Great start of 2022 with double WBA Asia Championship title matches! Charly Suarez and Carl James Martin competes in Super Featherweight and Super Bantamweight respectively.
Elorde Sports Complex
,
March 12, 2022
YES Linn Sandstrom and Arnel Baconaje LOOK LIKE MODELS, but they are actually FIGHTERS !
They will be competing tomorrow in Paranaque at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Weigh in and press conference today.
Omega coach Julius Erving Junco with pride of Cebu and main event fighter Tomjune Mangubat.
The super talented Mangubat is fighting the hottest property in Philippines boxing, the former Olympian and unbeaten pro, Charly Suarez.
So clinical has the King's Warrior been since leaving the amateurs, he is yet to lose a round in 9 fights (6 KO)
Mangubat has built an impressive resume of his own, racking up 15 wins against some quality opponents. Three of his last 4 fights have been wicked and thunderous stoppages!
The clash of these two super fighters promises to be a thriller.
"We are always up for the biggest challenges. We can't wait to perform. Let's go champ! We will rock your show!" enthused a supremely confident and proud Coach Julius.
This will be a fight to tell your grand kids about!
Do not miss it for anything.
Make no mistake, Tomjune Mangubat is perhaps the hottest prospect in the country right now, and at the age of just 24, is already planning the downfall of the best fighter in the Philippines.
JUST WOW !
TOMJUNE MANGUBAT v CHARLY SUAREZ
WBA Asia Super Featherweight title
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
Cagayan de Oro fighter Aisah "D'Striker" Alico has arrived in Manila, and is looking forward to her clash with Australia's Linn Sandstrom this Saturday.
Alico, who has 7 career wins (5KO), hasn't fought since March 2019, but has shared the ring previously with world class opponents. In contrast, Linn Sandstrom with 2 wins, is way less experienced, but has the advantage of being more recently active. The boxer known as "Sandstorm" had a solid victory in Brisbane last Thursday night at the No Limits Boxing show in Australia.
On arrival in Manila, the Mindanao girl said "It's HOT!" and headed straight to the pool for a cool down. Few could blame her, and for sure, expect things to get heated in her match this Saturday.
AISAH ALICO v LINN SANDSTROM
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
GREAT FIGHTERS MAKE GREAT FIGHTS!
Richard Pumicpic ranks as one of the Philippines' best ever boxers, and he will be competing this Saturday at the Flash Grand Ballroom in Paranaque .
If you can get there, don't miss the chance to see "the Beast " doing what he does best! 15 iconic bouts!
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
HONORARY PINAY !
Swedish boxer Linn Sandstrom flanked by boxers and crew at Elorde Southbox in Manila today.
Linn will be fighting in the opening event this Saturday.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque,Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Australia's Linn Sandstrom has touched down in Manila, and headed straight to the Elorde Southbox gym first thing this morning to shake off the jet lag !
Swedish born Sandstrom, who only recently turned pro, scored her second win on Thursday night at the big No Limits Boxing event in Brisbane.
Sandstrom has an unusual back story, having formerly being a high level table tennis player in Sweden, before discovering her true passion for boxing once she arrived in Australia. A relatively late comer to the sport, Linn is on a fast track to learn the game, and her plan is, stay as busy as possible !
Linn Sandstrom will fight CDO girl Aisah Alico in the opening fight at TIGER 2O22 on Saturday. Alico has recorded 7 wins (5 KO), but may have to contend with ring rust having not competed since 2019.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Charly Suarez getting the business done in only his 4th career fight against General Santos City boxer Dave Barlas.
The King's Warrior Suarez lines up for his tenth straight win when he meets Cebu sensation Tomjune Mangubat this coming Saturday.
Suarez (9-0) and Mangubat (15-2) will contest the WBA Asia super featherweight title.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Jino Rodrigo and Remon Basas chillin' and getting a tan now the hard work's been done !
These Olivetti trained boxers have big fights coming at TIGER 2O22 next Saturday.
Jino rematches the highly experienced Roberto Gonzales, and based on their very close first fight, expect fireworks !
Bad Bad Basas is a super strong and improving type, and he takes on a more experienced and skilled Jason Buenaobra. Both these guys did great with a common opponent in Lorenz Ladrada, so their clash should prove one of the more interesting matches of the big 15 fight card.
Find out the latest about ALL your favorite boxers competing at the TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge next Saturday in Paranaque Manila.
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
One of the Philippines' best ever will be starring in Manila next week alongside a group of outstandingly talented fighters.
If you have never been fortunate enough to see "the Beast" do his thing live and in person, don't miss the opportunity to get to the Flash Elorde ballroom next Saturday.
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:
Ben "the Sniper" Ligas suits up for his Philippines Flyweight title defense next Saturday in Paranaque.
Not only a boxer of high potential, Ligas doubles as a pretty useful model for the latest sports wear from the team at BE ATHLETIC !
The Sniper will defend his belt as one of the main undercard bouts to the huge Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat WBA Asia clash.
TIGER 2O22 will play host to a mammoth 15 killer bouts, and many of the champion fighters will be dressed by BE ATHLETIC !
Lots of thanks to Raoul Navarrete and his hard working team for making these stars look their best.
