The freakishly talented Charly Suarez makes his international debut here, and with an IBF title against Indonesia’s number one fighter just to add more spice.
But why would we expect any less from a man who is very definitely the best technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced.
Suarez has racked up 15 wins at home at breakneck speed, and has perhaps lost 2 rounds in the process. He finished every bout unscathed and with a smile, suggesting it is all easy work for him. To add merit to this, Suarez certainly hasn’t had it easy, meeting guys like JonJon Estrada, Tomjune Mangubat, Delmar Pellio, Mark John Yap and Carlo Magali along the way. These are high skilled veterans that have a commonality – they punch with hurtful intent, yet Suarez has breezed through as if he is in a training session, picking up WBA and national titles into the bargain.
Charly Suarez moves on to another significant opponent here, Indonesia’s best fighter Defry Palulu.
This is a guy that Suarez was meant to fight in early 2020 for the WBC title, and it was a fight that the Indonesian was favoured to win. However the match was canceled due to the pandemic, and thankfully, these two great fighters get to meet in Vietnam for the IBF Asia belt.
In spite of Suarez’s amazing success as a pro, many of his countrymen doubt his ability to impact at world level. They cite his age and lack of power as the main impediments. But those close to the camp disagree!
This may interest some.
The Suarez team maintain he has lots of power, and that he had no intent on hurting his own countrymen. His Objective at home was to get valuable rounds and build a petrol tank for bigger fights abroad. Mission accomplished !
He says there will be absolutely no mercy shown to any foreign rivals, and if there is a knockout to be had, you’re going to see it in high definition !
The Suarez team spotted earlier today, plotting and planning the year ahead.
Charly Suarez went to 10 and 0 and top seventy in the world, when he recently captured the WBA Asia title in Manila.
The King's Warrior was to defend that title in Dubai this June, only to have the match postponed, in part, due to boxers trying to avoid the Philippines star!
OK plans change!
Suarez team stay busy, so he will have a regular bout in June, and follow that up with a title defense locally or abroad 6 weeks later.
VSP Promotions will stage an iconic event in Vietnam in December, and plans are already in place to secure Suarez a world rated opponent for the HCMC outdoor show. It is expected that many thousands of people will watch the King's Warrior, and some other pinoy stars, fight at the extravaganza.
This was a classic match up, held at the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake in the Vietnam capital of Hanoi.
This fight attracted a crowd of 25,000 people, and a television audience of millions.
Expect to see another big Victory8 event make its long awaited return in HCMC later this year.
The Games and Amusement Board recognized Philippines best boxer Charly Suarez, naming him their " Boxer of the month" in their recently released March ratings.
"Charly Suarez stuns Tomjune Mangubat with a 12 round TKO and bags the WBA Asia Super Featherweight title at the Elorde Sports complex in Paranaque City, March 12th, under VSP Promotions. "
Congratulations to the King's Warrior and wishing you continued success in your exciting career ahead. You work extremely hard to make the impossible look easy, and you put a smile on the faces of Philippines fight fans. Bravo !!
The King's Warrior Charly Suarez at this morning's training session in Manila, and already looking in pristine condition.
Suarez returned to the city last week from his home in Davao, and will now begin work in earnest for his upcoming assignment.
What's coming next for Suarez ?
News breaking soon.
Watch this space!
Lorenz Ladrada is one of the many talented Mindanao fighters to compete in Manila in recent events.
The participation of visitor fighters to Luzon, amidst the difficulties the Elorde team encountered to even create events during lockdown, definitely deserves special mention.
At TIGER 2O22, Tomjune Mangubat, Charly Suarez, and Ronnie Baldonado formed three parts of the two headline fights - all Mindanao boys.
Lorenz "Cerberus" Ladrada is a proud son of the mountains, hailing from Malitbog Bukidnon, so it is fantastic to see his family and friends get behind his journey, and even receive a salutation from the mayor.
Well done to Lorenz Ladrada and all the fighters that have managed to keep the faith and stay competitive in these hard times.
Big congrats to the "'King's Warrior" Charly Suarez for his iconic performance against Cebu star Tomjune Mangubat in the main event fight at TIGER 2O22.
The bout had the added prestige of a regional title, and the win by Suarez elevates him in the world rankings with the potential for bigger fights to come.
THANK YOU WBA ASIA - COOL BELT !!
Charly Suarez puts on a masterful performance to win the WBA Asia title against outstanding prospect Tomjune Mangubat.
The win positions the Philippines best boxer now at 10 and 0, and he rockets into the world rankings.
