Elorde Sports Center
,
October 23, 2022
Romeo Tenorio Wins by UD
"The Ferocious" Carlo Magali looking absolutely shredded at the BATTLEFIELD weigh in just moments ago.
National champion Magali takes on the unbeaten freak talent King's Warrior Charly Suarez in a bout which will decide both RP and WBA Asia titles.
Both fighters weighed in within the Super Featherweight limit at 129 pounds.
Action takes place tomorrow at the Elorde Sports Centre in Parañaque.
The Philippines’ Charly Suarez will headline a huge card in Manila this Sunday, when he defends his regional WBA belt agsinst national champion Carlo Magali.
Suarez is without peer in Philippines boxing right now, and arguably sits with Naoya Inoue as the most technically gifted fighter in all of Asia,
The Davao native sits unbeaten at 12 and 0, and such has been his dominance against quality local opposition, he has scored 7 knockouts so far in his pro career.
Carlo Magali will be another solid test for Suarez. A winner of 25 fights, Magali has a very awkward and resilient style that has upset more heavily favoured opponents. Blessed with a great chin and thudding power, the man that has earned the ring name “The Ferocious” is regarded as a killer in his homeland, and in the literal sense.
National champion Magali had an historic battle with Australia’s top 130 Davey Browne a few years back, and such was the bludgeoning that Magali delivered, the unbeaten Aussie lost his life as a result of his injuries.
Carlo Magali comes into Sunday’s match in career best condition, as reported by his camp, so it will be interesting to see if he can subdue the freakish Suarez in any way.
Charly Suarez will be looking to put on another electric display in Sunday’s WBA title defense, and is eyeing off bigger bouts in future. News just broken is that he will head to HO Tram Vietnam on December 10 and look to win the IBF belt, against a soon to be named opponent. The unbeaten boxer will be focussed on world top 10 fights in 2023, and with wins over world champs Oscar Valdez and Joe Cordina in the amateurs, he has every reason to have claims to the throne now that Shakur Stevenson has departed.
“I will fight anyone, anywhere !” beamed the ever smiling Suarez.
BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI
How to watch:
VSP Promotions Facebook https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions
What time?
US East Coast 6am
US West Coast 3am
UK 11am
Vietnam 5pm
Philippines 6pm
Australia and PNG 9pm
Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.
Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.
Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.
Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.
This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!
But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd
BE THERE, OR WATCH IT LIVE !
The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.
On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.
Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:
"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.
When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.
I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.
There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.
Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.
One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.
I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Be there or watch it here live !
Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.
Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.
Manila Lightweight DEADLY Daffy Dempo is back in action next Sunday with a highly anticipated bout with fellow Manila boxer Jonniel Laurente.
This will be the first match for the popular boxer since 2019, when Dempo comprehensively outscored Danny Manosa. Prior to that, DEADLY was involved in a drawn bout with the wild man Jino Rodrigo, who also appears on this card.
Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente
8 rounds Lightweight 132lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Palawan boxer Jahzeel Trinidad aims to keep his unbeaten record (6 wins) intact when he tackles JC Francisco (8 wins) next week.
This will be his toughest test so far, but this high energy boxer known as "Lion Hearted" has all the right tools to make it a thriller with the more experienced Francisco.
Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco
8 rounds Flyweight 112lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka offers to go toe to toe with Cagayan de Oro's outstanding boxer Mark John Yap.
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Expect things to get crazy !
Ali Cañega v Jerwin Mejes
8 rounds Super Lightweight 140lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mr. Heart Throb is BACK, and he is aiming to leave a long trail broken hearts, starting this October 23rd!!
Claudevan Sese v Albert Alcoy
6 rounds Super Bantamweight 122lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's hard man Junior Kauko Raka responded to recent suggestions that Mark John Yap would put an exclamation mark on their clash by going for the knockout. Whilst Yap, and perhaps the whole of the Philippines, know what potential dangers the PNG Prodigy brings to the ring, they are also aware that the safest plan is to get him out of there as soon as possible.
The scheduled 8 round fight will take place in just over two weeks from now, and Raka had this to say:
"Knockout ? Well let's see!
We won't be running like ring girls, and I'm ready to fight toe to toe, so he won't have to go looking for me. We will see who stays standing!"
Spoken in true Warrior spirit!
PNG's Raka has experienced only one loss in 10 bouts, a points decision at the hands of top flight pinoy Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match. The powerful Port Moresby boxer has scored 7 knockouts along a path of destruction, and notably, is yet to be dropped.
This will be a compelling match up, with "The Journeyman" Mark John Yap starting a warm favourite, but likely to experience a torrid time with his PNG foe.
D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS
RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla
8 rounds Lightweight 135lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
The Journeyman Mark John Yap is in training in Manila, and has promised to be at his destructive best this month when he contests the main undercard match prior to the giant Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali clash.
Yap is slated to fight Papua New Guinea's premier boxer Junior Kauko Raka, and is philosophical, despite suffering 4 losses on the trot. But the defeats need to be examined more closely and put in perspective !
Three of these losses were at the hands of top class unbeaten foreign opponents, where matching was done at the very last moment to ensure making weight would prove extremely difficult. Nonetheless, Yap produced really good touches in each of these bouts, and actually dropped the unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra whilst incurring a points loss.
Mark John Yap prepared in the altitude of Baguio prior to his August stoush with Charly Suarez, and the hard work showed. It was an impressive performance by the Journeyman, and it is really doubtful that any local other than the freakish Suarez could have repelled him that day.