Ben "the Juicer" Mcculloch was one of the best boxers Australia has ever produced, winning 14 straight and getting to world rank #3 as a super middleweight. His signature was his beautiful balance, distance and rotational power, often producing decapitation style knockouts. And it always looked so effortless!
Arnel Baconaje is as close as we've seen to the Aussie star, and he is a standout as one of the Philippines best and most technical operators. The Iloilo fighter shows really good patience in setting his shots, makes good angles, and dispenses the pain with plenty of high and low variety. His defensive base is solid, and he simply never gives cheap shots away to opponents.
Says McCulloch : "I love this guy, especially when I've seen him work with Suarez and Pumicpic. He has the really nice distance and jab, and has that nice Bernard Hopkins /James Toney roll that I used to love when I fought. But you know what, I can see a lot of Canelo in JUICER2, he really is QUALITY !"
Juicer2, also known as "the Silencer ",will be appearing next week at TIGER 2O22 in Manila. Tune in, and judge for yourself ! He is a special fighter.
ARNEL BACONAJE v LEONARDO DORONIO TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Can the face of violent imposition look so impossibly handsome?
Jonjon Estrada plans to answer that question with an exclamation mark, when he takes on the hugely talented Jess Rhey Waminal, at TIGER 2O22 on Saturday March 12th.
Both fighters sit on 14 wins, both fighters are similarly ranked, but their modus operandi couldn't be any more different, and this makes it compelling viewing.
Mindanao boxer Waminal was a quality amateur, and he shows those beautiful technical touches as a pro.
The Wolverine has gained cult status because of his very neanderthal approach, he stalks his prey with a low and crouching style, and carries knockout power in both hands. He has morphed into one of the most feared boxers in the Philippines, courtesy of his 13 "put your lights out" stoppage victories.
BUT DON'T BE DECEIVED BY THE SMILE !
DOES "VIOLENCE" HAVE A FACE ?
JONJON ESTRADA v JESS RHEY WAMINAL
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The Tigers are out!
Four of the outstanding boxers on show at next week's TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Lorence Rosas, Malfred Majadas, Giovanni Escaner and Jason Buenaobra are four high skilled technicians, all with very differing styles, but all confident they are armed and ready to put on a show in Paranaque.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Australia's Linn Sandstrom made weight easily for tomorrow night's clash in Brisbane against Ali Jensen.
The boxer known as "Sandstorm" has a busy schedule ahead, appearing again at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday March 12th.
Linn takes on CDO girl Aisah Alico, a winner of 7 fights, but she is resuming from a two year break from the sport.
This will no doubt be a challenging bout for both girls, and it will be great to finally see women's boxing making a welcome return to Manila.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The King's Warrior, when asked today how he is feeling leading up to his mega fight with Tomjune Mangubat for the WBA Asia title on Saturday March 12th :
"Happy Happy Great training result and a positive outcome. I can't wait !"
A picture speaks a THOUSAND words !!
One of the Philippines' best ever comes out to play at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday March 12th.
Richard "the Beast " Pumicpic has fought some of the world's best boxers in recent years, and he also has a victory over Philippines #1 Joe Noynay on his very impressive resume.
The ever popular boxer is matched with tall timber Pablito Canada over 6 rounds, and this should prove to be a great opportunity to see the Beast ply his trade once more!
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Charly Suarez took on the unbeaten Justin Cabarles in his second professional bout. Cabarles was a tall unbeaten orthodox with lots of skills and potential.
In his previous fight, Cabarles won against another unbeaten prospect by the name of Jhunrick Carcedo. The merit of that Cabarles victory was obvious, as Carcedo won his subsequent four fights by KO, and is now the #2 ranked super lightweight in the Philippines.
Enjoy the round two action of Suarez in his second pro fight, against a very game Justin Cabarles.
Suarez is now 9 and 0 as a professional, and fights Tomjune Mangubat for the WBA Asia title in Paranaque on Saturday March 12th.
Jino "the Silent Beast " Rodrigo brooding, even with a subdued and menacing visage - this is the quiet time, akin to the calm before the storm.
But be sure, the Beast will soon be unleashed from within, the Wild Man will unveil in Paranaque on March 12th!
JINO RODRIGO v ROBERTO GONZALES TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Philippines national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas will be defending his title at TIGER 2O22 this March.
And if he doesn't win, who really cares, because he will be
WALKING TALL, LOOKING GOOD ! in this great design from the hard working team at
BE ATHLETIC.
Thanks to Raoul Navarrete and Be Athletic for supporting Philippines sports and Boxing.
Remember if you wanna look like a champ, Be Athletic will take care of you!
The boxers competing at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge not only are super talented, they really look the part!
This is because of the cool and creative efforts of Raoul Navarrete and his team at Be Athletic, who look after not only the best athletes in the Philippines and abroad, they make these designs available to the fan market also.
Charly Suarez is out to make a statement on March 12th that he is the Philippines #1 fighter in any division, and he says he loves the Be Athletic gear.
We will show you the designs that some of the boxers have had customized in the coming days - they are amazing !
Even visiting boxer Linn Sandstrom (Australia ) was so impressed, she has had her outfit made by Be Athletic.
So get with the program, if you wanna BE ATHLETIC, (and look great) contact them for all your fight and Activewear needs.
Thanks Raoul Navarrete and Be Athletic !