So what's next?
WATCH THIS SPACE !
Charly Suarez enjoying the after glow of a super day of fights at the TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge yesterday in Paranaque.
The King's Warrior played his part, winning an iconic and exciting WBA Asia title contest with freak Cebu warrior Tomjune Mangubat. It was a world class performance by the two combatants, and one that will have the world's best ducking the Philippines best fighter.
Today the champ was chilling with close friends and family of coach Delfin Boholst. And from the look of Charly's unmarked complexion, it seems coach Boholst had him pretty well trained in the art of defense !
Charly Suarez is without peer in Philippines boxing.
He put on a masterclass tonight against the best young prospect in the country to claim the WBA Asia title and put the world on notice.
Tomjune Mangubat was physically imposing, and perhaps won the first two rounds of tonight's bout.
But Suarez hands and feet were so quick, and accuracy so good, he constantly picked off an advancing Mangubat. In the end, a fatigued Mangubat was dropped in the final round, and the ref waved it off.
Suarez showed that he is far and away the best fighter in the country, and big credit to Mangubat, he was outstanding.
He will no doubt achieve big things in the future and be a star for the Philippines.
FIGHT OF THE YEAR CONTENDER
Omega Cebu coach Julius Erving Junco didn’t mince words at yesterday’s press conference. He believes that former Olympian Charly Suarez can’t mix it with their star, and if he does, he will lose every round or even worse – be KNOCKED OUT!
TOMJUNE Mangubat looks to score a huge upset today, March 12, as he faces highly touted former Olympian Charly Suarez in a World Boxing Association (WBA) super featherweight title fight in the main event of “Ultimate Knockout Challenge: Tiger 2022” at The Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañaque City, Metro Manila.
The 24-year-old Mangubat is coming in as an underdog against Suarez, who has been impressive in his career as a pro.
Mangubat, however, hopes to derail the Suarez hype train and hand him his first career defeat.
“That’s what we want for him to go toe-to-toe. We believe he’ll run. They will have a bigger chance of winning if it goes the distance because it’s their promotion,” Mangubat’s coach Julius Erving “Jinggoy” Junco told SunStar Cebu. “If possible (we’ll knock him out). We could also win all the rounds and show the judges that we’re in control.”
Mangubat tipped the scales at 129 pounds, while the 33-year-old Suarez weighed-in a pound lighter at 128 pounds.
The winner of the fight could break into the WBA super featherweight rankings and step closer at a world title shot.
Mangubat is 15-2-1 with 12 knockouts, while Suarez is 9-0 with six knockouts.
“Courtesy of SunStar”
The Wild Man Jino Rodrigo making international guests Linn Sandstrom and Jada feel welcome. When not a tour guide, the boisterous Rodrigo doubles as a boxer, and expect his clash with Roberto Gonzales to be one of the best of the day.
Can Jino get lucky two days in a row?
The three title fights all weighed in without problem, and all six boxers looked in magnificent shape.
Suarez v Mangubat WBA Asia title
Martin v Baldonado WBA Asia and RP title
Ligas v Biendima RP title
15 great fights Read all about them here:
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
Tomjune Mangubat 129
Charly Suarez 128
CHARLY SUAREZ v TOMJUNE MANGUBAT WBA ASIA TITLE Super Featherweight
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Read about all the fighters here:
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
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
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
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
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 !!
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.
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 !
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
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
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/
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/
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
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 !!!
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 ?
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
WAR DOG PRIMED TO STOP SUAREZ
Outstanding prospect Tomjune Mangubat is primed to give a career best performance on March 5th , when he headlines in Paranaque, Manila at “TIGER 2022” .
Mangubat will be fighting for the WBA Asia bragging rights, and the opposition surely doesn’t get any bigger than boxing royalty himself, the “King’s Warror” Charly Suarez. The Cebu based boxer known as “War Dog” heads to Manila armed with not only an intimidating career resume, but a purple patch of recent and devastating victories.
Tomjune Mangubat grew up in the mountains of Bukidnon, Mindanao - a place that has proven to be an assembly line for producing top fighters. Mangubat was top echelon from the start, winning local and national titles before turning pro at the age of 18. And it was no surprise that he would transition seamlessly to the pro ranks. This kid was big and rangy, had plenty of grit, and was rapidly refining his amateur skills to become a hurtful puncher. War Dog quickly earned a reputation as both technical and dangerous, winning 9 of his first 10 fights with thunderous knockouts. The signs were there from the start that the Omega Boxing Gym prodigy was something special. Significantly, he has showed the ominous signs of bigger things to come, and with every match, he has shown constant improvements in all facets of his performance.
