxing nhiều một thời gian khá dài nghỉ đánh vì chấn thương. Trong khi đó dù ít hơn đến 8 tuổi nhưng Trương Ngô Gia Huy cũng có thâm niên nhất định tập boxing và đạt thành tích ở giải boxing nghiệp dư quốc gia.
Áp sát đối phương với thể thủ high-guard trước khi tung ra đòn jab và móc cực nặng, lối đánh của Công Khải tưởng như đơn giản nhưng đạt hiệu quả rất tốt. Đặc biệt lực đánh của tay đấm từng phải nghỉ dài vì chấn thương vẫn rất đáng nể.
Vẫn lối thi đấu nhìn khá đơn giản, Công Khải ghi điểm với cú over-hand nặng ký trúng mặt đối thủ ngay đầu hiệp 2.Trong khi đó, ở những tình huống bị ép góc tay đấm trẻ Gia Huy cũng có những tình huống trả đòn bằng combo đấm móc trúng đích, nhưng lực đánh còn khá khiêm tốn.
Hiệp 3 chứng kiến võ sỹ trẻ Gia Huy tích cực di chuyển và ra đòn nhưng những đòn đánh của anh thường đi trúng đôi găng đã thủ thế sẵn của Công Khải. Ngược lại, dù ra đòn ít hơn nhưng Công Khải có những cú over-hand, móc phải thực sự nặng ký và chất lượng.
Hiệp đấu hai tay đấm vẫn không đẩy cao nhịp độ. Công Khải lộ rõ thể lực đi xuống và những đòn over-hand của anh cũng không còn tạo ra đột biến. Trong khi đó Gia Huy có những combo đấm móc phản đòn hiệu quả. Đây là hiệp đấu tay đấm 19 tuổi có lẽ là tìm thấy nhiều nhất đòn đấm trúng đích nhất trong cuộc so găng này.
Với việc cả hai không thể tìm thấy đòn knock-down và kịch bản trận đấu khá cân bằng, không ngạc nhiên khi 2/3 giám định chấm điểm hòa 38-38 và màn so găng giữa Công Khải vs. Gia Huy được thông báo kết quả hòa.
Ở lần thứ 3 thượng đài VSP Pro tay đấm 29 tuổi Khắc Dũng gặp đối thủ được đánh giá "dễ chịu" hơn. Tay đấm Hải Biền mới 17 tuổi và chưa có nhiều kinh nghiệm với boxing. Thực tế được chứng minh khi Khắc Dũng có những cú jab, body shot và đòn móc hiệu quả. Trong khi đó tay đấm trẻ Hải Biền cho thấy kỹ thuật ra đòn còn khá hạn chế.
Hiệp 2 Khắc Dũng tiếp tục duy trì nhịp độ thi đấu chậm, dùng các cú jab tầm thấp trước khi ra đòn móc. Chiến thuật này tiếp tục cho thấy hiệu quả và tay đấm đến từ Hà Nội ghi điểm tốt. Trong khi đó Hải Biền tích cực di chuyển và ra đòn nhưng các tổ hợp đòn chưa thật nhuần nhuyễn.
Kịch bản ở 2 hiệp cuối không có đột biến dù Khắc Dũng tiếp tục giữ nhịp đánh chậm vì thể lực đi xuống. Hải Biền không thể tận dụng được lợi thế sức trẻ, ngược lại, thi thoảng anh còn dính đòn đấm over-hand từ phía đối thủ. Trụ vững đến giây cuối cùng, Khắc Dũng đã có phần thưởng xứng đáng là chiến thắng đồng thuận (39-37, 39-37, 39-37).
