Age :
31
Height :
163
cm
Stance :
Orthodox
Region :
Port Moresby
Country :
Papua New Guinea
Record : PRO DEBUT
Record :
4
Wins
(
3
KO)
/
3
Loss
/
0
Draws
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải is now in Ho Tram and looks in great shape for today's weigh in.
Hai is pictured with Papua New Guinea fighter Junior Kauko Raka, who will also fight at the big international event tomorrow night in Vung Tau.
It's Fight Day in Vietnam.
PRODIGY Junior Kauko Raka is promising to impose the Papua New Guinea fight brand in Vietnam tonight. Raka takes on an imposing task - China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su.
Said Raka :
"Just watch tonight. It will be VIOLENT.
But I promise to all the people, I will make it a thing of beauty "
One of the great things about boxing is the people you meet and the friends that you make.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino is a huge venue, but you never know who you will bump into !!
Earlier today Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka met Vietnam's champion Nguyễn Văn Hải while walking the halls. Both boxers have big fights tomorrow night - Raka takes on China's Xiao Tao Su, and Hai meets unbeaten Abdul Mottalib.
Flanking the boxers are Team Raka trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
#cockybuffalopromotions #cockybuffalo #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam #TheGrandHoTramStrip #vspboxing
Team Raka have arrived in Vietnam, and first stop was VSP Gym in HCMC where they discussed all things boxing.
The team of (from left) Junior Raka, Ephraim Montoru, Martin Liri and Nelson John met with local boss Mr. Lim Song.
Raka will fight on Saturday night against China's Xiao Tao Su - a former #1 and WBO Oriental champion.
Former opponents Mark John Yap and Junior Raka are now united with a common goal - to seek and destroy foreign opponents this Saturday night in Vietnam.
The Philippines and Papua New Guinea guns will appear at a big international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
Their matches will be watched by bosses of Asia's top boxing commissions, including Richard Clarin and some team members from the Games and Amusement Board in the Philippines.
#vspboxing #TheGrandHoTramStrip #cockybuffalo #cockybuffalopromotions #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
Junior Kauko Raka en route to Vietnam, couldn't resist the temptation to drop into one of the many famous fight gyms in the Philippines.
Pictured here with trainer Nelson John, Raka reportedly looked great on pads and is already on weight.
HE'S READY TO RUMBLE !
Raka takes on China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su this Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
Papua New Guinea iron man Junior Kauko Raka pictured just moments ago.
Raka is in Manila getting some miles in the legs before flying out to Vietnam on Wednesday.
The "PNG Prodigy" will meet former China #1 and WBO Oriental title holder Xiao Tao Su on Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
#vspboxing #cockybuffalo #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #cockybuffalopromotions #vbo #TheGrandHoTramStrip
Papua New Guinea's granite fisted Junior Raka and his team are officially Vietnam bound !
The squad are en route via Manila, where they will stay till Wednesday before leaving for Ho Chi Minh City.
The PNG Prodigy Raka has the task of dismantling China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su at a big international show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino next Saturday night.
Papua New Guinea's "PRODIGY" Junior Kauko Raka just touched down in Manila.
There are no direct flights from PNG to Vietnam, so it's an opportunity to say hello to old friends and visit Manila's famous Elorde gyms.
Raka and team will fly out to Ho Chi Minh City this Wednesday.
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
PAPUA NEW GUINEA BOXER COMES TO HCMC
Ladies and gentlemen - Mr. Junior Kauko Raka
11 fights - 9 wins - 7 Knockouts
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
They breed them with big hearts in PNG !
Getting opportunities to fight in international events is never easy, and if you're based in PNG, even more so !
Friends and supporters of Junior Kauko Raka, and believers in the great sport of boxing, assembled last night to celebrate his impending task in Vietnam.
They also all contributed their valuable time, energy and money to make Raka the first professional boxer ever to step foot into the south east asian destination.
Big thanks go to promoter Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for showing the foresight and faith in the PNG Prodigy !
Also, massive thanks to the friends in PNG who really stepped up last night :
The Minister of Internal Security, and Governor of Bougainville HON Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. who took the lead to put in support by paying for the venue, and to kindly host the dinner fundraising.
And the support from these generous companies:
1- JOMIK Group Company
2- PANG Family
3- NCDC Sport Desk
4- NCDC Governor
5- PNG Sport Foundation
6- NCD Provincial Health Authority
Also, Junior Kauko Raka has a special shout out to his manager Betrand Vagelo and his admin Ezra Bonny, for making last night's celebration happen, for both him and the whole Raka team.
I'm optimistic that the combined efforts of all will pave the way for international opportunities for young PNG stars of the future.
Big congratulations to the people of Papua New Guinea for supporting great role models. Bravo !!
Have you ever met a GENUINE mountain bred Papua New Guinean warrior ?
No ?
Well that's because Junior Kauko Raka and his team will be the first ever to set foot on Vietnam soil !!