Late in 2019, we were given a valuable insight into the mettle of the rapidly improving Mangubat when he suffered a split decision loss to Korea’s #1 fighter Jong Seon Kang.
The match was quality from the opening bell, underscored by a massive work rate and constant power punching by both fighters. Whilst many consider that Mangubat was “very unlucky” not to get the decision, it is worth noting that his Korean opponent was the very same that recently knocked out top class pinoy Pete Apolinar. War Dog was most definitely the dominant fighter in this epic clash, but rather than dwell on the unfortunate scoring, he has simply gone from strength to strength!
Tomjune Mangubat shapes as another significant road block to Charly Suarez’s world title aspirations. His four wins in 2021 foreshadow the destructive form that he will bring to Manila this March. All four were top opponents, yet all received one sided beat downs - three resulting in brutal knockouts. Only the rugged Ernie Sanchez survived on his feet, but it is fair to say that he was comprehensively bashed in an unanimous win for the War Dog.
Mangubat’s most recent performance, significantly, was also his best thus far. The match was held in October last year, against the highly promising and unbeaten Allan Villanueva. This was a keenly anticipated clash in Cebu, as Villanueva had rightful claims to victory, sporting 11 and 0 (8 KO) credentials. But Mangubat was just brutal from the start, mixing technical prowess with hard core physicality. The Bukidnon boy controlled range from the opening bell, setting the tempo going forward, and also on the back foot. He really befuddled Villanueva with wis variety of high and low punches, but it was his quality body punching that really dismantled his opponent, and the match finished with another clinical stoppage for the War Dog.
In what is without doubt the biggest local derby match of the year, you have the Philippines’ best boxer Charly Suarez, taking on perhaps the Philippines’ most dangerous , young and improving fighter in Tomjune Mangubat. Whilst no one disputes the pedigree of Suarez, there are naysayers that maintain he left his assault on the world rankings a little bit too late.
Will this be pivotal match where Suarez shows he is getting a little “old” ?? If there is anyone who can put that theory to the test on March 5th, it is certainly the War Dog Tomjune Mangubat!
TIGER 2022 ULTIMATE KNOCKOUT CHALLENGE
MANGUBAT v SUAREZ
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 5th
The King's Warrior Charly Suarez, arriving at Manila airport just moments ago! Suarez had an outstanding 2021, winning five on end against top opponents, culminating in a December victory against hot unbeaten prospect Delmar Pellio. He returned home to his native Davao for the holidays, spending precious time with friends and family.
Now Suarez is back!
With the recent confirmation of a WBA Asia title, and a killer opponent in the shape of Tomjune Mangubat, the King's Warrior was quickly back into "all business" mode! Suarez will resume training in Manila later this week, under the expert guidance of former national team fighter Delfin Boholst. The WBA title fight Suarez v Mangubat is scheduled for Paranaque, Manila on Saturday March 5th.
This just got made, and WBA approved only minutes ago!
Roldan Aldea is sidelined with injury, and champion Omega Cebu fighter Tomjun Mangubat has siezed his opportunity to continue his ominous winning streak. Mangubat is a hot young prospect with not just a great record, but boasting plenty of firepower. The imposing fighter has showed the making of something special, resolving 3 of last 4 impressive wins with scary knockouts.
The WBA were quick to recognise the great potential of Mangubat, and along with a glowing endorsement, were quick to approve the Bukidnon native for the huge WBA Asia battle with Suarez.
Big thanks go out to our partners the Elorde group, and our friends at the Omega Boxing Gym in Cebu for putting together this epic match up.
The Ultimate Knockout Challenge presents:
TIGER 2022. Featuring the Philippines best fighters including Charly Suarez, Jhun Ramonal, Carl "Wonder Boy" Martin, Richie Pumicpic, "the Wolverine" JonJon Estrada and much, much more!
Two WBA titles are up for grabs, and a Philippines title belt as well. Lots of great fighters, even greater match ups, and your chance to see real tigers up close!
TIGER 2022 Paranaque, Manila this March.
Fight card announcement coming soon!
Roldan Aldea acquired WBA ASIA Super Featherweight title in Papua New Guinea on April 25, 2021. In considering pandemic situation, WBA ASIA has maintained his champion status despite of over due date with long-term inactivities.
