Hot prospects Erson Trinidad and Arjay Recopelacion are running a parallel course when they meet in Paranaque this August.

Both fighters looked promising types before the pandemic punctuated their progress. Neither boxer has seen ring time since way back in 2019.

Recopelacion is a young energetic fighter from the Hardstone Monis stable in LA Union. He put together 5 wins while still a teen, and landed a couple of KOs in the process. He is an orthodox fighter with good hand and foot speed, and puts his combos together really well.

Erson Trinidad is one of two talented brothers that appear at this event. He and brother Jahzeel hail from Palawan, and you will get to see, these boys are QUALITY !

Erson is not dissimilar in style to his opponent, he is a fast handed orthodox, and he put together 3 quick wins before he was forced to wait out the pandemic. Whilst you could argue he is an unknown quantity with no form since 2019, be advised that he has been sparring top opponents in preparation, and, he looks GREAT !

This is a fantastic match up between two young lions with lots of scope to win lots more in the future.

ERSON TRINIDAD v ARJAY RECOPELACION

6 rounds  Light Flyweight   108 pounds

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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

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Sweden's Linn Sandstrom returns to Manila on August 7th, where she takes on Thai Khwunchit Khunya in a bantamweight undercard bout.

It has already been a busy year for the Aussie trained boxer, who fought in the Philippines in March. As widely reported, Sandstrom came to boxing quite late, but is making up for lost time and will be chasing her 6th win as a pro against Khunya.

If you are in Manila and want to see Linn in action, please arrive early. It's a big day of undercard action !

LINN SANDSTROM v KHWUNCHIT KHUNYA

6 rounds  Bantamweight 54kg

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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

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Aisah “D’Striker” Alico resumed from a three year break from the sport, when beaten by Swedish visitor Linn Sandstrom back in March.

Despite the defeat, there was plenty to like about her first up showing.

Alico showed lots of clever hands and spontaneous attack in that contest, whereas her defense was mitigated some by the fact that she had a very short preparation, and she was contesting a heavier and less suitable weight class.

Linn Sandstrom (who also appears on the card) had nothing but praise for her opponent:

“She hit me with some great shots, and her power really surprised me. Aisah is tough too, I think if she was fully fit then it would have been really hard to stop her. I’m sure she will improve a lot on today’s performance if she can get another fight soon”

Cagayan de Oro native Alico will take on Allen Joy Solidarios, a debutant from the Nietes Stable Negros Occidental. Not much is known about Solidarios, except she is young, fast and has potential. She will be well schooled, and she will definitely have good knowledge of the sort of threats that her opponent can bring to the ring.

This will be a much more suitable weight class for southpaw Alico, who will fight here at around 10 pounds lighter than her March outing. With 7 wins to her credit, Alico clearly has an experience edge on her rival, so expect to see her show a very offensive display when these two girls meet early next month in Paranaque.

AISAH ALICO v ALLEN JOY SOLIDARIOS

4 rounds   Minimum Weight 105 pounds

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Clarence Breboneria showed some great form in sparring against more experienced fighters before a debut points loss. He is definitely way better than his first effort, and will be looking to make amends against Taraki Boxing Gym's Yvan Espolon.

Yvan "the Terrble" Espolon is on debut, but has been observed doing nice sparring in preparation for ANNIHILATION UKC, including work with Patrick Ballatong, a boxer that also appears on this card. Espolon is an orthodox fighter with a relaxed style and nice reach, and defintely has the style to give Breboneria problems.

This is a good fight, and as both these guys lack pro experience, will likely be resolved by the one who can set into their rhythm first  and make consistent touches.

CLARENCE BREBONERIA v YVAN ESPOLON

4 rounds   Featherweight 57kg

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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

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ANNIHILATION UKC will play host to some visiting international boxers, but perhaps none more intriguing than Vietnam legend Nguyen Van Hai !

Despite not having seen the inside of a boxing ring since 2020, Hai is a master of various fight forms, and has the skills and experience to make the biggest tasks seem  simple! His eagerness to compete in Manila was hugely obvious, so much so he did not even ask about the opponent or weight class when invited to fight!

The Hanoi based athlete is renowned for his strength and defensive skills, and though he has extensive amateur experience, has only two pro fights on his resume. He was successful in both bouts, with one ending in stoppage.

Jerald Into is an exciting young southpaw with nice balance and ring savvy. He has an excellent jab that he delivers with variety, and is extremely patient in setting up his shots which is great to see.

And the boy's got POWER!

Jerald Into has won all 4 bouts to date, and done so with conviction, all opponents dispatched by ominous KO !

This has all the makings of the "fight of the day" -  we have all the question marks hanging over the ring return of an almost mythical action figure in Nguyen Van Hai, countered by the rapidly developing but already dangerous Jerald Into.

IF YOU DON'T LOVE THIS, YOU DON'T LOVE BOXING !

NGUYEN VAN HAI v JERALD INTO

6 rounds   Lightweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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

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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

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Hot prospect Antonio Uy makes his second appearance in August when he takes

on debutant Patrick Ballatong. And he is very definitely one to keep an eye on.

And I’ll tell you why!

The “Crossman” made a highly impressive start to his career back in May when he stopped Carlo Diaz, a boxer who appears to have a bright future in his own right.

Anonio Uy is an orthodox boxer from Gingoog City, and has whips of speed and power that complement his excellent boxing skills.

Patrick Ballatong is an experienced exponent of the kick version of the sport, and makes his pure boxing professional debut against a white hot opponent. He also is an orthodox style fighter, and is noted to have extensive sparring against good opponents, and has some very credible amateur performances, that will surely hold him in good stead in his upcoming assignment with Antonio Uy.

ANTONIO UY v PATRICK BALLATONG

4 rounds Super Flyweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Juanito Hondante and Malfred Majadas will contest what is destined to be a furious undercard bout at ANNIHILATION UKC next month.