Yap did his early preparation in Cagayan de Oro for his date with Raka, and is now in Manila being mentored by Elorde's Jetro Pabustan. He has a pragmatic view on his impending battle:
“If I’ll have the opportunity to knock him out, then I’ll knock him out,” said Yap.
“If he’s tough, then I’ll try to do my best and dominate him.”
If he's tough ? Well, one thing we know about the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka is that he's carved from granite, and has skills, so this should be a thriller !
And for the Journeyman, you just know that this international star will produce something special this month and even more, the best is yet to come !
Mark John Yap v Junior Raka (PNG)
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Clarence Breboneria and Mark John Yap finish their working day with more rounds in the bank.
Breboneria had a battle with Dengue fever earlier this year, but is now back to full health, and is aiming to be at his energetic best for his upcoming bout.
The Journeyman Mark John Yap will be appearing at the BATTLEFIELD this month in an absolute belter of a match up with PNG’s Junior Raka.
Yap has ventured from CDO to Manila to have the final touches put on his preparation by coach Jetro Pabustan.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Charly Suarez knows full well the reputation of Carlo Magali, and is aware that "the Ferocious" will throw everything at him in order to retain the national title - including the kitchen sink!
The King's Warrior is a big fan of Magali but assures, if it turns into a dog fight, he equally knows how to get down and dirty.
" Team Suarez like to box smart, and we know Carlo has the power. But we are also willing to meet FIRE with FIRE !
We are carrying bombs, and we will use them if we have to" warned the "King's Warrior".
Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali
RP National title WBA Asia title
12 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
The relentless punching machine that is Remon Basas returns this month, and matches up with rangy young southpaw Jestine Ace Tesoro.
The bout will signal a move to the heavier weight classes for Basas, but without doubt, Olivetti Gym will have him well prepared for the task. The 24 year old fighter is still very much on the improvement path, but has already racked up 6 wins, and has experienced good opponents like Delmar Pellio, Lorenz Ladrada and Franco Serafica.
The great thing that has characterized all his performances is that he always brings the heat! This kid is relentlessly working in the ring, and has a low looping style that sets up really effective body punches.
Jestine Ace Tesoro is a really promising type. He had good moments against JonJon Estrada, outgunned a very savvy Lorence Rosas, and then was narrowly beaten in Japan. But for Remon Basas, Tesoro is just another guy across the ring, and he will be bringing a bucket load of BAD BAD intentions to the party !
Remon Basas v Jestine Ace Tesoro
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap takes on the might of Papuan hard man Junior Raka later this month in Paranaque Manila .
Yap is one of the Philippines' best internationally credentialed boxers in recent years, having amassed 30 wins and three OPBF titles on the road in Japan.
But he is experienced enough to know that you can never underestimate an opponent, and in Junior Raka, you have a nemesis with skills and a warrior heart to match.
"Raka already has a history with Pinoy boxers. He has had two big wins, and then a narrow loss to Roldan Aldea for the WBA belt, and we have a big opinion of Aldea here in the Philippines.
We know that Junior Raka will bring energy and aggression, and a love for the battle. We respect that, because we love it too! So bring it on, and we welcome you to the Philippines Mr. Raka ! "
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Don't miss this iconic main event at the BATTLEFIELD show this October.
Charly Suarez is the former amateur champ and has looked flawless in his pro career so far. He has a singular intent to work to a world title opportunity.
Carlo Magali has been one of the most under estimated yet effective pinoy warriors in recent years. Known as "The Ferocious", and for good reason, he has a history of dismantling more favored fighters.
Who will get bragging rights ?
Come to the BATTLEFIELD and claim your piece of history !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Palawan sharp shooter Erson "the trigger" Trinidad is set to bring his all action style to Parañaque this October when he joins the BATTLEFIELD !
The promising youngster returned from a near 3 year hiatus in August, accounting for a very good fighter named Arjay Recopelacion. Whilst there were plenty of good touches from both boxers, the Puerto Princessa native gave the impression there is a lot more up his sleeve with his majority decision win.
The victory by Trinidad was his 4th as a professional, and based on the blazing hand speed he showed, expect him to come to the BATTLEFIELD all guns loaded and ready to PULL THE TRIGGER !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papuan pugilist Junior Raka is putting in the hard work and looking forward to an October 23 rendezvous with hot pinoy Mark John Yap.
The Cagayan de Oro boxer arrived in Manila last night, and will complete his training with elite sparring in coming weeks.
The match will be PNG Prodigy Raka's first since the pandemic, but he has the mindset to over ride all obstacles and bring a strong performance to the BATTLEFIELD event.
Raka welcomed his opponent: "Good morning to Mark John Yap. I look forward to joining you in Manila. I know we will give all the boxing fans in the Philippines and PNG a great match. Boxing is my life so I thank you and the people of Philippines for the opportunity !"
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Junior Raka v Mark John Yap
Main Undercard
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Surely a million dollars worth of talent, all in the same cafe!
Clarence Breboneria, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan discussing politics, climate change, religion, dating apps, and even how to bring down their next opponents.
YES these boys are DIVERSE !
Watch out for the middle guy, a KILLER named Yap. He is CDO through and through, but just arrived in Manila to prepare for an October 23 showdown with Papua New Guinea's strongman Junior Raka.
Mark John Yap looked in great touch in August when he fought the King's Warrior Charly Suarez, and both these fighters return to the ring in October and form the two main events.
Suarez has a formidable task of his own, taking on the very Ferocious Carlo Magali.
If you are in Manila and a diehard boxing fan, you don't want to miss these two epic features. Cracking support bouts also.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Love watching this guy at work.