Roldan was supposed to defend his title against Amateur veteran Chalie Suarez on March 5, 2022. However, Roldan got an injury that he could not go ahead for this fight. Through this, WBA ASIA decided to reactivate this division as follow;
Due to Roldan’s injury & long-term inactivities, Roldan Aldea will be classified as “In Recess” status. And, Chalie Suarez team will hold the WBA ASIA Super Featherweight title match against another opponent on March 5 as scheduled. The winner of this fight would try to make a defense match against Roldan Aldea if Roldan recovers from his injury. In this Super Featherweight division, WBA ASIA EAST champion is another Amateur veteran, Mongolian prospect Tsendbaatar Erdenebat. And, WBA ASIA SOUTH title will be held in Dubai on upcoming February by Highland Promotions.
Super Featherweight division might be the most busy division for WBA ASIA in the early of this year, 2022.
"The Cobra" set to strike hard in early 2022 ! Southpaw stealth and savagery !
WBA Asia title
Charly Suarez v Roldan Aldea
Watch your step!
Vietnam's Nguyen Van Hai makes a dream come true for the rugged and too hard to tame pinoy Jino Rodrigo, who makes this special request:
"I WANT A VIETNAM FIGHTER!"
The King's Warrior Charly Suarez does more of the "Walk the Walk" when he tackles the outstanding Roldan Aldea for the WBA Asia title. Suarez has been on a rampaging path up the world rankings, and the non believers are becoming quieter and quieter! Be in zero doubt, SUAREZ is the Philippines BEST FIGHTER, so don't miss the chance to see an icon of the sport this March in Manila.
Simply put, we think ULTIMATE KNOCKOUT CHALLENGE is going to be the biggest show of the year in the Philippines! 13 fights with some of the biggest names in the country coming together to show you what quality match ups looks like. To make the event even more entertaining, VSP Promotions will give away USD 1,000 to anyone that can correctly guess the outcome of each fight! It's FREE so make sure to try our VSP SUREPICK!
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
MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !
FIGHT 2: Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
LE HOANG HIEP Debut
22 yrs old / Orthodox / Young Blood / 162cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight
Nam Dinh, Vietnam / Matrix Boxing HCMC
Young Blood, Thug Life, Saigon Psycho, Street Vigga - Russian born Hiep goes by many names, but they all point to a central truth. This young Viet is equal parts crazy brave and crazy mad ! But he can fight too !
Competing with grown men in amateur tournaments when just a teen, Le Hoang Hiep showed loads of potential, but unfortunately the pandemic and the closure of all Vietnam gyms halted that potential growth. Temporarily at least !
VSP put out advertisements looking for young Viet prospects looking to gain experience against visiting pros, and Hiep was one of the very first to respond. Despite being only a true 51kg Flyweight, Hiep begged for the Bantamweight clash with Philippines Jetro Pabustan.
“Get me that bitch Pabustan, he will be mine”!. And so the job was awarded to Hiep !
Prior to the pandemic, Le Hoang Hiep showed that he has the makings of a good pro.
He boasts plenty of speed and power, and he also showed good timing in high level amateur bouts that he contested. And the guy is super tough.!
If there was to be a query on Hiep in this bout, it would be to do with his jump of three weight classes and his ability to maintain workrate against the heavier Philippines boxer. Pabustan.is well known for his fitness, and as Hiep only commenced training recently, 4 rounds will seem an eternity against the bigger Jetro Pabustan.
JETRO PABUSTAN 31 wins
32 yrs old / Southpaw / Silent Operator / 168cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight
Malapatan, Sarangani, Philippines / VSP Elorde Manila
Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!
The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.
The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.
Jetro Pabustan will look to erase that disappointment and make an emphatic statement here in Vietnam.
MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !
FIGHT 1 Thai Hoang Huy v JonJon Estrada
THAI HOANG HUY Debut
26 yrs old / Orthodox / Nak Su / 170cm / 57kg Featherweight
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam / Maxkado Gym HCMC
When talking about the fabled Vietnamese Tiger fighting spirit, they surely must have based the narrative around Thai Hoang Huy !
This former HCMC Muay Thai champion fell in love with boxing only in recent times, and will make his debut against an absolute killer named JonJon Estrada - a man who has created absolute carnage in just about every fight he contests.
Estrada has scored 15 wins as a professional and owns THE BEST knockout stats in the featherweight division - 14 of his victims have been put to sleep !
And Thai Hoang Huy has NEVER even competed in a boxing match !
His ring name is Nak Su, which naturally enough,means WARRIOR. .