The “Mad Dog” Malfred Majadas is based in Paranaque, and made his pro debut back in March of 2018, when he defeated Rosenido Autida by majority decision. Following on from that success he was able to maintain a busy schedule, which is great for any aspiring young fighter, winning 3 of his 4 bouts to date. This activity was punctuated by the pandemic, and Majadas wasn't seen again till March of this year.

The Mad Dog took on John Jayvee Antonio in Paranaque, and in what was a quality curtain raiser, the clash ended in a Draw. Majadas was the heavier puncher in that bout, landing some thudding shots, but his ring rust and impatience let him down defensively. It's a fair bet that we will see a similar attacking energy from the Mad Dog in his upcoming match, but likely tempered by tidier defense and punch selection.

Juanito Hondante has scored 3 wins to date, and favours trading, which can be a rocks or diamonds strategy. He is vulnerable to counters, but when he gets it right, he has scored knockout wins.

This will be a "blink and you miss it" encounter, and it's impossible not to predict  a stoppage !

MAL MAJADAS v JUANITO HONDANTE

6 rounds       Minimumweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Some cracking undercard bouts, and the inclusion of some foreign invaders, just to add flavour!

Nguyen Van Hai from Vietnam makes his first international pro appearance when he takes on home boy Jerald Into. Hai is a master at many fight forms, and though he hasn't boxed for some time, his clash with the unbeaten Into will be one of the highlights of ANNIHILATION UKC.

Linn Sandstrom promised a busy 2022, and the popular Swedish up and comer returns after a successful March appearance with Aisah Alico. She matches up with Thailand visitor Khwunchit Khunya.

Mickey Pengue from Australia is an outstanding type, but was derailed in a regional belt fight recently after damaging his ear drum in the opening round. He is on a quick back up in Paranaque, looking to steady the ship against the solid Gerry Patenio. The local boxer showed good signs in his last fight against tall timber Al Cañega, so will be no pushover for the impressive Aussie.

Roland Jay Biendima is a dynamo, and after a quality showing against national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas, he scored an emphatic win over Powell Balaba. Rest assured, he will be looking to carry on the good work when he meets Joel Taduran.

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Sweden's Linn Sandstrom had previously visited the Philippines for training camps back in 2019, and returned in March of this year to fight with Cagayan De Oro's Aisah Alico.

Both girls are back for ANNIHILATION UKC, but this time face different opponents. The "Sandstorm" has kept busy, winning bouts in Costa Rica and Australia since her Manila success.

"I love the Philippines, the people are warm like the weather. They always make me feel very welcome, it's almost like I'm an honorary citizen. I'm very excited to be back fighting there again, and really pumped to be on a card with so many great and talented boxers" enthused the Swedish slugger.

Linn Sandstrom will fight Thailand's Khwunchit Khunya in a 6 round bantamweight contest.

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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

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Ali Cañega is back this August, and the man known as "Carnage" is looking to build on his growing reputation. Already successful in two bouts this year, Cañega was most recently seen in May, grinding a physical points win over Gerry Patenio (who also makes an appearance on this card against the Aussie Michael Pengue)

Marbon Bodiongan is a "wildcard" entry, but an interesting one, as he hasn't been sighted since 2019. He had two bouts that year for a win and a loss (on the road in Japan)

Why interesting ? Well this is a guy that has infrequently fought in recent years, but he can really box. "Bongbong" has knocked out boxers of the calibre of Michael Dasmarinas and Landy Cris Leon earlier in his career, so if he is anywhere near that form, Cañega is in for a helluva fight!

ALI CAÑEGA v MARBON BODIONGAN

8 rounds Super Lightweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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PNG best boxer is headed to HCMC Vietnam to fight on July 28th and again in Manila on August 6th.

*story courtesy of PNG Attitude

JUNIOR RAKA : IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE GREAT

Martin Beni died last November while officiating at boxing championships in Port Moresby. It's been left to middleweight Junior Kauko Raka to carry forward Beni’s vision. He feels the old champion’s spirit at his back whenever he fights

The best Papua New Guinean boxer to emerge since Martin Beni 50 years ago departs PNG at the end of this month for bouts in the Philippines and Vietnam.

Beni had decided to return from retirement in 2018 to train lightweight boxer Junior Kauko Raka from the Bali-Vitu Islands in West New Britain Province.

“I want to witness the crowning of a PNG boxing champion before I close my eyes,” Beni said at the

But it was not to be, as the old man closed his eyes and died last November from a sudden heart attack at the age of 70 while officiating at boxing championships in Port Moresby.

It was left up to Raka to carry forward Beni’s vision and he feels the old champion’s spirit at his back whenever he fights.

Raka’s bouts in the Philippines and Vietnam are his final outings before his world title shot in October at Port Moresby’s John Guise stadium.

“This will be huge,” says a member of Raka’s support team, Joseph Kanene.

“Junior is a worthy successor to the great Martin Beni.

“Beni came out of retirement to train him believing he could become PNG’s first world champion.”

Now Kanene and Raka’s team are seeking sponsors for the bouts in the Philippines and Vietnam.

The first fight is in Vietnam on Friday 29 July and Kanene is hoping for sponsorship funding from reputable companies or organisations.

“Junior will promote their companies and merchandise and mention their names in the media every chance he gets,” said Kanene.

“He is another Martin Beni on the rise to international sporting stardom.”

Junior throws a right in a recent bout

On Saturday 6 August Raka will contest an exhibition bout in Paranaque, Manila, with Philippines champion, Roldan ‘The Cobra’ Aldea.

In Raka's previous fight against Aldea he lost narrowly on points in a World Boxing Association title match last year.

This was one of his three international bouts so far. Raka won the other two by knockout.

“Junior’s trip to Asia will remove ring rust and set him on course for the World Boxing Association’s Asia super featherweight title,” said Kanene.

“But we need more funds for the two weeks stay in the Philippines and Vietnam.