Three times OPBF champ, and a technician with 30 wins to his name, Mark John Yap is without doubt the most experienced boxer amongst an outstanding card at the BATTLEFIELD next month.
It is a rare treat to see Yap perform on home soil, as he has fought abroad in places like Japan, USA and Dubai in recent years. He made a quick trip home in 2019, and was rewarded with an impressive Knockout win in front of adoring CDO fans. He was not sighted in the Philippines again till August of this year, when he faced the mercurial Charly Suarez in a WBA title bout. Despite a points loss, it was a near vintage Yap that impressed onlookers and Suarez himself :
" Mark fought a very clever fight. He reads the punches very well, and he shows his experience with lots of variety. He is very tough and experienced. "
Yap never has easy opponents, and in his inimitable style, takes on Papuan Warrior Junior Raka in his upcoming bout.
Raka was a feisty amateur before turning pro, and despite limited opportunities, has shown great signs. He scored two great wins over quality Pinoy Allan Vallespin, and endured a points loss over the top class Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match.
It is also well known that the "PNG PRODIGY " has 7 additional fights not listed in BoxRec, and is unbeaten with 6 knockouts. BOOM! This pride of Papua New Guinea has got guns in both hands!
This will be a colossal contest, and like any fight of Mark John Yap, we would not expect anything less!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
That's right, another torrid Friday afternoon session, but always time for a smile amongst the hard work !
Promising talent Clarence Breboneria is surrounded by boxing wisdom with Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap lending some advice.
Breboneria and Yap have big fights coming up in October, and are sure to be in immaculate shape under the guidance of Pabustan.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Cagayan de Oro boxer Mark John Yap returns to Manila on Monday to ramp up preparations for his impending clash with Papua New Guinea hard man Junior "the Prodigy" Raka.
Yap had been on the international circuit for many years prior to the pandemic, and local fans have really been deprived of seeing his superb skills on home soil. His appearance at the BATTLEFIELD show next month is a huge coup, because Yap had only performed twice in the Philippines in recent history.
After a highly successful stint in Japan, which culminated in 3 OPBF titles, Yap returned briefly to his native Mindanao in 2019. While he was there, he took on the really promising fighter Ulysses Lagos, a bout that he won by impressive KO in front of a big crowd in CDO.
Yap was not seen again in the Philippines till August this year, where he engaged in a WBA belt clash with the unbeaten Charly Suarez. This was a really superb performance by Yap, and despite losing on points, endorsed that he is still at the top of his game.
It was anticipated that no matter who Mark John Yap matched up with this October, it would be a "stay busy" assignment, possibly a soft win, but then the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka threw his hat in the ring!
Raka is of short stature and powerful, and typically PNG warrior stock, a real tough SOB! And the man has skills too!
Junior Raka has accepted this challenge at really short notice, more so, he asked for it! It is super impressive stuff in a sport where many are constantly hiding out.
VSP Promotions can say emphatically that NO ONE WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP, so that gives you some insight to how highly regarded "the Journeyman" is at home.
But reputations count for nothing once you are in the ring and touch gloves, so DO NOT MISS THIS BOUT! Fireworks !
MARK JOHN YAP v JUNIOR RAKA
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
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/
Vietnam team and Victory8 boxer Thomas "Infamous" Wu finally makes his pro debut in Florida this Friday night.
Thomas Wu was part of a high talent Vietnam team that took on international boxers in Hanoi in late 2019, and he put on a great display, trading punches with Australasian champion Michael Pengue.
22 year old Wu will take on Anthony Curtiss, a veteran with 3 wins on his resume.
Both these fighters are extremely tall for welterweights, with Vietnam atomic blonde Thomas Wu at over 6 feet and no problems on the scales. This debut fight will be over 4 rounds, and based on his performance at Victory8, expect to see INFAMOUS to kick some butt and make some seriously noise !
GO VIETNAM !!
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 fighter Aisah Alico returns to the ring for the first time since early 2019. This southpaw from CDO is an experienced and internationally travelled war monger, and has some of the best fighters in the minimumweight division on her resume. She makes her return here as a flyweight, and despite being able to easily attain the lighter weight class, she comes to TIGER 2022 at the identical height of opponent Linn Sandstrom.
“D’Striker “ is perfectly monikered as she has really good hands, and she does create awkward angles from her southpaw stance. Ring rust may play a big part here for Alico, as her opponent has the advantage of recent competition. But for sure, experience is the trump card for Aisah, having shared the ring with top names like Yuko Kuroki, Momo Koseki, Ayaka Miyao and Philippines’ Jess Pagaduan.
The lack of recent form makes this match up tricky to pick, but it must be said, the CDO based Alico has defeated more experienced girls than Sandstrom in her 7 previous wins. She has also stopped 5 opponents along the way. Hmmmmm!
One thing is for certain though, it is great to have women’s boxing finally back in action once more!
GO GIRLS!!!
The opening men’s bout at TIGER 2022 will almost certain to set the benchmark for fast hands and feet!
A minimumweight clash over 4 rounds between young resuming boxers Malfred Majadas and John Jayvee Antonio, and both boxers have speed to burn!
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. 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 sadly, we haven’t seen this promising prospect since early 2019.
So what do we know about Majadas? Well, he is relatively tall orthodox fighter. He uses distance quite well, and he has a patient conservative style. He is not a silly risk taker, and he selects his shots. His main attribute has also been constant improvement, and his most recent win against Francisco Morales, was emphatic enough to earn a unanimous decision.