Two weeks out and the Philippines national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas is raring to go!"The Sniper" has trained well in preparation for his title defense, and in spite of losing two challengers along the way, has a battle on his hands with the very resilient Roland Jay Biendima.BEN LIGAS v ROLAND JAY BIENDIMARP Flyweight titleTIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, ManilaSaturday March 12thWATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Albert “the Ageless” Alcoy has earned the reputation as a journeyman in the true essence of the word, and makes his way to TIGER 2022 to take on the outstanding Giovanni Escaner.Whilst Escaner is resuming from a hiatus dating back to 2019, the experienced Alcoy managed to get a bout in October 2021, where he lost on points to the high level Jonathon Taconing. The 38 year old Alcoy has an array of top names on his reume, and his previous win was a decisive knockout victory over the cunning southpaw Danny Tampipi, who also appears on this fight card. This orthodox fighter has competed consistently for over 16 years, and is still going strong!! Alcoy, who is now based in Makati City, and has spent recent years both competing and training others in boxing and mixed combat. And true to his “no task too big” edict, we will see “the Ageless” return to his love for the sport of boxing when he meets Giovanni Escaner on March 12th.ALBERT ALCOY v GIOVANNI ESCANERTIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout ChallengeParanaque, Manila Saturday March 12thWATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The King's Warrior Charly Suarez has heard all the talk, and he just smiles, and says it will soon be time to walk the walk!
Suarez has been told of the noise coming out of Cebu - that he is better suited to the amateurs, that he doesn't have the power to be a top class pro, that he will be on his bike against Mangubat, and that he won't last 12 rounds, blah blah blah.
Omega Cebu team is supremely confident to take Suarez into very deep waters and drown him, to which the champion replies :
"Yes the deep waters can be dangerous, so please Mangubat team, make sure you are good swimmers! The WBA belt is mine, but if you want it, sure, come swimming in the dark waters and take it from me bro!"
And yes, as usual, Charly says it all with a smile!
CHARLY SUAREZ v TOMJUNE MANGUBAT WBA ASIA TITLE
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque ,Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The “Little Giant” makes his long awaited return at TIGER 2022, matching up with the experienced veteran Albert Alcoy. The bout marks a ring absence of more than 2.5 years for the locally based star, when he defeated the outstanding Renoel Pael in a thriller.
The win over Pael, a winner of 23 fights, highlighted the level that Escaner had worked to in his professional career. It also put him back on the winners’ list, after a previous loss to top American Joshua Greer ended in a dramatic stoppage loss. That blip punctuated a 10 match winning streak for the “Little Giant”.
The fight between top US prospect Joshua Greer and Giovanni Escaner must surely have been one of the most THRILLING in 2019. Greer appeared to be sailing towards a world title. With only one loss on his resume, to the unbeaten Stephen Fulton, Greer was expected to make a statement in the Escaner fight. But things didn’t go to plan for the high flying American. Escaner dropped Greer in the third round, and it really looked as if he was going to be finished off by the Little Giant. To his credit, Greer regained his senses, and in a to and fro round, managed to stop Escaner in round 8. The action was frenetic, and it seemed obvious that the Philippines fighter perhaps only got caught in his effort to drop the American for a second time. To illustrate the closeness of the bout, the judges had scores of 67-66 and 67-65 when the referee called a halt.
Giovanni Escaner has been sparring in Manila in preparation for March 12th, and if the rumours are correct, he will show no signs of ring rust upon his return. He has been working with quality opponents, including Carl Jammes Martin, who can confidently testify to the fact “The Little Giant is back!!!”
They say Suarez is "running" on old legs!
Tomjune Mangubat is prepared to take the former amateur star 12 rounds if he has to, but confidently predicts :
THIS FIGHT WILL NOT GO THE DISTANCE !
TOMJUNE MANGUBAT v CHARLY SUAREZ
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
WBA ASIA TITLE
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Outstanding young prospects Tomjune Mangubat and Carlo Bacaro are promising to storm the fortress of Manila and take home all the spoils of victory. They say by the time they are done - there will be nothing left, especially for SEA Games hero Charly "King's Warrior " Suarez !
The Cebu based pair are trained at Omega Gym, and are under the expert tutelage of head coach Julius Erving Junco. Word on the street is that they have been training the house down, and are confident to make headlines at TIGER 2O22 next month in Paranaque.
Tomjune Mangubat has not only an imposing physique, he boasts a resume to match!.
He takes on the Philippines' best boxer Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title, and the mood in camp is that the former Olympian's reputation will count for nothing once the opening bell sounds. The Omega team are on track for a devastating victory, feeling Suarez lacks the power and legs to go to war for 12 rounds. They also are strongly committed to chasing the knockout if the former amateur champ shows any sign of weakness. And with three imposing stoppages in his most recent bouts, the confidence of Team Mangubat looks well founded.
Carlo Bacaro is definitely one of the hottest prospects in the country, and all eyes will be on this unbeaten young star when he takes on the ultra experienced Jimmy Borbon.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Perhaps the most intriguing of the early bouts at TIGER 2022, is the matchup between Jonathon Almacen and the long absent John Paul Bentoso. The bout takes place at junior flyweight, and whilst it poses many unknowns, none is more baffling than "where the hell has John Paul Bentoso been since 2017?? "
Well, it appears that he has now been found, and Jonathon Almacen will be probing for answers!