“Whoever sponsors him will get a huge boost because the country loves him and he deserves enough money to train, eat and support his family of three.”

Junior Raka is now trained by Ephraim Montero, the well-known coach and trainer from South Bougainville.

Martin Beni - the Michael Somare of the ring - put PNG boxing on the sporting world map. Now his protégée Junior Raka seeks to do it again.

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It pays to be versatile, and former musician Rica Aquino makes no secret of her love for the sport of boxing. A relatively late starter to tackling the pros, the girl known as "Baby Dynamite" resumes from a three year hiatus when she clashes with debutant Erika Ballen at ANNIHILATION UKC next month.

Aquino, who also has a passionate involvement in boxing media, is a sponge for information, and is working hard on fitness and skills for her first fight back.

And who better to learn from than the exquisite Miss Gretel De Paz!

Gretel is one of the Philippines best performed pros, and was even recently a SEA Games medalist in Muay Thai.  De Paz has twice been a member of the World Team against Vietnam, where she joined fighters of the calibre of Mateo Tapia, Charly Suarez, Danilo Creati, Virgel Vitor and Michael Pengue.

They say if you go swimming, you gonna get wet, and we are sure Rica got in the deep end of the pool today!

RICA AQUINO v ERIKA BALLEN

4 rounds Bantamweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th

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It may get rough, it may get ugly, but it’s also one of the most highly anticipated match ups at ANNIHILATION UKC this August.

RoyRoy “d’Hammer” Sumugat meets Jufel “the Lion” Salina, and they are vowing to test each other “mano e mano” - in true Southpaw style!

Jufel Salina resumed from almost a two year absence to score an  excellent stoppage win against Kresler Tenorio at the end of 2021. The Lion has managed to stay busy in 2022, and it has paid dividends. He faced the promising Jonniel Laurente in February, and in what appeared anybody’s fight, the judges agreed. Tenorio earned a Majority Draw, and in this match he really displayed significant improvements on his first up win. He then faced a really promising type in the shape of Justin Cabarles, and while its fair to say his opponent had some ring rust, the manner in which Tenorio stopped Cabarles was ultra impressive. This Davao born fighter has now scored 5 wins, 4 coming by knockout, so he obviously lacks nothing in the power department. The Lion is a rapidly improving fighter on the upswing. He’s dangerous!

Roy Roy Sumugat makes his return to the ring after an unfortunate (and unexpected) stoppage loss at the hands of Juanito Paredes in late 2021. It was a match theat the man known as D’Hamer was favoured to win, but one that he will nonetheless derive plenty of benefit. Till then , it was a very successful year for the charismatic boxer.

D’Hammer had scored two stoppage victories already in 2021, and was showing no signs of slowing up!!

In May 2021, he landed a surprise round one knockout over the rugged Eljohn Evangelista, and then followed up in September with another knockout win over Glenn Bismanos. That match proved to be a great test of character for Sumugat, as he was actually dropped himself in round one, and bounced back to eventually wear down the dangerous Bismanos.

Sumugat is originally from Bacolod City, but is  based in Manila with the Elorde team. He is constantly surrounded by quality fighters in that environment, and there is no doubt that the man known as D’Hammer has flourished this year with some regular sparring and competition.

Roy has a natural flair for distance and timing, and knows how to drop the hammer when he has an opponent in trouble. This former “part time” fighter is a major talent, and he has already notched up 12 wins against formidable opponents.

Be in no doubt that RoyRoy will have recovered nicely and will be in crazy shape for his assignment with Salina.

This promises to be one of the standout bouts of the day, but will also provide a real measure of how far Tenorio has grown as a fighter, or alternatively, how wilfully a vengeful Sumugat can out skill his less experienced opponent.

RoyRoy Sumugat v Jufel Salina

8 rounds Super Featherweight

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Mark Magsayo is striving for the world #1 spot when he battles unbeaten 35 and 0 Rey Vargas in Texas today. Whilst showing flaws in his unblemished career thus far, Magsayo has equally shown an ability to improve with every new challenge, and brings speed and power to the ring that very few can surpass.

But he is not the Philippines lone hope to shine bright on the world stage!

Charly Suarez is without doubt the best and most technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced (and yes, we are including the phenomenon that is Manny Pacquiao) He has been the most heralded amateur of the last decade, winning three SEA Games gold, and losing controversially at the Olympics to the outstanding Joe Cordina. This British boxer is now IBF World champ, after destroying Japan's Kenichi Ogawa with a stunning knockout.

The King's Warrior's world claims were scalable long ago. It is now almost part of folklore that he faced the fabled Vasyl Lomachenko on 5 days notice and visibly injured, only to make the champion work overtime to earn a victory. The Philippines Suarez was out of the ring for 18 months to rehabilitate from this extraordinary effort.

Charly Suarez has made an immediate impact in the pro ranks, and it could be argued that as successful as he was as an amateur, he's even better suited to the longer round format. The unbeaten fighter has amassed 11 wins in extra quick time, and is looking to a WBA title defense next month against Mark John Yap.

And it is expected that the busy Suarez will have at least two more fights this year.

No rest if you are chasing a world title !

Good luck to Mark Magsayo today, and to Charly Suarez, it won't be long before these world top 10 can't hide from you!

CHARLY SUAREZ  v MARK JOHN YAP

WBA Asia Super Featherweight title

ANNIHILATION UKC

Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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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.

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Seven Vietnam warriors making their debuts against foreign fighters from Australia, Sweden, Papua New Guinea and Malta.

Catch all the action live from VSP Boxing Gym in HCMC on Thursday July 28th.

First bout starts at 7pm.

Get there early or watch it here live !

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Allan Villanueva looked a quality prospect ever since debuting back in 2015, winning 7 of his first 8 matches by Knockout.