John Jayvee Antonio shapes up as an interesting counter argument to the Mad Dog. This Manila based orthodox has also been absent since early 2019, and has a lesser record at face value of 1 win from 4 outings. But you only need to delve a little deeper to see that Antonio has had the far harder opponents, and his most recent points loss was to Alexander Almacen, a winner of his only 3 bouts.
Antonio is certainly a bit of a dark horse in this bout, but he boxes well, and has some variety in his first attacks which may pose issues for Majadas. He possesses a nice lead left hook, and he also throws his shots with a little more venom than the more amateur styled Mad Dog.
This is a really interesting bout, where both boxers resume from a long break, so there is plenty of guesswork. The “mad Dog” Majadas will be a warm favourite, but styles make fights, and expect Antonio to give him lots to contend with in this opening match.
MALFRED MAJADAS v JOHN JAYVEE ANTONIO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Popular Elorde fighter Ali Cañega scored an impressive stoppage win at Ilocos Sur on Saturday. In what was his first appearance since a close tussle with Richard Morales in September last year, Cañega started well, and dominated the action from the opening bell. The man known known as "Carnage " dropped opponent Menard Abila four times in the opening round before the referee called time.
The stoppage victory pushes the unbeaten Cañega to 4 wins in the professional ranks, 3 coming by way of Knockout
2021 was a regrettable year of gym closures, lockdowns, and quarantine bubbles. That not only made putting on an event extremely expensive and difficult, it made including women near impossible.
But all good things come to those who wait, and finally next month, TIGER 2022 sees Linn Sandstrom (1 win) of Australia (by way of Sweden), take on Mindanao’s Aisah Alico (7 wins).
Despite the relative inexperience of Sandstrom , she is on a fast track to learn, and has an interesting back story.
The Brazilian-born fighter was raised in Sweden, where she fell in love with table tennis, and went on to represent her country in the sport.
“Everyone back in Sweden knew me as the girl who played table tennis”
“It is (quite a leap to go from table tennis to boxing), but I’ve been an athlete my whole life so that athlete lifestyle is what I love.”
Sandstrom moved to Australia five years ago and got serious with her ambition to become a pro boxer. While there were skills she picked up in table tennis that came in handy — like hand-eye coordination and footwork — the fight game has one major difference.
“A lot of things are similar except you don’t get punched in the face when you do table tennis,” she said.
Sandstrom will fight Aisah Alico, a southpaw from Cagayan de Oro, before venturing to the States and central America to get some quality sparring. Her ambition is to string some wins together in 2022, and perhaps challenge some bigger names as the gloves start to feel as comfortable as the table tennis racket!
“I’ve had people that really, really want to see me fail. I’m a female that, I’m not just there to say I’m going to do things, I’m here to put in the work and that seems to irritate a lot of people.
“I’m doing me, this is my journey. I’m here to stay now, I’m here to prove a point.”
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
This is peak Lomachenko !
So knowing that, it's scary how much Suarez has improved since this match, and you will get to witness that first hand when he meets Tomjune Mangubat for the WBA title next month.
Charly Suarez is now 9 and 0 in the pro ranks, and is yet to drop a round!
Interesting footnote to this match with Lomachenko:
Suarez was unable to take part in the bout, as he had suffered a shoulder injury, making it almost impossible to raise his arm. He had also been contesting lighter weight classes. He was told he MUST fight, so he obliged, and decided to just do his best. After this bout with Lomachenko, Suarez required blood platelet injections and constant physiotherapy for the damaged joint, keeping him out of the ring for almost two years. He regrouped, and became the Philippines most esteemed amateur, winning countless international tournaments, including 3 SEA Games gold medals.
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/
Jules Victoriano put on an exemplary boxing performance against a spirited Dave Barlas last night.
Victoriano used his height and reach advantage to perfection, and despite some lunging attacks from Barlas, he was able to enforce an impressive stoppage.
The Elorde boxer, originally from Iloilo, moves to 11 career wins, 8 by way of KO.
Amongst a collection of quality fighters at next month's TIGER 2O22 , the resilient and versatile Pablito Canada Jr. stands tall.
A winner of 7 matches, what has defined his career so far are the resume of opponents he has encountered on his path. The conclusion to be drawn is, Pablito Canada is only chosen for the very most dangerous assignments that other agents ( I mean boxers!) feverishly avoid !
Canada's last win was in late 2019, against Jetro Pabustan, a winner of 30 bouts, and a former WBO world title challenger.
Since then, he has taken on the unbeaten Japanese Ryosuke Nishida in Japan.
Then came Philippines' best boxer, the unbeaten Charly Suarez, and at the heavier class of super featherweight!
And to top that off, he then locked horns with perhaps the Philippines most deadly in KO King JonJon Estrada ! THE WOLVERINE !! Ughhh!
Pablito Canada has fought many of the division's best both locally and overseas, and it is no great surprise that his next opponent is no lesser name!
PABLITO CANADA v RICHARD PUMICPIC
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE
TIGER 2022 plays host to an array of top name fighters, but without doubt, one of the best match ups is Olivetti’s Remon Basas taking on Jason Buenaobra.
These two boxers could not be any more different in style, yet both are on an upward trajectory. Perhaps the only form line that unites them, is a common opponent in the form of the very talented Lorenz Ladrada.
Remon “Bad Bad” Basas showed promising signs in his first bout of 2021, losing a points battle to Ladrada. Whilst beaten on timing and speed, he showed lots of come forward, and even late into the final round, he still loomed dangerously. He followed up that effort with an excellent win over a vastly improved Marklin Itim, a super close affair that was underscored by a massive punch count for both fighters. But it was the accuracy and shot selection of Basas that swayed the judges, and it was definitely a great showing by the Olivetti boxer.