So what are the upsides for this apparently “out of his depth” upstart Nak Su ?
Huy is big and strong, and has a hardened body and resolve from his years of Muay Thai. He is also very agile and athletic, and he likely holds a speed advantage over the Philippines’ Estrada.
Thai Hoang Huy is very aware of his assignment.against Estrada, and has studied the aggressive crouching style of his opponent, and the angles at which he leverages his biggest and most hurtful punches. He is confident that he has the game plan to subdue the destructive Wolverine., and he is looking forward to the challenge.
Huy is clearly the least experienced of these Vietnam debutants, and he has the most dangerous task, but if he can avoid knockout, then he certainly has the athletic prowess to have good moments in this match. It will clearly create huge interest to see how a Muay Thai champion fares with an absolute knockout artist in the boxing arena.
JONJON ESTRADA 15 wins
33 yrs old / Orthodox / Wolverine / 165cm / 57kg Featherweight
San Andres, Quezon, Philippines / VSP Elorde Gym Manila
JonJon Estrada is surely the Philippines’ most popular and iconic fighter!
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is unleashed again this December, taking his superhero persona and hammer like fists to The Grand Ho Tram.
Estrada, known as "the Wolverine", has achieved cult status courtesy of his "don't die wondering" fighting style.
JonJon Estrada has perfected a low, stalking attack that has opponents constantly retreating, often to a violent demise. His record of 14 knockouts from his 15 wins paints a stark picture, as does his ominous bludgeoning of those that go toe to toe. The Wolverine had a blistering 2021, winning his last three bouts with stoppages that would get most men arrested ! And he carried that menace into 2022. And now it is Vietnam's turn !
Australian trainer Tony Del Vecchio sung the praises of JonJon Estrada recently :
" I love the pinoy style, they are always very physical, combative and exciting. They turn up to entertain, and to hurt. I have seen some big hitters in the Philippines, but I swear, this guy JonJon Estrada is the scariest puncher I have seen ! Man, the guy has a serious chin too, I saw him fight Suarez, and what can I say, I'm a big fan!"
The Wolverine is as complicated as he is simple. To defeat him, you need to avoid being knocked out. Sounds simple enough !
Charly Suarez will be heading to Vietnam this Friday for his first international test since turning professional. The King's Warrior will be going up against Indonesia’s best fighter Defry Palulu - a boxer with a 25-2 record and a former WBC regional belt holder.
Palulu has been in great form since boxing resumed, winning four bouts since a pandemic enforced break. His team is confident that this awkward southpaw has recaptured his best and will be the first fighter to drop the Philippines champion Suarez.
Did we say SOUTHPAW ? Ugggh !
Never ones to falter on the side of preparation, Team Suarez have been working in sparring with many of the Philippines best southpaws.
And on that subject, they don't come much better than RoyRoy D'HAMMER Sumugat, who did some excellent preparation work with Charly Suarez last week.
Good luck champs !
CHARLY SUAREZ v DEFRY PALULU
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Indonesia’s #1 Defry Palulu is in career best shape, and has been working on angles and power shots to halt the meteoric rise of Philippines #1 Charly Suarez.
It is widely acknowledged that getting a points decision against Suarez is not possible, and the Palulu team are planning to take the result out of the judges hands.
"The Unseen Hammer" has reportedly been engaged in grueling sessions in preparation for Suarez, and while Palulu team are predicting a knockout, they will be fully prepared to go 12 punishing rounds if required.
The video shows Defry Palulu at the end of 8 rounds on pads without rest ( 24 minutes continuously) You will also note, that even fatigued, his southpaw punch angles are awkward, and his power relentless.
Defry Palulu (Indonesia) v Charly Suarez (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Jules Victoriano turns the lights out on Sachin Dekwal !
Elorde's Jules Victoriano scored a stunning stoppage win in Colombo last night, icing champion Sachin Dekwal and taking his WBC Asia Continentsl belt into the bargain.
The southpaw Dekwal had boxed beautifully in the first 6 rounds, showing great hand speed and adept back foot counters.
But Victoriano pushed the action in round 7, connecting with Sachin Dekwal as he was backed against the ropes. After being dropped with a hook, the champion regained his feet, but it was only momentarily, as "Victorious" ruthlessly finished off his victim.
This was a great win by Victoriano, and a perfect statement made after suffering the narrowest of defeats to Vietnam's Dinh Hong Quan for an IBF title recently.
Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje will be looking to avenge that defeat on December 10.
THINGS ARE STARTING TO HEAT UP !