He has since gone on to win 11 bouts, with his two lone losses coming at the hands of outstanding Omega boxers Carlo Bacaro and Tomjune Mangubat. Villanueva has been rewarded for his stellar form with a shot at the WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title, but he has a significant obstacle standing between himself and victory – that being the carved from granite Al “The Rock” Toyogan!

Toyogan likewise has been in excellent touch. The Rock resumed from a two year break in late 2021, stopping Lloyd Jardeliza who was also on the comeback trail. Toyogan consolidated that form in February of this year, when he proved a brutal victor over 13 fight winner Joe Tejones. The match started in torrid fashion, and the tough Tejones wore some great shots, but the accumulation was telling, and Toyogan felled the experienced opponent in dominant style in round two.

Although short in stature, The Rock clearly packs plenty of power, and has a superb chin. Toyogan was the winner of the WBC Asia Silver title back in 2018, a title he successfully defended against the Japanese fighter Ryusei Ishii. He has shared the ring with many other outstanding boxers, and sometimes it is in defeat, that a fighter’s best qualities are seen to the fore. In 2019, The Rock faced former world champion and demonic puncher Jorge Linares, and weathered 10 torrid rounds with the star. He also landed significant shots of his own, many putting the shocked Linares back on on his heels.

Al Toyogan hails from the northern Mindanao region of Gingoog City, and went pro in 2015. In that time, he has amassed 12 wins, with his first regional title coming within 3 years of his debut. Impressive!

Add to that the fact that he has scored 8 knockouts against sturdy opposition, and you start getting the picture that facingThe Rock is no walk in the park!

Allan Villanueva and Al Toyogan are both dynamic young fighters that favour their power. This is an epic contest between two high ranked lightweights that are looking towards overseas opportunities. This will no doubt be a barnburner, and irrespective of the result, expect these two to go on to many more exciting victories.

But if Villanueva to prove successful in his quest to win the lightweight belt, the task will be easier said than done, as he will need to scale the immovable “Rock” named Al Toyogan!

Al Toyogan v Allan Villanueva

WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title

ANNIHILATION UKC

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday August 7th

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

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Charly Suarez    11 wins   WBA champion

Mark John Yap  30 wins   Challenger

Two other belt titles on the line, with Al Toyogan and Allan Villanueva doing battle at Lightweight, and live wires Lito Dante and Clyde Azarcon out for blood at Minimumweight.

International visitors include former Australasian champ Michael Pengue, Swedish bombshell Linn Sandstrom, and from Vietnam, the legendary fighting man Nguyen Van Hai.

Many great fights on this card, with fight summaries coming soon!

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Davao's Charly Suarez returned to Manila this week after a short stint in his native Davao. The King's Warrior is on a quick turnaround, after winning a warm up bout in Bohol in early July in preparation for his upcoming WBA title defense. The champ reunited this week with strategist and coach Delfin Boholst, who is based in Manila. Boholst has thus far proved to be a mentor of high calibre, and was himself a successful member of the Philippines national team.

Suarez was slated to fight no less than four outstanding foreign opponents for his Manila defense, with all withdrawing at the last moment for various reasons.

VSP Promotions are a huge fan of Mark John Yap, and when this boxer became available, he was immediately secured to match up with Suarez. Yap is arguably one of the best internationally performed  pinoy in recent years, playing headmaster to an extremely tough school in Japan. Between 2015 and 2018, he literally terrorized that country's best fighters, before returning to the Philippines for a Knockout victory in CDO. His recent "losses" have been last moment call ups against unbeaten foreign opponents, often in unsuitable weight class.

And for those who think that Yap is past tense, THINK AGAIN, and check his most recent effort in Dubai against unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra.

Yap took this match at two weeks notice, jumped a weight class, and floored Hererra with a body shot. Hererra is a Cuban national champ, and world youth semi finalist, and had a massive 5 inches height advantage on Mark John Yap.

Coach Delfin Boholst is enthusiastic about the challenge ahead.

"We are really honored, and looking forward to the test against Yap. He is definitely the most experienced pro we have faced so far, and he has been a warrior for the Philippines against top fighters overseas. We do not underestimate the talents of this man, and we are preparing to see the very best of Mark John Yap in August".

"As for Suarez team, the job is never finished. We always look to improve, and we will always be prepared for any opponent. We are not looking past Mark John Yap,  but going forward, we would love to fight Liam Wilson of Australia. We would also love the chance to rematch world champ Joe Codrington, it's one we are very excited for !"

Suarez v Yap will fight for the WBA Asia title in Paranaque Manila on Sunday August 7th.

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Dana Coolwell weighed in 57.0kg, dead on the featherweight limit.

Bukidnon's Lorenz Ladrada looked great at 56.8kg.

The Aussie indigenous star and Ladrada will battle out 8 rounds tomorrow night at the Gold Coast on the undercard of the Mairis Briedis world cruiserweight title defense. Briedis has suffered only one loss in a glittering career,  that being at the hands of current heavyweight world champ Oleksandr Usyk.

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*story courtesy of Yahoo! News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Outstanding pinoy Mark John Yap returns to the local fight scene on Sunday August 7th, where he takes on rising star Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title.

Yap has proved to be one of the Philippines most successful exports in recent years. Between 2015 and 2018, he literally tore the Japanese bantamweight division to shreds, winning and successfully defending the OPBF title on no less than four occasions. He then returned to the Philippines, and in front of his home town, knocked out the exciting 130lb prospect Ulysses Lagos (12-2)

The experienced Mark John Yap has met some of the world's best fighters, and had no hesitation jumping at the opportunity to fight the freakish Suarez.

"I know with the right preparation, I can give anyone a great fight, and I really look forward to seeing if Suarez is as good as they say".

Mark John Yap heads to Manila on August 7th with the phenomenal record of 30 wins and 15 knockouts. Considering his calibre of opponents in the last 8 years, the talented "Journey Man" could easily have amassed 50 wins !

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

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

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

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*story courtesy Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines – With the Philippines beginning to open further after two crippling years of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, boxer Lito Dante is one of those eager to reclaim his old life and, well, battle for a championship.