Jason Buenaobra resumed from a long lay off, and took on Ladrada last December. Showing no signs of rust, “Manefisto” showed beautiful ring control from the southpaw stance, and dominated his opponent for much of the fight. The points loss doesn’t tell the whole story though, as he fought a better version of “Cerberus” Ladrada than Basas did, and he also enjoyed lots of great moments. That fight was also at featherweight, and no doubt, the move to super bantam will really assist his cause.
This one plays out as a total war!
Yes, Jason Buenaobra is the more experienced and technical boxer. But Basas is strong, and he also owns a swarming style that gives rivals no peace, and he will be looking to make this a very dogged, physical contest.
Can he solve the Buenaobra southpaw puzzle? Let’s see, but “Bad Bad” Basas definitely has plans to make life extremely uncomfortable for his classy opponent!
REMON BASAS v JASON BUENAOBRA
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Young, tall and stylish ! And then some! That's top prospect Jestine Ace Tesoro, a rangy 22 year old who has shown beautiful amateur touches in his five pro wins to date.
Last December, the game Tesoro dived into the very deep end of the pool, taking on the far more experienced and very lethal JonJon Estrada. In a cracking action bout, Tesoro worked a beautiful jab, and even gifted the Wolverine a new pair of "wobbly boots" for his efforts! So of course, we wanted to see more!
Jestine Ace Tesoro returns this March to take on an abundantly skilled "Pride of Palawan " Lorence Rosas. This will be a chess match for sure, as Rosas shoots from unconventional southpaw angles. At almost 5 feet and 9 inches, Tesoro has a significant reach advantage, but Rosas is superb at solving height puzzles. It is worth noting, Rosas gave top prospect Virgel Vitor headaches in their recent clash, despite the significant height and weight advantage of his opponent.
Equal measures of strategic warfare here!
JESTINE ACE TESORO v LORENCE ROSAS
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
When they met in July last year, we had the makings of an epic and intriguing battle.
Roberto Gonzales, a winner of 28 bouts, and one of the Philippines most avoided fighters, looking to get ring time after an extended break.
And Jino Rodrigo, a bona-fide MADMAN, afraid of nothing, and looking for big challenges to make himself a name.
The result?
Exquisite violence !
Rodrigo and Gonzales performing a skilful and brutal dance that MUST be seen again !
Gonzales says he will be far better prepared this time, and Rodrigo, who has been sparring the likes of Joe Noynay says simply, "I'm improved!"
This is bound to be a beautiful and horrific theatre experience in the one viewing!
JINO RODRIGO v ROBERTO GONZALES
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
When it comes to skills and experience, look no further than outstanding super bantam Giovanni Escaner, who resumes at TIGER 2O22 next month. A winner of 20 bouts, national titles, and interim regional belts, Escaner has all the tools to be both boss and teacher!
So who better for young boxing prodigy Carl Jammes Martin to work with yesterday than the "Little Giant" himself!
Wonder Boy is on a fast track to learn as much as possible from top locals like Escaner before he heads overseas. Until then, he has important business at hand, tackling Ronnie Baldonado for the WBA Asia title.
Giovanni Escaner will make his first appearance since 2019, and meets Albert Alcoy, a winner of 15 fights.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Arnel Baconaje is without doubt one of the Philippines' best and most technical boxers.
He is also one of the most difficult to match!
"The Silencer" is a very skillful and solidly built 130, with a big KO ratio, and unfortunately, had three opponents drop out en route to TIGER 2O22.
Enter saviour Leonardo Doronio !
The internationally experienced, and former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner, resumed from a lay off in December, and produced a really solid win against Jimmy Borbon at 140 super lightweight. Doronio looked "heavy" in that match, and despite his strong showing against an improved Borbon, gave the appearance that a drop in weight class would really suit.
So when the call went out for a quality opponent for the much ducked Baconaje, Leonardo Doronio was quick to answer. But how to make a fight happen between fighters two divisions apart?
Simple - let's meet in the middle !
ARNEL BACONAJE v LEONARDO DORONIO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
OK fight fans, here are three of the very best athletes that will be appearing at the upcoming TIGER 2O22 next month.
Arnel Baconaje, Jonathan Almacen and Benny Ligas pictured after yesterday morning's workout, and already looking ready for battle!
Baconaje is one of Philippines elite, and returns to the ring to match up with last start winner, and former Pacquiao sparring partner, Leonardo Doronio.
Jonathan Almacen is a quicksilver light flyweight, and has a much anticipated (and dangerous ) clash looming with the unbeaten John Paul Bentoso, a young killer who has posted all his wins by way of knockout !
Ben Ligas is all set to defend his Philippines national title, and the word is, he is training the house down!
Good luck boys, we know you will put on a great show!
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Behind the scenes of TIGER 2O22, and in the early hours of Saturday morning (while the rest of us sleep !) rest assured, the stars are hard at work !
Giovanni Escaner, Malfred Majadas, Lorence Rosas and Jason Buenaobra were put through their paces in a darkened Manila, and are set to create some sunshine this coming March !
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Please note changes:
Jerven Mama withdrew last night due to an ear injury. He has been replaced by the GAB approved boxer Roland Biendima from General Santos City. Biendima is a winner of 15 bouts, and recently fought a points battle with champion Jade Bornea.
We have also added (finally !) a women's bout, where Linn Sandstrom from Australia (by way of Sweden !) takes on Aisah Alico in a flyweight contest.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Palawan beach boy Lorence Rosas has arrived in Manila, and is already busy in camp for next month's TIGER 2022.