Jonathon Almacen is an excellent young prospect, born and bred in Manila. This 22 year old orthodox debuted in 2016, where he had an unfortunate technical draw with an excellent emerging boxer named Enrique Magsalin. The trend for quality opponents was repeated, and the improving Alamcen won his next four fights before narrow losses to unbeaten pinoys Jayson Vayson and ArAr Andales. In spite of the losses, Almacen was showing lots of upside, and he quickly regrouped to win the WBC silver title in China over the highly rated Xiang Le. This popular boxer was doing it in style, and earned the moniker “Pretty Boy” (or maybe it was his looks????) His most recent win in 2019 was perhaps his best so far, when he literally shutout Roldan Sasan, a boxer that had only been previously beaten once in 10 fights.
“Pretty Boy” Almacen resumes as a very young fighter on the up and up. This boxer has already amassed 7 wins, he has fast hands, good skills, and shows plenty of variety in his opening attacks. He has been sparring quality partners in preparation for TIGER 2022, so it’s accurate to say that he is a “known” quantity.
But what of his opponent John Paul Bentoso, and how do we make any prediction on this bout????
John Paul Bentoso has been on the missing persons list since 2017!
“The Ghost” Bentoso showed huge potential from the time he was a kid. A regular fixture at national youth championships, Bentoso routinely figured in the medals. In 2014, he won the national championship, defeating the outstanding boxer Robert Paradero, who has subsequently racked up 18 wins as a professional. In 2016, Bentoso was ousted in the semi finals by the barest of margins, falling to a split decision at the hands of another future star named Carlo Paalam.
So “the Ghost” turns pro in 2017, and he looks born to the game! The fast handed southpaw fighter wins 3 bouts in quick succession, all of them by lethal stoppage. His most recent outing was in September of 2017, where he was responsible for a violent beat down of Bonjun Loperez, a far more experienced pro boasting 10 wins. The experience counted for zilch, and it was all over in round two.
And that was it, John Paul Bentos disappeared off the face of the planet, thus becoming “the Ghost”, but in no way diminishing his reputation or aura.
The great news is that Bentoso is back, yet none of us are any the wiser as to what version we will see on March 12th against Jonathon Almacen, who no doubt, will get to the bottom of that mystery!
JONATHON ALMACEN v JOHN PAUL BENTOSO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Arnel Baconaje and team working out this morning at Elorde Southbox, in preparation for TIGER 2O22 coming to Manila on Saturday March 12th.
Be ready!
Doesn't get any bigger locally than this!
Philippines best versus Philippines best up and coming - three times SEA Games gold medal winner Charly Suarez takes on the giant killing Tomjune Mangubat of Omega Cebu.
CHARLY SUAREZ v TOMJUNE MANGUBAT WBA ASIA TITLE
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Mindanao's Jetro Pabustan will kick start his 2023 campaign with a Manila bout on January 30.
The Silent Operator has made no secret of his ambitions to work toward a title fight again, and is working hard to get the year started on the right foot.
Jetro Pabustan recently competed in Vietnam against local cult boxer Le Hoang Hiep, so is sure to embrace the new year in career best shape.
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!
Many great performances from Vietnam fighters before the pandemic, and now things are returning to normal again, who will be the shining lights in 2023 ?
Study the styles and performances of many of Vietnam's best boxers at the VSP Promotions You Tube site :
Charly Suarez has had a busy 2 years since turning professional.
Check this out :
14 fights
14 wins
WBA Asia title
RP National title
IBF Asia title
And we aren't slowing down in 2023 !
Expect to see the King's Warrior back in the ring and doing what he does best this coming March.
Charly Suarez wins the IBF Asia belt over Indonesia #1 and former WBC regional champion Defry Palulu :
JonJon Estrada is set for a January 30 return to the ring, after a dominant performance in Vietnam earlier this month.
News on an opponent and January fight card coming soon.
THE NEW IBF ASIA CHAMPION CHARLY SUAREZ
Another torrid test for Vietnam Lightweight champion Quân, who had to dig deep after having issues making weight.
Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje provided constant pressure with his accuracy and power shots, which were definitely not accurately reflected on the scorecards.
The King's Warrior now owns both IBF and WBA Asia titles with this superb performance against Indonesia’s Defry Palulu.
This was shaping to be a rugged clash, unfortunately cut short due to an eye injury caused by a Suarez right hand in the second round.
That's Boxing - but still a great result for the Philippines and Team Suarez.
VSP Promotions are looking towards doing many more events next year after the recent success of "Fortunes of War".
VSP Boxing will host 10 events in 2023 for local Vietnam boxers who are wanting to join the pro ranks. These will kick off in February.
We will also be doing 3 big international shows bring top foreign boxers into Vietnam - the first of these being scheduled for March.
And Victory8 will be back !
Think Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi and 25,000 people!
More updates on a massive 2O23 coming soon !
Former HCMC youth champ jumps to the big stage and takes on the might of 3x OPBF winner Mark John Yap.
Super entertaining bout that was unfortunately stopped early due to a head cut to the Philippines star.
Charly Suarez is rapidly running out of opposition on his way to a world title.
This guy from Japan is useful, he is in the region, and ranked #9 in the world.