On Sunday, Dante (18-11-4) will fight Cebuano pugilist Clyde Azarcon for the WBF International minimumweight championship at the Elorde Sports Complex in Sucat, Parañaque.

The bout against Azarcon will be Dante’s second of the year after the 32-year-old Bohol native knocked out Ryan Ralozo last April 30. Because of the quick win, Dante did not sustain any serious injuries that allows him to fight four months later.

“Matagal-tagal din tayo walang laban,” smiled Dante. “Kaya naghahabol din.”

Dante, who now calls Valenzuela home, also has a dual purpose in needing to win this fight.

“Kung pagpalain tayo at manalo sa laban na ito, makakabalik ako sa world rankings,” explained the man nicknamed “Naruto.”

His inactivity during the global lockdown saw him unable to defend Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation minimumweight title that he won in 2019.

“Excited ako sa laban na ito at makabawi, enthused Dante who has been training under the watchful eye of Florence Ferrer, former national team boxer, Southeast Games medalist, and known for training the first ever Filipina world boxing champion in Gretchen Abaniel.

He won’t find it easy against Azarcon, who is five years his junior and has a better overall record at 17-4-1. Furthermore, he is taller and has a slightly longer reach.

Azarcon, though, is coming off a loss to John Paul Gabunilas last March 19.

“Ang masasabi ko lang is pagbubutihin ko ang pag-ensayo at sa pagdating ng laban sa Agosto,” summed up Dante.

Dante will be co-headlining the August 7 event along with former Olympian Charly Suarez (11-0), who will defend his WBA Asia super featherweight belt against Marjohn Yap (30-16). Meanwhile, Allan Villanueva (11-2) and Al Toyogon (12-6-1) slug it out for the vacant WBF Asia Pacific lightweight championship.

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*story courtesy philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines – "What is a pretty and educated girl like you doing in sweaty boxing gyms and trying to knock someone out?"

Rica Aquino has heard it before.

It’s a little more “complicated” than that.

Aquino graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of the Philippines and played with the Manila Symphony Orchestra for 10 years. She also taught music at Brent International School for six years.

Well, she still performs when the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra needs an extra musician and teaches music literature at the Philippine High School for the Arts.

But when Aquino is outside the performance hall and classroom, she’s a professional boxer.

“I have been fascinated with fighting sports (even as a child) but as a child playing the violin and as a professional musician, I was restricted in terms of the sports I wanted to do,” Rica related. “So I took up combat sports when I was an adult already and after I had resigned from the orchestra.”

Now, as a 39-year old, Aquino is looking to make her mark in professional boxing.

“I love the competitive aspect of the sport, the discipline, and of course, the risk and thrill of competing.”

Boxing is actually her third sport as she previously took up Muay Thai where she was a National Games silver medalist. She then took up mixed martial arts under the famed Team Lakay of Mark Sangiao.

On August 7, Aquino (0-0-1) will take part in her second professional fight at UKC Annihilation at the Elorde Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.

She will square off against a familiar foe from the past in Erika Ballen, who she first tangled with in 2017 as an amateur.

“We faced each other in 2017 and now, five years later, things have changed,” said Aquino, who won that encounter via first round technical knockout. “I’m excited to see how much we have changed and developed.”

Rica previously fought Indian boxer Deepika Tiwari, who brought her 1-1-2 record to the ring against the Filipina. The fight ended in a draw.

“The fight card in August is amazing,” enthused Aquino. “I am honored to be fighting with my idols Charly Suarez and my teammate Lito Dante. Some of the other boxers are also my friends so I am excited for this card.”

“I have been training hard for this fight as women’s fights are few in this country. I will give it my best and try to get that first professional win.”

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Bukidnon's Lorenz Ladrada resumed from a 2 year hiatus in early 2021, only to enjoy the busiest of years,  winning 4 of his 5 matches, and pleasingly, showing constant improvements with each outing.
His consistency has been rewarded with a fight in Australia against one of that country's best super featherweight prospects,  the very "Deadly" Dana Coolwell. The Aussie is one of those beautiful indigenous fighters, really fast hands, lots of clever volume, and blessed with intuitive skills and movement! And similar to Ladrada, each time we see Coolwell he just gets better and better. His last match was a narrow points loss for a world youth title that many believe he won.
This is a really interesting fight!
Coolwell is 2 to 3 weight classes above Ladrada, who also happens to be the much shorter boxer.
But the Aussie bout will be on the "middle ground " of featherweight, and as you can see from today's picture, Ladrada will strip very strongly at this weight. Dana Coolwell is tall and still growing, so it remains to be seen if he can bring his usual energy and pop to this world title undercard.
This is one of best undercards in Australia this year, and Ladrada v Coolwell is the main support to the world cruiser title between Mairis Briedis and Jai Opetaia.
Action coming from the Gold Coast July 2nd.
GO LADRADA !!!

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Bukidnon's Lorenz "Cerberus" Ladrada ventures to Australia to face outstanding prospect Dana Coolwell at the Gold Coast on July 2nd.

On what is a night showcasing some of of Australia's best talent, Ladrada fights on the main undercard to a cracking world title Cruiserweight showdown between Mairis Briedis and Jai Opetaia.

Dana Coolwell is a natural super featherweight,  and Ladrada a super bantam, yet the Aussie match will be held on middle ground of featherweight !

Whilst Coolwell will hold a height and reach advantage, what will be key is whether he can maintain his outstanding workrate at this lower weight class. If down on energy,  he faces a tough night at the office with the Philippines' Lorenz Ladrada !!

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FORMER Olympian Charly Suarez returns to the ring on Aug. 7 to defend his World Boxing Association (WBA) Asia super featherweight belt against what should be one of his toughest opponent to date, veteran Marjohn Yap, in the main event of UKC Tiger - “Annihilation” at the Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Center in Parañaque City.