The x-factor southpaw, labeled the "Pride of Palawan", last fought in December against a much bigger Virgel Vitor, and there was plenty to like about his performance.
Rosas will drop to 126 to take on the promising Jestine Ace Tesoro, a winner of 5 bouts. This is a great featherweight match up, and it will be interesting to see how Tesoro's height and skills fare against the unpredictable southpaw style of Rosas.
LORENCE ROSAS v JESTINE ACE TESORO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Michael Dasmarinas has been boxing from the time he was a kid, and since turning professional at the age of 19, has amassed an incredible 30 wins, many at the highest level (20KO). The champ, known as Hot ‘N Spicy, is rightfully regarded as one of the Philippines’ marquee boxing talents, and in 2021 he shared the ring with perhaps the greatest pound for pound fighter on the planet, Naoya “the Monster” Inoue for a world title shot.
The outstanding 29 year old fighter returned to the ring in Manila last December, where he took on the rugged Ernie Saulong. The match was meant to be “stay in shape” bout for Dasmarinas, as he awaited another big international match, however things (as are often the case in boxing!) didn’t go to plan!!
The combatants Dasmarinas and Saulong clashed heads early in the fight, forcing Saulong to retire prior to round four courtesy of an accidental head butt. The match was deemed a NO CONTEST! Ughhh!
Never one to dwell on misfortune, the champion Dasmarinas is back next month for TIGER 2022. And in the best traditions of the tiger, expect to see this pinoy boxing great full of renewed zest and energy for all the challenges of the new and great year!
MICHAEL DASMARINAS v DANNY TAMPIPI
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HER LIVE !!!
Nguyen Van Hai was pulled from his TIGER 2022 bout with mad dog Jino Rodrigo. At the time, it was expected that he undertake 10 days quarantine. Too long! Philippines' loss is Vietnam's gain, and the Hanoi fighter returns to the ring March 26 in HCMC. The comeback marks more than two years since Nguyen Van Hai and Charly Suarez locked horns at Hoan Kiem Lake back in October 2019.
Mindanao lays claims to being the most prolific breeding ground of talented boxers anywhere on planet Earth ! And this compelling truth is reinforced with the knowledge that four of the six main event fighters are from the warrior isle! Charly Suarez and Ronnie Baldonado hold key roles in both WBA titles at TIGER 2022, and despite facing stiff opposition, and will be out to show that very definitely, DAVAO DOES IT BETTER! Suarez sees a victory over Tomjune Mangubat as a catalyst to his world title aspirations, and is set to deliver a career best performance.
Ronnie Baldonado has already been dismissed as an underdog against the unbeaten Carl Jammes Martin, but he holds no regard for the peanut gallery. Jhong Jhong will be a revelation at the new weight of 122, and has no doubts that Wonder Boy will be in a world of trouble come fight time!
ps those who said Baldonado is too small, compare him to 130 pound Charly Suarez and do a rethink!
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!
Ronnie Baldonado claims that the Wonder Boy has had it easy in his unbeaten run, and has been given way too much respect from previous rivals. Baldonado, who has not fought since 2019, has been working hard on skills, strength and conditioning in the down time, and promises a more physical athlete in his return bout. Now 25, the former bantam has really developed solid muscle in the gym, and is convinced that 122 pounds is his new home! Those that have seen the recent efforts of "Jong Jong " are true believers also, saying that he is far more energetic and lethal at the new weight.
Baldonado is so confident, he wanted a big match at super bantam, and surely there is none bigger out there right now, than a WBA Asia title shot against boxing prodigy Carl Jammes Martin !
BALDONADO v CARL JAMMES MARTIN
WBA Asia Super bantamweight title
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!
Just confirmed!!
Ronnie “Jong Jong” Baldonado will take on Carl Jammes Martin for the WBA Asia title in Manila on Saturday March 12. The Mindanao fighter boasts a superb record of 15 wins and 2 losses, and returns to the ring for the first time since late 2019. The solidly built Baldonado has a wealth of experience against varied styles of opponents, including international fights in China and Japan. Winning on the road in China is never easy, but Jong Jong made sure his efforts were not in vain, by knocking out his two opponents in Beijing!
Ronnie Baldonado jumps in weight class to take the Wonder Boy challenge, but the strong orthodox fighter looks a nice foil to Martin’s southpaw magic. He lacks nothing in the power department either, having put 9 of his previous victim’s to the sword. Baldonado will come to Manila all guns blazing, and he certainly won’t be fazed by the reputation of Carl Jammes Martin, nor his unbeaten record!
Expect fireworks here, as Baldonado will have the self belief that he will be the first to put this Wonder Boy on his butt!
Great fight!!
CARL JAMMES MARTIN v RONNIE BALDONADO
WBA Asia Super bantamweight title
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, manila
Saturday March 12
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!
Just in !
Great news for fight fans is that unbeaten Omega Cebu prospect Carlo Bacaro will make a surprise appearance on the undercard of Suarez / Mangubat this March. Bacaro at only 22 years of age, is already one of the most exciting strikers in Philippines boxing, having landed 6 knockouts in his 8 victories thus far. His appearance at TIGER 2022 will mark a full year since his previous bout, a defining match against the unbeaten Allan Villanueva. The Cebu boxer showed exemplary skills and maturity in that clash, ousting the classy Villanueva via an unanimous decision.
Carlo Bacaro is a stable mate of main event fighter Tomjune Mangubat, and this pair are two of the very best talents emerging from the very strong Omega Cebu stable.
Full fight card news coming very soon!