So c'mon Japan, stop hiding, let's get this done in March - Suarez should be easy for you !!!
Hanoi Hitman takes on unbeaten Indonesian prospect Paisal "Geronimo" Panjaitan.
Both fighters were looking for the KNOCKOUT !
Crazy Junior King Kong aka Young Blood and former Russian gang member Le Hoang Hiep jumps two weight classes and meets Philippines' Jetro Pabustan in centre ring.
Pabustan is a winner of 31 fights and previously contested a WBO World Title.
Opening bout action between the merciless Wolverine JonJon Estrada and Muay Thai champ "Nak Su" Thai Hoang Huy.
Estrada brings his trademark violence to Vietnam!
Philippines Mark John Yap received a solid workout at Fortunes of War, a great bout unfortunately cut short in round 3 due to accidental head clash.
Yap and Vietnam opponent Phan Minh Quân both enjoyed good moments early on, with the pinoy star getting a cut above the right eye very late in round one.
The Philippines boxer got the best of the second round, and the fighters followed that with toe to toe action, only to be halted by the ring doctor shortly after.
This was a great display by former HCMC youth boxer Quân, who clearly relished the challenge of fighting an established star like Mark John Yap.
You can watch the full fight here :
JonJon Estrada enjoys the flowers and trophy moments after experiencing his first time victory in Vietnam. The Wolverine debuted in the only way he knows how - with a stoppage win, over local Muay Thai fighter Thai Hoang Huy. Estrada appeared very relaxed in the opening round, yet dropped his Vietnam opponent with a two punch combo. He then closed the show in the 4th round with Thai Hoang Huy unable to answer the Wolverine's beserk attack while pinned to the ropes.
Hanoi strong man Nguyễn Văn Hải made an impressive return to the professional arena, stunning unbeaten Indonesian Paisal Panjaitan with a stoppage victory.
The bout began quite evenly, with the visitor boxing carefully, and even dictating ring position, but then BOOM!
The Indonesian fighter began to launch heavy shots at Nguyễn Văn Hải, and found himself side on to his Vietnam nemesis. Quick to sieze the moment, Hải unleashed a perfect left hook to surprise the chin of Panjaitan.
It was a superb performance from Nguyễn Văn Hải against a confident and unbeaten opponent. His distance and timing were a big improvement on his loss in Manila, which was also against an unbeaten prospect named Jerald Into.
The Hanoi champion advances to 3 wins and 1 loss, and appears a potential professional star for Vietnam boxing.
FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS
All the action from 7 great bouts at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino :
Last night in Vietnam, Philippine Army enlisted personnel Charly Suarez won the IBF Asia title with an impressive but unfortunate victory.
The King's Warrior boxed just two rounds with Indonesia’s champion Defry Palulu and undoubtedly looked all class and set the scene for a spectacular battle.
Unfortunately, in the second round, southpaw Palulu suffered some eye damage that required the ring doctor to stop the fight.
Charly Suarez is now confirmed ruler of Asia, owning both the WBA and IBF belts.
Before joining the Army's regular duty in July 2022, Private Suarez was a reserve Staff Sergeant, as may be remembered.
Private Suarez was named WBA Asia's Boxer of the Month for March 2022. Suarez competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics in Brazil and won gold medals in various boxing events at the Southeast Asian Games in 2009, 2011, 2019, and 2022.
His coach is army reservist 1st Lieutenant Delfin Boholst.
Setting up now for tonight's Fortunes of War show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vietnam.
We start:
5.30 First fight at 6pm (Vietnam)
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!!!
Paisal Panjaitan and Defry Palulu send out dire warnings poolside at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino today.
"TONIGHT, I SMASH YOUR BOYS !"
was the echo heard loud and clear at a fight day interview session with Aussie fight caller Ben Mcculloch.
Panjaitan will battle Vietnam fight legend Nguyễn Văn Hải, whilst former WBC belt holder Defry Palulu takes in the Philippines Charly Suarez for the IBF Asia title.
Main event boys Dinh Hong Quân and Arnel Baconaje ready to tear up the Ho Tram Strip.
Philippines Baconaje has vowed to return home with the IBF Asia title.
We are sure Vietnam's champ has other ideas !
CEO of The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, Mr. Walt Power, talks to Vietnam media about the Fortunes of War event to be held tomorrow night at his hotel.
Defry Palulu 58.9kg (Indonesia)
Charly Suarez 58.7kg (Philippines)
Arnel Baconaje 61.2kg (Philippines)
Vietnam's Dinh Hong Quân weighed in heavy at 62.6kg, so is unable to defend the IBF Asia belt.
The match will still prove to be a significant task for Baconaje, who must defeat Quân if he wants to be crowned champion.
Three of the Vietnam killers at tomorrow night's big Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
Nguyễn Văn Hải, Dinh Hong Quân and Thai Hoang Huy (pictured) will be joined by Phan Minh Quân and Le Hoàng Hiệp to form a great Vietnam team at today's weigh in and media day.