Dinh Hong Quân (Viet) v Arnel Baconaje (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight championship
The main event bout
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Saigon street cred meets the boxing ring !
Le Hoang Hiep aka thug life aka young blood returns to boxing FINALLY after a pandemic enforced holiday.
This kid was only a teenager beating up on grown men before Vietnam closed down in 2020, and when he heard Jetro Pabustan was coming in December, he begged for the assignment.
"But Hiep, Pabustan is an internationally performed and dangerous professional. He's won 31 fights, won regional titles, and even fought in a WBO World Championship. And to make things worse, he's two or three weight classes up above you !"
Young Blood responded :
"I don't care who it is.
Tell that mtfk I just wanna punch on ! Young Blood will fight anyone if the dollars are there!"
Enough said !
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
And this boy plays hard !
Nguyễn Văn Hải returns to the ring at Fortunes of War to take on the unbeaten Indonesian "Geronimo" Paisal Panjaitan.
Hải resumed from a long break from the sport in Manila last August, and was outpointed by exciting prospect Jerald Into.
It was a creditable performance, yet short of the Hanoi hard man's best work, and you can be asdured we will see a vastly improved fighter next month in Ho Tram.
"My fight in Manila was fun, but it taught me important lessons. Indonesia’s man is a very good young boxer, so this time, I must play it very hard to try for victory. Very excited!" commented the Hanoi Hitman.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Dinh Hong Quan (left) trains with legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao (centre) – Photo: NVCC
Share with Youth Online About his experience in scrims with superstar Manny Pacquiao, boxer Dinh Hong Quan said: “I am lucky to have met Pacquiao. He is a model of hard work to succeed in boxing, as well as an example of rising up in boxing. life.
Professionally, being trained with an expert boxer helps me to learn, practice and improve my abilities to prepare well for the upcoming matches. I won’t let people down.”
When asked about the secret he learned from the Filipino boxing legend, Hong Quan said that Pacquiao advised him a lot. In particular, the most memorable is the practice motto “fight hard, complete the exercises and always have faith”.
On December 10, Dinh Hong Quan will defend the IBF Asian lightweight championship, within the framework of the IBF WBO Title Matches “Fortunes of War” event.
Quan’s opponent will be Arnel Baconaje, a Filipino, born in 1988 and has a record of 15 victories, including 11 knockouts after 20 fights. Currently, Arnel also has a thorough preparation when training with the famous fighter “Japanese monster” Naoya Inoue.
(from article: Vietnam Posts)
Some of Asia's best fighters come together for an end of year celebration like mo other.
Watch the action live from Vietnam !
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO
Saturday December 10
Maybe the best young prospect in Korean boxing, but definitely the proud owner of a killer ring name, Chan-Ho Song, popularly known as Purge Boy, is Vietnam bound !
Currently training in Gen San, Purge Boy has been mixing with the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân and yes, even Pablito Canada !
Chan-Ho Song will head to the Fortunes of War event to defend his WBO Oriental Youth super lightweight title against the hard punching Thai Anuson "BoomBoom" Thonglueang.
Song is unbeaten in 8 bouts, whilst his opponent has been an absolute revelation, destroying 12 fighters in a row after losing his debut. The ring name BoomBoom says it all, and this Thai has knocked out 9 of his victims.
This will be a cracking youth title, and with Thonglueang at 18 years, and Song at 19, the sky is the limit for these two young firebrands.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
The Fortunes of War will introduce some of Asia's best fighters to Vietnam, and be advised, Indonesia are sending their "A" TEAM !
Paisal Panjaitan, coach and manager Armin Tan,and Defry Palulu formed an intimidating triumvirate pictured after yesterday's training.
And the team are pumped for bold showings at The Grand Ho Tram.
Paisal Panjaitan has been boxing less than 5 years, yet has already chalked up three impressive wins in his short time in boxing. "Geronimo" is in stark contrast to his Vietnam opponent Nguyễn Văn Hải, a legendary fighter who is adept in multiple
fight forms, and has dedicated most of his life to martial arts.
Defry Palulu is likely the best performed Indonesian boxer since the legendary Chris John, and he has amassed 25 wins and a WBA Asia title in his superb career. The southpaw with the ominous ring name of "the Unseen Hammer" will tackle Philippines quicksilver Charly Suarez in the main undercard of the night.
Vietnam staged events such as Fortunes of War offer the fans a great opportunity to see the best fighting the best, but also give everyone a glimpse of the different styles and faces that international boxers bring, and VSP extends a warm welcome to the talented and hard working Indonesian team.