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
The very talented southpaw Lorence Rosas returned to the ring after an extended break last year, and despite his best laid plans, the comeback proved to be full of unexpected challenges. Palawan is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, renowned for its white beaches, clear waters and amazing biodiversity.
But if you are a boxer, it sucks!
No reputable gyms, and no events for aspiring fighters, even quality sparring is near impossible to find. And as if the location isn't difficult enough for a boxer like Rosas, Palawan had some surprises in store last December. Typhoon Odette ravaged Puerto Princessa, and unfortunately, the house of the Rosas family was destroyed. Whilst many others spent Christmas around the tree, Lorence languished in a tent! Not one to be deterred, the very resilient Lorence Rosas attacks the new year with renewed zest, returning for TIGER 2022 on March 12th. And after much logistics, the "Pride of Palawan " has been matched !
Jestine Ace Tesoro is a stylish young fighter on an upswing. Despite losing his most recent bout to the lethal JonJon Estrada, Tesoro had the Wolverine wearing wobbly boots during their epic encounter. This match up will prove to be a really interesting measure of Rosas, who drops to the more suitable featherweight division. In fact if things go to plan, expect to see the talented Palawan boxer settle back at 122 pounds in the near future.
With 2021 best forgotten, the exciting news is that the Pride of Palawan is back, and ready to show the boxing ring is his home away from home !
LORENCE ROSAS v JESTINE ACE TESORO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
JonJon Estrada is back to work, and has his sights firmly on his next big opponent, ultra gifted CDO boxer Jess Rhey Waminal. Estrada, known as "the Wolverine", has achieved cult status courtesy of his "don't die wondering" fighting style.
JonJon Estrada has perfected a low, stalking attack that has opponents constantly retreating, often to a violent demise. His record of 13 knockouts from his 14 wins paints a stark picture, as does his ominous recent form. The Wolverine had a blistering 2021, winning his last three bouts with stoppages that would get most men arrested !
Australian trainer Tony Del Vecchio also sung the praises of JonJon Estrada recently :
" I love the pinoy style, they are always very physical, combative and exciting. They turn up to entertain, and to hurt. I have seen some big hitters in the Philippines, but I swear, this guy JonJon Estrada is the scariest puncher I have seen ! Man, the guy has a serious chin too, I saw him fight Suarez, and what can I say, I'm a big fan!"
JONJON ESTRADA v JESS RHEY WAMINAL
Featherweight 8 rounds
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
Elorde team at this morning's photo call ! Top pros Jules Victoriano, Ranny Quizo, Gretel De Paz, Jover Amistoso and JL Laurente all have big matches at UKC, with Gretel De Paz making her much anticipated Muay Thai debut.
Meanwhile, with an eye to the future, amateur hopefuls Bong Lipata, Raizen Jhay Dela Fuente, and Fernando Olivar are ready to steal all the attention come February 12. These boys are still only teens, and are working hard on their fitness and skills to forge a pro career later on.
Philippines flyweight champ Ben Ligas, seen combining hard work with smiles while training yesterday!
Ligas has a huge task confronting him this March when he defends his title against the precociously talented Jerven Mama. The Mindanao fighter known as "Iron Fist", is one of the rising stars of the Sanman stable, and he has his sights on returning home as the newly crowned national champ.
That's one side of the story!
Meanwhile in Manila, Ben "the Sniper" Ligas keeps toiling, keeps refining his tools to keep that belt from going south. And who better to work with than the OPBF champ Giemel Magramo, a winner of 25 fights including 20 by way of stoppage.
In the very best traditions of "tough love", let's not forget the old adage that "iron sharpens iron!"
We will see !
BEN LIGAS v JERVEN MAMA
Philippines Flyweight championship
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!
Jerven Mama and Ben Ligas are surely throwbacks to a bygone era, when real fighters were steered by the "duck nobody" policy! Their upcoming match will be for the Philippines flyweight title, where Ligas is the defending champion, and Mama is on a mission to take that mantle back to General Santos City. Both these outstanding young prospects have near identical records, and possess a common ideology :
"If you want to be the best, you've got to beat the best!"
Philippines Flyweight title
BEN LIGAS v JERVEN MAMA
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
Ben "the Sniper" Ligas said he'd defend his national title against the very best, and he wasn't kidding! The call went out, and outstanding Sanman boxer Jerven Mama was quick to respond! This match up shapes as one of the best bouts of the year, showcasing two of the potential stars of Philippines boxing.
Ben Ligas (13w) v Jerven Mama (12 w)
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque Manila
Saturday March 5
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!
The Philippines' most esteemed amateur Charly Suarez was well known for winning multiple Asian and SEA games gold medals, even representing his country at the RIo 2016 Olympics.
But since turning pro in 2019, the "King's Warrior" has looked nothing short of unstoppable, winning nine fights in quick succession, with six of the vanquished finishing on the canvas.
At an exhibition event in Hanoi Vietnam in late 2019, commentators labelled Suarez as in "the top five on the planet" in his chosen weight division. That high praise seems warranted. Read on!
Despite Suarez's loss in Rio, the performance shone a light on his potential to tear up the world pro ranks in the near future.
The pinoy star lost a contentious split decision at the 2016 Olympics, even though he appeared to win ALL three rounds (and actually was scored that way on one of the judges cards). What was very obvious was that Suarez landed the more telling shots, and further, that he would be way better suited to a longer round format than his tiring rival.
And the opponent? Well here's the kicker !
It was British champion Joe Cordina, who is now 14 and 0 as a pro, and currently sits top twenty in the world!