The 33-year-old Suarez hopes to get a world ranking and an impressive win over an experienced former regional champion like Yap could boost him up the super-featherweight ladder.

Suarez started the year 2022 with a 12th-round technical knockout of prospect Tomjune Mangubat to win the vacant WBA Asia super-featherweight strap in Parañaque City last March. He followed it up with a unanimous decision win over tough Junny Salogaol last June 10 in Bohol.

Yap, on the other hand, is on a three-fight slump, fighting in the US and Dubai.

The 33-year-old Yap lost to one-time world title challenger Angelo Leo, undefeated American up-and-comer Angel Alejandro and unbeaten Cuban prospect Jadier Herrera.

Before his short campaign in the US, Yap had an impressive seven-year stint in Japan, where he won the Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) bantamweight belt and went 12-5. He won against the likes of former interim WBA minimumweight champion Juan Jose Landaeta and three-time world title challenger Hiroyuki Kudaka.

Suarez is 11-0 with seven knockouts, while Yap is 30-16 with 15 knockouts.

Also featured in the same card are two World Boxing Foundation (WBF) regional bouts.

Clyde Azarcon (17-4-1, 6 KOs) fights against battle-scarred veteran Lito Dante (18-11-4, 10 KOs) for the vacant WBF International minimumweight strap, while Allan Villanueva (11-2, 8 KOs) slugs it out with Al Toyogon (12-6-1, 8 KOs) for the vacant WBF Asia Pacific lightweight belt.

Also booked in the undercard is Vietnamese Van Hai Nguyen (2-0, 1 KO) taking on fellow unbeaten prospect Jerald Into (4-0, 4 KOs).

*story courtesy SunStar

*photo: Suarez and Vietnam's Nguyen Van Hai

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With three Championship title matches in one event, UKC Tiger ANNIHILATION brings to you triple-header championship matches with 18 undercard bouts!

Featuring the title defense of WBA Asia Super featherweight champion Charly "King's Warrior" Suarez, as well as two vacant championship matches for the WBF International Minimumweight title and the WBF Asia Pacific Lightweight title.

All of these must-watch fights are set to take place at the Grand Ballroom, Elorde Sports Complex, Sucat, Paranaque City on August 7th.

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One of the most interesting bouts at ANNIHILATION UKC will feature the appearance of Vietnam's Nguyen Van Hai.

Hai is regarded as the most experienced "multiple forms" fighter in Vietnam, whether it be with gloves, kicks or sticks!

Despite not having competed as a boxer in a long time, Hai has the muscle memory to fight any size, and at any time. The 59kg fighter was listed to fight Jino Rodrigo at 64kg as recently as March, but was unable to fulfill due to planes not flying.

This time around, he is pitched against the very promising and unbeaten southpaw Jerald Into at 61kg, a fighter that achieved 4 KO in his wins thus far. Into obviously has power, but impressively, sets everything up with a nice jab and is very clever at precise shot selection.

Nguyen Van Hai is well known in Vietnam for sparring westerners literally 30kg heavier than himself, so its fair to presume that nothing daunts this man, and his clash with Into will be one of the highlight bouts on Sunday August 7th.

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Charly Suarez was in training mode with a shutout win over a tough and resilient Junny Salogaol in Bohol last night.

The King's Warrior was chasing some rounds in preparation for his upcoming title defense,  and Salogaol did admirably to weather the storm and survive the 6 rounds. While it's fair to say that Suarez's opponent came to survive rather than compete, the plan worked, and the King's Warrior was able to dazzle the crowd with his footwork, hand speed and withering combinations.

WBA title defense is coming August 7th !

This will be a stacked show, and held in the Elorde Ballroom in Paranaque and must not be missed. It's possibly the last chance to see Charly Suarez to fight in front of his home crowd, so get there to cheer him on. LOUDLY!!!

Announcement on who will be the Suarez opponent, and the rest of the fight card coming soon.

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There were lots of promising fighters at last night's show in Bohol, spearheaded by victories by local Virgel Vitor and Davao's Charly Suarez in the co-main events.

Rhonvex Capuloy is definitely one to keep on the watch list, scoring a stoppage win with a body shot in the second round.

Perhaps the most competitive contest of the night was between Joseph Sumabong and Zandy Padiran, with Sumabong prevailing with a points win.

This was high quality work from both fighters, and whilst Sumabong deserved the decision with some artful strikes, Zandy Padiran was ultra impressive. It is almost impossible to believe that these two fighters only have four wins between them, as they both showed signs of being way more experienced. Definitely put a watch on these two, they are both excellent.

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FORMER Olympian Charly Suarez keeps himself busy in a six-round fight against journeyman Junny Salogaol on June 10 in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Suarez is coming off the biggest win of his career after stopping young prospect Tomjune Mangubat to win the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Asia super featherweight belt last March 12 in Paranaque City.

The 33-year-old Suarez is preparing for a title defense in August against a foreign opponent.

Salogaol, in the meantime, is a very experienced fighter that has elite opposition, the likes of Hiroaki Teshigawara and Joe Noynay.

He’s dropped his last four contests and is coming off a split decision loss against former regional champion Jessie Cris Rosales.

Suarez is 10-0 with seven knockouts, while Salogaol is 14-19-5 with 13 knockouts.

Virgel Vitor faces Jecker Buhawe in a six-round co-main event.

Vitor won three straight fights since losing to veteran Mark Anthony Geraldo. He’s coming off a unanimous decision win over Lorence Rosas last December.

Buhawe, on the other hand, is on a six-fight slump and is fresh from a second round knockout in the hands of Jun Blazo last April.

Vitor is 16-2 with nine knockouts, while Buhawe is 16-16-1 with 10 knockouts.