Thank you for your support Indonesia, you add much needed dimension and colour to our event, and we wish you truly great performances.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
Five Philippines stars are heading to Vietnam for the iconic Fortunes of War event at The Grand Ho Tram, and these boys aren't skipping ABS DAY !
Victory8 world team member Claudevan Sese and boxer Joseph Omana joined Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap at today's workout, and these two are planning on putting on something special in Vietnam next month.
Pabustan will tackle the former Russian gang member Le Hoang Hiep, whilst the Journey Man Mark John Yap has an all action match up with Phan Minh Quân, an excellent local prospect that had won the Ho Chi Minh City youth title before the pandemic.
Pabustan and Yap will be accompanied by JonJon Estrada, Arnel Baconaje and Charly Suarez making this team the strongest Philippines representation to ever descend upon foreign shores.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10
THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN VIETNAM THIS YEAR !
This is the main event !
Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân goes toe to toe with the very lethal puncher from the Philippines - Arnel Baconaje.
Charly Suarez has been nothing short of outstanding since turning pro. But if there has been any doubts regarding his ascent to a world title, it's been that he perhaps lacks the killer instinct or power required at the highest level.
But rumors abound that the King’s Warrior never had any intention of hurting his countrymen, and that he was just happy to get valuable rounds in before heading abroad. And the word is, no such luxury will be afforded to any foreign opponents that stand in his way of a world title.
Believe it, or don't !
But if this line of thinking is correct, then one thing is sure, Indonesia’s best best boxer Defry Palulu is in deep trouble !
Here is Charly Suarez facing Domenico Valentino, not long after the Italian won the world amateur Lightweight title. You be the judge.
Philippines have a strong representation in Vietnam on December 10, and Jetro Pabustan will take on the feisty Le Hoang Hiep in what is destined to be a crazy action packed fight at the beachside resort of The Grand HoTram. The Vietnam boxer has a reputation as being unhinged, and in spite of jumping two weight classes, is confident that he can handle the much bigger pinoy boxer.
But for the well traveled Pabustan, he's seen and heard it all before !
Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!
The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.
The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.
Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
4 rounds Bantamweight 55kg
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO
Saturday December 10
With Fortunes of War only weeks away we thought we'd check in with these Vietnam Tigers and see how they are looking in their preparations.
The answer: AMAZING !
These three young prospects are daring to dream big, and will be fighting professional stars from the Philippines on December 10.
They are all on steep learning paths, and it will be a significant task just to survive their battles in Ho Tram.
(Thee princes from left)
Le Hoang Hiep fights Jetro Pabustan.
Phan Minh Quân fights Mark John Yap.
Thai Hoang Huy fights JonJon Estrada.
The boys are in super shape already and are almost at their assigned fighting weights.
Good luck to our Vietnam warriors!
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday December 10
Hanoi boxer Nguyễn Văn Hải competed in his first match in almost 3 years this past August. In what was viewed as a welcome back contest in Manila for Hai, he came away with a points loss, and a bagful of "what if" scenarios on his performance. The end result was a steely resolve to make amends for that defeat as soon as possible.
Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam, and he returns to his love for boxing on December 10 at the Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
Hai was a highly decorated amateur in younger days, having won multiple national titles and achieving medals at the SEA Games. In spite of those successes, the revered Hanoi legend has had precious few chances to box in recent years.
Hai was intent on embarking on a pro career back in 2019, and signed with VSP to pursue that ambition. The pandemic put the brakes on those plans, and unfortunately, Hai did not see any ring time until August of this year.
Nguyễn Văn Hải ventured to Manila to take on rangy southpaw prospect Jerald Into, and despite incurring a points loss, it was a decent display for a boxer with lots of ring rust. The Vietnam fighter certainly showed many of the trademark moves of his amateur days, but his distance, timing and punch volume were below the required level. But he actually looked very good, and it will no doubt be a vastly improved, and perhaps vengeful, boxer that returns to the ring at The Grand Ho Tram on December 10.
This boxer dubbed "the Hanoi Hitman" will look to reverse that loss in Manila, and he will be determined to teach his whiz kid Indonesian rival some veteran tricks of the trade !
The biggest belt matches are coming to The Grand Ho Tram this December !
Dinh Hong Quân defends his IBF Lightweight crown against the Philippines lethal Arnel Baconaje in what will go down as a fight for tge ages. This one is as close to a 50/50 as you will ever get !