Charly Suarez is without peer as the Philippines best boxer, his skills are ethereal. He is now fully immersed in the rough and tough pro fight game, and while skills pay the bills, this pursuit is clearly very different to the amateurs!
Suarez tackles a regional title in only his tenth bout, and a big win will no doubt propel him up the world rankings.
Standing in his way?
A young colossus by the name of Tomjune Mangubat, who has vowed to leave Suarez's world aspirations in tatters!
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5
The Wonder Boy Carl Jammes Martin and Ben "the Sniper" Ligas were back at "the office" and hard at work today.
These boys star as the two big undercards at TIGER 2022 to the epic Suarez v Mangubat main event. And both have significant battles of their own!
Martin will fight for WBA south east asian strap, with a soon to be announced opponent.
Ben Ligas defends his national flyweight title against Sanman killer Jerven "Iron Fist" Mama. Sounds positively scary!
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5th
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
WHAT DOES CHARLY HAVE TO SAY ?
The very talented southpaw Lorence Rosas returned to the ring after an extended break last year, and despite his best laid plans, the comeback proved to present significant challenges!
"The Pride of Palawan" had to overcome a bout of COVID, a cancelled fight, and multiple quarantines, yet still managed to secure fights against two of the very best fighters in the Philippines. Impressively, Rosas took these bouts at a heavier weight class in order to "fight" his way back into the rankings. His most recent performance against giant super featherweight Virgel Vitor was quality, and he gave the top class Bohol boxer total hell from start to finish.
And as if the year hadn't been difficult enough, returning home to Palawan in December had more surprises in store. Typhoon Odette ravaged Puerto Princessa, and unfortunately, the house of the Rosas family was destroyed. While many others spent Christmas around the tree, Lorence languished in a tent!
Onward and upward, and the very resilient Lorence Rosas attacks the new year with renewed zest, returning for TIGER 2022 on March 5th.
This will prove to be a really interesting measure of Rosas, who will drop to the more suitable featherweight division. In fact if things go to plan, expect to see the talented Palawan boxer settle back at 122 pounds in the near future.
With 2021 best forgotten, the exciting news is that the Pride of Palawan is back, and ready to show he belongs.
Stay tuned, with news on an opponent for the slick southpaw Lorence Rosas coming soon!
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5th
When it comes to violent stoppages, nobody does it better than the Wolverine!
14 wins 13 knockouts, and scored 3 spectacular stoppages in his 2021 "victim portfolio" ! Lights out Nighty night !
What does the powerpunching Estrada have planned for this year, and IS IT LEGAL! Prepare the bodybags!
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila March 5th
JonJon Estrada v ?????
Stay tuned, full fight card coming soon !
Carl Jammes Martin, fresh off the back of a thrilling PH title fight with Mark Anthony Geraldo, returns for TIGER 2022 all guns blazing!
Things are sure to heat up for Wonder Boy this year, but he will need to take care of business on March 5 first!
And just who will be the next gladiator to step between the ropes and attempt to tame this quicksilver Ifugao warrior and halt a 19 fight winning streak?
JUST WAIT !
Full fight card coming real soon!
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila Saturday March 5
Will this be Suarez's first step towards a world title, or is this the coming out party for young Cebu sensation Tomjune Mangubat?
Who you got?
Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat
WBA Asia super featherweight title
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5th
WOLVERINE TO BE A "HOWLING" SUCCESS
Cult figure turned boxer JonJon Estrada created havoc in 2021, and has warned his legion of fans to expect no different any time soon.
Estrada scored three knockouts in his most recent outings, taking his tally to an incredible 13 in his 14 victories so far !
The Wolverine will be back in full blood thirsty glory at TIGER 2022 this coming March, and is promising that this will be a performance not to be missed!
Watch this space for more updates, full fight card coming soon!
TIGER 2022
ULTIMATE KNOCKOUT CHALLENGE
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5th
On the last Saturday of each month, VSP Boxing gym will be hosting professional boxing events which will be recognized internationally. There will be 6~8 fights per month and it will be televised on major TV Network.
1. Register with your details blow.
2. You will be contacted for Fitness & Rules testing at VSP Boxing Gym. For fitness, you need to show that you can complete 4 rounds of sparring under professional rules.
3. You will be paid VND 500,000 per round. (Example: If you fight 4 rounds, you will be paid VND 2,000,000 regardless of loss or win)
4. You do not require testing if you are a member of National Boxing Team, Army Team, have finished in top 5 position in the latest national boxing championship, or a registered VSP Boxer.
5. Registration is FREE. Testing is also FREE.
A. You are required to register before 21st of January.
B. You will be contacted by VSP Boxing to choose the timing of the fitness test at VSP Boxing gym.
C. The date of fitness testing is on Monday 24th January at VSP Boxing gym. You will be required to complete 4 rounds of sparring against an opponent chosen by us.
D. Two time slots are available for you to choose for your fitness test. 9:00~11:00 or 15:00~17:00.
E. Coaches of VSP Boxing will go over important rules of professional boxing you need to know. The training course is approximately 1 hour. The training will be provided on January 24th before the fitness test.
F. Final fight card for February 26th event will be published on Feb 3. Those boxers are required to sign an agreement with VSP Boxing for the event participation.
G. You will be required to come to official weigh in at 13:00 (VSP Boxing Gym) on February 25th. You need to also bring your clothing you will wear for inspection.
H. The official event will start at 19:00 on February 26th. You are required to come to VSP Boxing Gym by 18:00 or you will be disqualified automatically.
I. You will be paid AFTER the fight has been completed in cash.
REGISTRATION IS: BOXER REGISTRATION
READ RULES APPLIED: BOXING RULES