In the undercard, Danrick Sumabong (11-2, 8 KOs) locks horns with Royder Lloyd Borbon (6-12-1, 6 KOs); Rhonvex Capuloy (7-2, 4 KOs) fights Vicento Casido (6-4-1, 2 KOs); Joseph Sumabong (1-0, 1 KO) trades leathers with Zandy Padiran (3-3-1, 1 KO); Chris John Daan (1-0) is up against Cedie Noblefranca (0-7-1); and Richard Taculod makes his pro debut against Steve Noblefranca (1-4-1).

* story courtesy of SunStar

Fights start at 6pm

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

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Junny Salogaol and Charly Suarez look ready to hit the blue water, and they will, but not until after tomorrow's big event on the picturesque Island of Bohol.

Both fighters weighed in at 132 for their bout on Friday evening, with Salogaol looking the bigger of the two.

Junny resumes from  SD loss to Jessie Cris Rosales at super lightweight (140) and Suarez is a touch above his usual fight weight of 130.

Charly Suarez will defend his WBA title in Manila on August 7th, and the sojourn to Bohol is a great opportunity to help prepare for that match. It is expected that Suarez will be facing an unbeaten foreign boxer, with news on that coming soon.

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Make sure you tune in tomorrow night for some fun fight action direct from the mystical island of Bohol.

All boxers made weight at a very relaxed event held earlier today.

Danrick Sumabong and Virgel Vitor are two of the better known fighters taking part in Friday's pro card, which will be preceded by some high octane amateur action.

Watch the fights on Elorde TV, and shared here live, from 6pm.

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Boxing fans, don't miss some top class fighters showing their stuff this Friday evening on the beautiful island of Bohol.

Rhonvex Capuloy, Virgel Vitor, Danrick Sumabong and none other than the King's Warrior Charly Suarez will take part in this fantastic provincial offering to boxing lovers.

The appearance of Philippines best boxer Charly Suarez is a huge treat for locals, as it is likely the last opportunity to seem him perform live. His bout will be a prelude to a WBA defense in Manila on August 7th,  which will likely mark the champ's last local appearance for some time.

It is expected that Suarez will fight overseas in October, and again in Vietnam on December 11th, in pursuit of more titles and world rankings.

News on a Suarez opponent for August 7th in Manila is expected to break soon.

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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!

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Boxers need to keep busy!

Charly Suarez defends his WBA title in Manila on August 7th, but will take part in a  provincial event this Friday to assist in his preparations for that task.

And because Bohol love their boxing!

Some great fighters will compete at the show, including local star Virgel Vitor (16 wins), Danrick Sumabong (11 wins) and Rhonvex Capuloy (7 wins).

This is a great opportunity for Suarez to get some rounds in before his Manila assignment on August 7th.

Expect a WBA title opponent to be named for the King's Warrior in coming days.

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The true to life, modern day action hero himself, THE WOLVERINE,  JonJon Estrada on the plane this morning and heading to Osaka.

Estrada won't be on holiday while he's there, he has the important job of preparing former world champ Tomoki Kameda (38 wins) for his upcoming bout with some torrid sparring sessions.

All we can say is, good luck Kameda, you're gunna need it!

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Annihilation UKC is assembling an all star cast for Sunday August 7th!

We are going for an international flavour and have already secured Michael Pengue (Australia), Linn Sandstrom (Sweden) and the iconic Nguyễn Văn Hải (Vietnam) to come to Manila and mix it up with the Philippines fighters.

The biggest news is that Charly Suarez will defend his WBA belt, and we are very close to terms with a foreign opponent that claims he will halt the world title aspirations of the local star.

We say - bring it on!

This will be a MUST NOT MISS event,  big news breaking soon on the full fight card!

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Nobody does SELF BELIEF better than George "Ferocious" Kambosos.

And nobody disputes the ethereal skills of Devin "the Dream" Haney.

But as Kambosos bluntly puts it

"Haney will be ready for this fight, but I am ready to go to WAR!"

Great pic sums it up at today's media conference, courtesy of:

Vinny Nguyen photography

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Banging times ahead for some of the Elorde crew.

Gretel De Paz heads to Australia in June, then Lorenz Ladrada to Australia, Cris Ganoza and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada to Japan, and Jules Victoriano to Vietnam, all in July.

Ranny Quizo also meets Rodel Suganob in a local derby that same month.

DON'T FORGET we will have a big card for Manila on August 7th, where we are working to get the Philippines best Charly Suarez his first foreign opponent in the professional ranks.

Also very exciting news breaking late last night is the appearance at this show of the promising and unbeaten Jerald Into.

For those who aren't familiar with the name, you are sure to hear a lot more!

This is a boxer who has settled his first  4 fights with dramatic Knockouts !

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VSP young gun Lorenz Ladrada heads to Queensland in July to fight top flight Aussie Dana Coolwell, and what's more, its on a World Title undercard!

Bukidnon's Ladrada has yet to fight this year, but had a successful 2021 with 4 wins from 5 outings. His lone loss was a split decision to the very exciting Gary Tamayo.

Dana Coolwell is one of the best prospects in Australian boxing, and is coming down from 130 to take on Ladrada.

As reported by promoter Tasman Fighters:

#COOLWELL | #LADRADA | #JULY2 | #GCCEC

This Card is Taking on Legendary Status

Fresh off an incredible performance Dana Coolwell immediately heads back to the canvas to face off with Filipino Lorenz Ladrada (11-2-1) July 2nd on the Opetaia v Briedis IBF World Cruiserweight Title undercard - Utterly Unmissable Boxing

Coolwell will be looking to stomp any fire out quickly after a close fight last time he graced the canvas. You’ll want tickets to this amazing card - be quick - tickets are running out FAST.

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Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has delivered a stunning endorsement of Sydney fighter George Kambosos jnr ahead of his world title defence against American Devin Haney, declaring: “Nobody could have done what George has done.”

Kambosos, 28, will attempt to become the first boxer to hold all four belts in the lightweight division when he fights Haney at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on June 5.