Indonesia’s best Defry Palulu heads to Ho Tram to take on very likely the best technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced - the quicksilver Charly Suarez. But in spite of his unbeaten record, there are doubters that suggest he doesn't have the power to make the same impact that Manny Pacquiao has made on the sport. Defry Palulu is a former WBC champ, and Suarez the WBA King, so both camps are justified in their confidence in securing the IBF 130lb belt.
And what about this one for a torrid clash ?
19 year old Chan-Ho Song from South Korea takes on 18 year old Anuson Thonglueang for the WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight title in an 8 round bout where both boxers aim to destroy the other. The Thai has had 10 bouts this year, and has literally decapitated his opposition.
And Chan-Ho Song, who is unbeaten in 8 fights, is certainly living up to his ring name of "Purge Boy" !
Three classic championship bouts, and four other hell fire contests, so who wants some ?
WHO'S COMING TO THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 10 ?
If you can't get there, don't panic, you can watch all the action here live !
Vietnam is a hotbed of boxing talent, and there are many picturesque locations in that special country to show case the best action matches to fight fans.
The Grand Ho Tram situated in the southern beach area of Vung Tau is simply iconic, and as the name suggests, they have some very GRAND plans.
This beautiful coastal resort plans to be "THE PLACE" for boxing in Asia - think of Vegas by the beach !
And yes again, they actually have an incredible Casino (and a Greg Norman designed golf course too !)
The Grand Ho Tram have already staged two events this year, and on December 10, are going all out with the biggest sports event in Vietnam this year.
The Fortunes of War event brings together many of Asia's best fighters for the very first time, and will host three title matches sanctioned by the IBF and WBO.
The event will also embrace the fun side of boxing, and will avail three novice Vietnam prospects the opportunity to share the ring with top foreign professionals. These exhibition bouts will be fast and furious and held over 4 rounds - if they go that long!
Congratulations
to our friends at The Grand Ho Tram for being such great supporters of boxing, and for hosting the most iconic sports event in Vietnam this year.
A perfect way to end 2022 !
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort Vietnam
Saturday December 10
FORTUNES OF WAR - FULL FIGHT CARD
Vietnam's defending IBF Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quân is already in great shape for his impending clash with Arnel Baconaje, and has plans to make it an early night.
"I had to lose a lot of weight way too fast for my last fight with Jules Victoriano, and I must admit he was a very tough opponent. I feel in way better shape this time, my camp has been good, and being able to train with a legend like Manny Pacquiao has helped me a lot.
A lot of people say it was a very close fight with Philippines last time, and it was, but most did not know that I had no sparring before that match. Everybody will see a far better Dinh Hong Quân this time, and I already know that I will hurt Arnel Baconaje.
It's a very good match, I am excited for it. I am very happy to have the challenge of stopping a top fighter like Baconaje in front of my home country. "
Dinh Hong Quân v Arnel Baconaje
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
Mark your calendars, this is rhe biggest sports event in Vietnam this year, and the perfect end to the year if you are a fight fan !
The Grand Ho Tram aims to become the boxing mecca, and have secured many of Asia's best boxers for the "Fortunes of War" event.
This iconic event, which is spearheaded by three titles fights, will be broadcast by Webthethao in Vietnam, and Elorde TV and Solar Sports in the Philippines.
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10
South Korea meets Thailand in what is sure to be a firefight in the super lightweight 140lb category.
Chan Ho Song is a star on the rise, and could very easily develop into the best pro that South Korea has produced in recent years. At only 19 years of age, he has already chalked up 8 straight wins, and tellingly, has improved out of sight every time that he has entered the ring. This boy is very different to the traditional dour, gritty Korean style that you are maybe familiar with.
Song is fast, has a high workrate, nice footwork, and really works some clever angles. He is definitely durable, and he is developing some power to go with his accurate hands. This is a certainly a boxer to watch for the future - he will be top level !
Anuson Thonglueang has already created some media attention in Thailand, where he has put together 12 wins with only one loss in extra quick time. Similar to his South Korean counterpart, he is a dynamic all action fighter, and he really knows how to be effective inside the ropes.
Whilst his opponents have been lesser calibre than Song, he has dispatched them convincingly, and with real menace ! Anuson Thonglueang as obliterated 9 of his 12 victims by knockout, so Chan Ho Song will need to be careful of engaging in a trading battle with this dangerous Thai.
Chan Ho Song and Anuson Thonglueang will lock horns for the WBO Oriental Youth title.
Chan Ho Song v Anuson Thonglueang
8 rounds WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10