Paisal Panjaitan 61.0kg (Indonesia)
Nguyễn Văn Hải 61.2kg (Vietnam)
Phan Minh Quân 58.9kg (Vietnam)
Mark John Yap 59.2kg (Philippines)
Le Hoang Hiep 53.8kg (Vietnam)
Jetro Pabustan 55.2kg (Philippines)
OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
Thai Hoang Huy 57.2kg (Vietnam)
JonJon Estrada 56.9kg (Philippines)
Jetro Pabustan, JonJon Estrada and Mark John Yap looking impossibly handsome and ready for Fortunes of War this morning in Ho Tram.
GIRLS - TAKE A TICKET AND WAIT YOUR TURN !
Vietnam Tiger Thai Hoang Huy meets his hero "The Wolverine" Jonjon Estrada for the first time today.
Vietnam and Philippines are great competitors, and today's friends will be fierce combatants at FORTUNES OF WAR this Saturday at The Grand Ho Tram Resort.
THREE WISE MONKEYS SPEAK NO EVIL
Deeds speak louder than words, and these three killers plan to do their talking in the ring this Saturday night at FORTUNES OF WAR in Ho Tram Vietnam.
Jetro Pabustan, JonJon Estrada and Mark John Yap enjoy a healthy meal and will leave for The Grand Ho Tram later today.
The trio have promised fight fans they will bring all guns loaded and put on a display that fight fans will never forget.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
*story courtesy Vietnam News
In his 12th pro match, IBF Asia lightweight champion Đinh Hồng Quân will face Arnel Baconaje of the Philippines over 12 rounds. It is his second time defending his belt. Last July, he defeated Jules Victoriano of the Philippines unanimously.
HÀ NỘI — A blockbuster "Fortunes of War" boxing event will bring together Asia's best fighters in 12 bouts, including three title matches, sanctioned by the IBF and WBO on December 10 at The Grand Hồ Tràm Strip, Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu Province.
In his 12th pro match, IBF Asia lightweight champion Đinh Hồng Quân will face Arnel Baconaje of the Philippines over 12 rounds. It is his second time defending his belt. Last July, he defeated Jules Victoriano of the Philippines unanimously.
The rising Vietnamese star does have a size advantage. Quân has recorded nine wins (4KOs), one draw and one loss (KO).
At 24, 'Black Eagle' Quân is younger than his rival and stands at No 189 in the world, 43 places higher than Baconaje.
However, 'The Silencer' Baconaje has bowled over some of the Philippines' biggest and best stars. Of his 15 wins, 11 came by knockout. The 29-year-old has suffered five losses, three by knockout.
Baconaje has thoroughly prepared by training with the famous fighter "Japanese monster" Naoya Inoue.
Quân completed a training camp in South Korea before having an intensive training camp with legendary Manny Pacquiao in the Philippines.
"I feel in way better shape, my camp has been good, and being able to train with a legend like Manny Pacquiao has helped me a lot," said Quân.
"He is a model of hard work to succeed in boxing, as well as an example of rising up in boxing. Professionally, I learn, practise and improve my abilities to prepare well for the upcoming matches. I won't let people down."
Quân said that Pacquiao advised him a lot. In particular, the most memorable is the practice motto "fight hard, complete the exercises and always have faith".
"Everybody will see a far better Đinh Hồng Quân this time, and I already know I will beat Arnel Baconaje. I am excited about it. I am very happy to have the challenge of stopping a top fighter like Baconaje in front of my home country," he said.
The second title match is between IBF Asia super-featherweight Charly Suarez of the Philippines and Indonesian Defry Palulu in a 12-round bout.
Their match was scheduled in March 2020 but was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Suarez is a three-time SEA Games champion who won the 2014 Asian Games silver. He turned pro in 2019 and impressed the community with 13 wins with seven KOs.
Suarez has stayed busy this year as he fought for the WBA Asia title in March and defended it twice in July and October. He also won the Philippines national title in the process.
Palulu is currently No 1 in his country. He places 162 in the world with a record of 25 wins, two draws and two losses. He took the IBO Asia Pacific and WBC Asian Boxing Council super-featherweight belts in 2019.
"The Unseen Hammer" is in career-best shape and has been working on angles and power shots to halt the meteoric rise of Suarez.
"That is our plan. Team Palulu have worked very hard for this, and we will not let this opportunity slip," he said on vsppromotions.com.
"Suarez does not have the power to hurt me, or even hold me off. But I know when I catch him, he will go down. Indonesia will have a new champion on December 10."
The third title match is between South Korean Song Chan Ho and Thai Anusong Thonglueang, who will defend his WBO Oriental Youth super-lightweight belt across 10 rounds.
Song, 19, unbeaten in eight fights, is certainly living up to his "Purge Boy" ring name.
He is fast and has a high work rate, nice footwork, and works some clever angles. He is durable and is developing some power to go with his accurate hands.
Tàu City.
Thonglueang, 18, has already created media attention in Thailand, where he has put together 12 wins (9KOs) with only one loss in extra quick time. He is a dynamic all-action fighter and knows how to be effective inside the ropes.
Other matches with Vietnamese fighters are between Nguyễn Văn Hải vs Paisal Panjaitan of Indonesia in the lightweight class in four rounds; Phạm Minh Quân vs Mark John Yap of the Philippines in the super-featherweight in four rounds; Lê Hoàng Hiệp vs Jetro Pabustan of the Philippines in the super-bantamweight in four rounds and Thái Hoàng Huy vs JonJon Estrada of the Philippines in the featherweight in four rounds.