George Kambosos Jr has pledged to send American boxer Devin Haney home with no spoils from their epic bout

There is mounting speculation that Pacquiao, who did more than 250 rounds of sparring with Kambosos during his career, will be among the 50,000-strong crowd for the fight.

In a rare interview, the 12-time world champion told the Good Weekend Kambosos looked incredibly sharp in preparation and will win world titles for as long as he wants.

“I look at the training videos he has been posting on his various social platforms and I’m amazed at what he’s doing in the gym,” Pacquiao said. “No-one is in better condition. You can tell he wants to keep those belts for as long as possible.

“It’s been a long journey for George, and he has sacrificed a lot to get to the top — I do not see him letting that go. How many world titles can he win? He’s only limited by his imagination and his ambition. So far, George has accomplished everything he has set his mind to.”

The relationship between Pacquiao and Kambosos first blossomed when the little-known fighter from Sylvania was sparring at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles in early 2017.

Roach thought he would be an ideal sparring partner for Pacquiao for his fight against Brisbane schoolteacher Jeff Horn at Suncorp Stadium; a fight Horn won in a stunning upset.

Kambosos helped Pacquiao prepare for two more world title fights, including training camps in Manila and running the hills around General Santos, where Pacquiao grew up on the street before boxing became his salvation.

“From the beginning I knew, and my team knew, George was a very good fighter,” Pacquiao explained. “That is why I wanted George in all my training camps. It went beyond giving me good work. He made me work. He was a sparring partner in name only. You could sense he had big ambitions in boxing. He wanted to be the best and he treated his sparring sessions with me as part of his education. I never saw the same fighter twice. He was more than a sparring partner. He was a training partner.”

Often, on long road runs, Kambosos and Pacquiao would draw away from the rest of the pack.

“George worked harder than anyone in the camp,” Pacquiao said. “I think that is why we got along so well. He would be right there with me running the hills every morning, doing sit-ups next to me after the run, full workouts in the gym every afternoon. He was always doing the extra work. He never cut corners on himself, and it was that work ethic that showed me he had the drive to do what so few in boxing can, and that is to become a world champion.”

It was that single-mindedness that propelled Kambosos to his own upset victory over Teofimo Lopez in New York last November, a result which delivered him the IBF, WBA and WBO world titles. Haney holds the WBC title.

As Kambosos explains to the Good Weekend on Saturday, he was prepared “to die” in the ring against Lopez given how much was on the line for his family and his career. Instead, the 13-1 underdog won via a split points decision.

"The fight he took to Teofimo Lopez … I do not think anyone else could have done what George did that night,” Pacquiao said. “He showed in the Lopez fight that not only can he give out punishment, but he can also take it, and that comes from working hard every day in training and staying fit in between fights. George has so many strengths, physically and mentally. He is not predictable. He sees the whole ring and uses it to his advantage. He keeps everything together. He is very disciplined.”

Despite holding three world title belts, and the victory over Lopez, Kambosos remains a clear outsider ($2.51) with bookmakers against Haney ($1.56). Kambosos said he was determined to make sure his first title defence in Australia was against a quality opponent.

“I could’ve fought a no-name,” Kambosos said. “Made $3 million to $4 million. Look at me, my first big defence in Australia lasts two rounds. Sorry fans … I can’t do that. I’m the top dog in the division but the underdog in this fight. It’s exactly where I want to be.”

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

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

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

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

Double Trouble!

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SEA Games silver medallist and Victory8 World Team member Gretel De Paz will make her return to the ring in Brisbane next month.

De Paz will take on rising Aussie star Taylah Robertson, who is a former esteemed amateur. The clash represents a rise in weight class for the Philippines fighter, but she definitely possesses the heavier hands, and she is likely to give Robertson plenty to contend with.

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The Suarez team spotted earlier today, plotting and planning the year ahead.

Charly Suarez went to 10 and 0 and top seventy in the world, when he recently captured the WBA Asia title in Manila.

The King's Warrior was to defend that title in Dubai this June, only to have the match postponed, in part, due to boxers trying to avoid the Philippines star!

OK plans change!

Suarez team stay busy, so he will have a regular bout in June, and follow that up with a title defense locally or abroad 6 weeks later.

VSP Promotions will stage an iconic event in Vietnam in December,  and plans are already in place to secure Suarez a world rated opponent for the HCMC outdoor show. It is expected that many thousands of people will watch the King's Warrior, and some other pinoy stars, fight at the extravaganza.

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DOMINATION UKC is already underway, with many of Manila's best amateurs doing their thing before the professional card later today.

Ranny Quizo and the Wolverine JonJon Estrada are big fight fans when they aren't in the ring themselves, and arrived early to get a good seat.

If you are in Manila, make sure to get down to the Elorde Flash Grand Ballroom in Paranaque and catch all the action live. It will be a great day.

We will also stream the fights here later today.

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Two of the very best and most experienced fighters in the Philippines will be featuring at Domination UKC tomorrow.

Richard Pumicpic resumes from a short lay off, after an accidental head clash forced his most recent foray to be deemed a "no contest ". The man known as "the Beast "has already notched up an incredible 22 wins, many of those against top class international boxers. Pumicpic, it's also accurate to say, is probably the Philippines most "robbed" fighter on the road!

Edison Berwela has been out of the ring since early 2020, so it's great to see this top performer finally back in action.

Berwela has an excellent record of 18 wins, and his recent defeats were all narrow points losses for international belts. The best of Edison Berwela will be seen perhaps now at featherweight, so both he and Pumicpic will be using tomorrow's lightweight 4 round clash as a stepping stone to their respective divisions.

Expect to see some really skillful work (albeit a little rusty!) from Richard Pumicpic and Edison Berwela in Paranaque City tomorrow. Both boys are main event fighters when at their peak, so it's fantastic to see them doing their thing tomorrow.

DOMINATION Ultimate Knockout Challenge

Elorde Flash Grand Ballroom

Paranaque City, Manila

Saturday May 14th

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

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