Fortunes of War is organised by Việt Nam's top boxing units of VSP Promotions and Cocky Buffalo with support from Vietcontent, the leading sports content in Việt Nam. VNS
Attitude and personality goes a long way, and Vietnam young gun Le Hoang Hiep has these attributes and much, much more !
The audacious Hiep will jump 3 weight classes this Saturday and tackle Philippines Jetro Pabustan head on.
Anyone who knows the character of Vietnamese people, knows that they love to be challenged, and this Saturday, Hiep gets to go and try 4 rounds in the lion's cage with the Silent Operator !
Young Blood will very definitely need to bring his very best KING KONG to the ring at Fortunes of War.
NEWS FROM WEBTHETHAO
Professional boxing events in Vietnam began to rekindle in the period of 2015, when management units such as Vietnam Boxing Federation (VBF) or Ho Chi Minh City Boxing Federation. Ho Chi Minh City (HBF) organizes this form of competition, with the participation of famous boxers in the domestic amateur boxing village. After that, promotion companies began to appear with names like VSP Promotions, Cocky Buffalo, Saigon Sports Club, VBC, Trigger Boxing... continued to appear to bring more national elements. economic: events, title matches, friendlies.
However, it was not until 2018, when the promoters really embarked on a comprehensive approach, at this time, the challenge for the development of professional boxing began to really appear.
To be recognized at the professional level, competitions must be under the supervision of organizations capable of recognizing professional achievements around the world. This supervision is based on the rules - the rules of the game (regulations) are specified in the operating regulations of professional organizations such as WBC, WBO, WBA, IBF...
In Vietnam, the presence of these organizations is not much. Therefore, boxers have only one option: to conduct tours in countries with developed boxing backgrounds such as Thailand, the Philippines, Japan, Korea, ... to be recognized for their achievements. However, the issue of funding, training procedures - competing with Vietnamese boxers is not a simple problem, despite the participation of experienced promotion companies in the region.
As a result, promoters have opted for a more pragmatic approach: organizing events right in Vietnam. To do this, they need to contact to get the approval of professional organizations in the world, through sending professional teams, supervising the organization and competition of martial arts.
Since 2019, units like VSP Promotions have made their mark with a series of events such as Victory 8, VSP Pro,... bringing Vietnamese boxers to participate in professional matches at home, recognizing their achievements. in the international system, gradually removing barriers for boxers who want to pursue this path.
From professional events, title fights began to appear. Victory 8: Legend of Hoan Kiem with the title of WBA East Asia; events of IBF, WBO at The Grand Ho Tram Strip with champions Dinh Hong Quan, Song Chan Ho... and here comes Fortunes of War with 3 matches for WBO - IBF title in weight classes on 10th December.
Not only for boxers, bringing international events to Vietnam also creates opportunities for domestic professionals, namely management units, referees, supervisors, etc. exposure to professional environment according to world standards. From there, events in Vietnam will gradually move to international level - something we all want in the development of all sports.
Following the success of two title events in April and July, Fortunes of War witnessed the title defense of the IBF Asian champion - "Black Hawk" Dinh Hong Quan in his 11th fight. The fighter born in 1998 will face the boxer from the Philippines - "Silent Assassin" Arnel Baconaje.
In addition to the defense of the IBF Asian lightweight title between Dinh Hong Quan and Arnel Baconjae, Charly Suarez - a three-time SEA Games gold medalist and silver medalist at ASIAD 2014 will welcome an opponent from Indonesia - Defry Palulu for the IBF title. Asian super-featherweight.
Previously, WBO Oriental champion from Korea - Song Chan Ho will face Thai boxer Anusong Thonglueang in his title defense match. The competition took place over 10 rounds in the super-lightweight division.
In addition to the three matches/defending of the IBF and WBO belts, Fortunes Of War also witnessed the return of Vietnamese boxing monument Nguyen Van Hai, promising fighters Le Hoang Hiep, Thai Hoang Huy or Pham Minh Quan before the competition. boxers from Indonesia and the Philippines.
List of matches at Fortunes of War on December 10:
Dinh Hong Quan (c) vs. Arnel Baconaje - IBF Asian lightweight title defense (12 rounds)
Charly Suarez vs. Defry Paululu - IBF Asian Super-featherweight Championship (12 rounds)
Nguyen Van Hai vs. Paisal Panjaitan - Lightweight (4 rounds)
Phan Minh Quan vs. Mark John Yap - Super-featherweight (4 rounds)
Song Chan Ho vs. Anusong Thonglueang - Defending the WBO Oriental Youth super-lightweight title (10 rounds)
Le Hoang Hiep vs. Jetro Pabustan - Super-bantamweight (4 rounds)
Thai Hoang Huy vs. JonJon Estrada - Featherweight (4 rounds)
Jonjon Estrada was recently ranked #1 in the Philippines for Featherweight division. Listen to his experience and what he thinks about Vietnam and the upcoming fight.
The Wolverine is in stone cold menacing form at today's media day !
JonJon Estrada confirmed at today's interview that there will be no mercy coming for his Vietnam opponent :
"The Wolverine is ready to go BESERK !"
JonJon Estrada v Thai Hoang Huy
4 rounds Featherweight 57kg
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Live from 6pm Vietnam 7pm Philippines
Philippines' Arnel Baconaje "The Silencer" is flexing up at media day at VSP Boxing Gym.
Baconaje will fight Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân for the IBFbelt at The Grand Ho Tram Resort in Vietnam this Saturday.
Fortunes of War promoter Mr. Sang Bum Kim joined by Australia's former world rated champion Ben "the Juicer "Mcculloch and Vietnam royalty Mr. Nguyễn Văn Hải.
All three of these killers will head to The Grand Ho Tram later this week in preparation for the big show.
GET READY FOR WAR !!! YEE-HAHHHHH !!!!
Three IBF and WBO Title fights featuring Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines' best fighters !
Live from The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Mark John Yap (pictured) from the Philippines will take on Vietnam young gun Phan Minh Quân.
Jetro Pabustan, Arnel Baconaje, Aljum Pelesio, Toto Laurente and JonJon Estrada are pictured at VSP Boxing Gym today with Mr. Sang Bum Kim.
Mr. Kim is the owner of Cocky Buffalo Gym and is the head promoter for the Fortunes of War event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort next Saturday.
VIETNAM XMAS IS COMING, AND SO IS CHARLY SUAREZ!
Watch out Vietnam, the King's Warrior is in town and ready yo rumble !
Charly Suarez is in Ho Chi Minh City training at VSP Boxing Gym and will be headed to the beach of Ho Tram this coming Thursday.
The Philippines best boxer will contest his first international match, an IBF Asia contest against Indonesia’s top dog Defry Palulu.
Defry has a superb 25-2 record and is a former WBC Asia champion.
Both fighters are confident of victory.
Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight championship
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Vietnam boxing's "go-to" man DJ Duy is making a comeback to the ring after a long lay off.
The 4 and 0 boxing personality has only got a short preparation time available for his December 17 return, and was fortunate to get some rounds in yesterday with visiting Philippines fighter Aljum Pelesio.
Pelesio is a top prospect based in Parañaque Manila, and has already amassed an 11-2 record against quality opposition.
The sparring took place at VSP Boxing gym in Ho Chi Minh City, where five other Philippines boxers are training for the Fortunes of War event in Ho Tram next Saturday.
Charly Suarez, Arnel Baconaje, JonJon Estrada, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan will feature in bouts at the picturesque beachside venue The Grand Ho Tram on Saturday December 10.
The Philippines team for Fortunes of War arrived at 1am last night and are now sleeping it off !
It is expected that they will head to VSP Boxing Gym later today for a light workout.
Keep you posted with updates.
FORTUNES OF WAR - MEET OUR FIGHTERS
Mark John Yap v Phan Minh Quân - Fight 4
PHAN MINH QUAN Debut
23 yrs old / Orthodox / The Riddler / 170cm / 59kg Super Featherweight
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam / Matrix Boxing HCMC
The Riddler is the most accomplished of three aspiring Vietnam boxers in the exhibition bouts.
That said, he faces the most daunting opponent – 3 times OPBF champion Mark John Yap,
Quan was a youth champion in HCMC, and has continued his boxing training with the hope of becoming a professional competitor later on. He has won at Inter Club level, and he definitely possesses the look of a boxer that can make it to the pros. He is also a good size for a super featherweight, and he still retains some nice amateur touches in his arsenal.
Phan Minh Quan has a real reputation of asking the hard questions of his opponents, and some, well they just seem near impossible to answer.
Hence – The Riddler !
MARK JOHN YAP 31 wins
33 yrs old / Orthodox / The Journey Man / 168cm / 59kg Super Featherweight
Cagayan de Oro, Philippines / VSP Elorde Manila
Mark John Yap is one of the Philippines premier boxers, and arguably one of their best internationally performed in recent times. In the five years prior to the pandemic, Yap literally tore some of Japan’s best fighters to shreds, and picked up three OPBF titles in the process. He has recorded 31 wins as a professional. Amazing considering the caliber of opposition that he has confronted during his incredible career.
This is a vastly experienced boxing star who most recently overcame Papua New Guinea champion Junior Raka in dominating fashion, and will be using this exhibition bout the keep his weapons sharp for a likely bout in Manila in January.
Don’t be surprised to see the Journey Man back in Vietnam in 2023 for a big fight.
Of course, he has to get past Phan Minh Quan first!
The Philippines team head to Vietnam tonight in advance of the mammoth boxing event in Ho Tram next Saturday.
The pinoy squad is very likely the best to ever leave Philippines' shores, and where two of the team's fighters will challenge for IBF titles in the main events.
Assembled tonight at Ninoy Aquino Airport are :
Delfin Boholst (trainer), Thony Suarez (trainer), Charly Suarez, Arnel Baconaje, JonJon Estrada Pederito Laurente (trainer), Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Jetro Pabustan aka the Silent Operator is in killer mode and ready for the Fortunes of War.
Pabustan flies out with the Philippines team tonight, a hot squad that which includes Arnel Baconaje, JonJon Estrada, Charly Suarez and Mark John Yap.
Jetro Pabustan will battle Saigon psychopathic bad boy Le Hoang Hiep aka Young Blood.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải will arrive in HCMC and train with the Philippines team prior to heading to the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram.
Hai will meet the unbeaten Indonesian Paisal Panjaitan in what will definitely be one of the highlight bouts of the night.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