Please make the Raka team welcome at VSP when they arrive in the week of 10th July, before heading to Vũng Tàu on the 13th.
The Papua New Guinea hard man has the task of dismantling former Chinese #1 and WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su.
The match will take place at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on Saturday July 15th.
Some snapshots from the December event in Vietnam. Some great fights that night.
Big event coming this July 15th.
Mark John Yap will be back, also Nguyễn Văn Hải and a special appearance from Papua New Guinea hard man Junior Kauko Raka.
This PNG powerhouse boxer is built like a tank and he is one tough warrior that represents the unrelenting spirit of his countryman. Junior Raka makes history as the first PNG boxer to ever fight in Vietnam.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1081798786128620
Former combatants Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka will meet again in July next month, but this time as friends - not foes !!
Yap and Raka shared the ring in Manila in late 2022, where the Papua New Guinea embraced the ominous task on just a few weeks notice. It was a great fight, and both boxers showed the sort of doggedness which will make them compulsory viewing in Vietnam.
July 15th sees the duo take on top rated foreigners in the super featherweight division.
These two stars will spearhead a big international show at the Grand Ho Tram in Vũng Tàu, and is made possible by Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Junior Kauko Raka answered a call from VSP Promotions in late 2O22. Mark John Yap had just resumed boxing after the pandemic, and despite a points loss to King's Warrior Charly, he looked as skilled and dangerous as ever. So much so, we were unable to find anyone in the Philippines willing to fight him !
The Papua New Guinea star begged for the chance to fight, and in spite of a ridiculously short time to prepare, gave Mark John Yap the really hard fight that was needed. Junior Raka won a legion of new fans that day, including the man known as the Journey Man:
"I hit him with some great shots, and he just walked through them. I bruised my hands he was built like a rock !"
And how did he rate the power of the PNG boxer ?
"I work hard on my defense, but he has skills, and when he landed - he has heavy hands. I ask my team to check his gloves - it felt like he had iron in there !
Junior Raka will be a hard fight for any boxer. "
And so it is. Raka takes on Xiao Tao Su of China on July 15th in Ho Tram Vietnam. A boxer built from the same cloth as the PNG man.
Xiao Tao Su was China's #1 ranked fighter prior to the pandemic, winning a WBO Oriental title by savage knockout in the process. He resumed to lose narrowly to Vietnam's #1 61kg Nguyễn Văn Hải, and returns to his more favoured 59kg category for his assignment against Junior Kauko Raka.
This is a huge fight, where both boxers come to fight, and both carry lots of skills and heavy power. While the Chinese boxer will start overwhelming favourite, if you listen to the experienced words of Mark John Yap, then Junior Kauko Raka is about to deliver a firestorm to the sunny shores of Ho Tram Vietnam.
Big thanks to Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for making this great match up possible.
Papua New Guinea Boxer Junior Kauko Raka’s fight against Vietnamese opponent Van Thao Tran is scheduled for the 15th of July next month at the Grand Ho Tram resort and casino in Vietnam.
Raka said his preparations for the fight is going great at the moment, he is currently training with his coach Ephraim Montaru, trainer Nelson John and national coach for the amateur boxers.
“I am having some spurring with Team PNG boxers who are preparing to attend the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands.”
Raka said he will get really good preparations if he goes to the Philippines to train there whilst waiting for his fight.
“I have made commitments to go to the Philippines but in terms of sponsors I’m still yet to secure one to help me travel there to prepare.”
“If I train and do some spurring in the Philippines I will be at my best fit to take up my international match.”
Raka said he is confident to win this fight and that is his main aim as it is the national championships for Vietnam and to him it means it’s the national championship for PNG.
“I’ve watched some of my opponents fights and I’ve seen some of his weaknesses and studied his movements in terms of attack and defense so if I can prepare in the Philippines, I will be able to defeat him.”
“One of my opponent Van Thao Tran’s weakness I have seen is that he does not move a lot in the ring and he moves forward all the time so I am training on how to move back and counter punch on him when he moves forward to attack me; I will move back with my punches and see gaps to swing or stop him,” added Raka.
Raka said so far there is no confirmation from any sponsors yet who have said to help me however the member for Bougainville and Minister Peter Tsiamalili has made a commitment to assist him; also from the CEO for Sports Foundation Albert Veratau who said to look into it.
There is also a company Jomik group of companies in Bougainville who have put their hands up to assist in his travel.
Raka thanked these sponsors especially the Jomik group of companies who assisted his team when they were in Buka with their airfares back to Port Moresby and their continuous support.
VIETNAM - Get ready to be rocked by RAKA !!
Vietnam's boxing star "The Trigger" Tran Van Thao goes toe to toe with Papua New Guinea's hard man
Junior Kauko Raka - the PNG Prodigy !!
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday July 15th
Vietnam - here we come !
The Yap Attack and Head Coach Jetro Pabustan are headed to Ho Tram Vietnam this July, as they look to reinforce the stocks of Mark John Yap on the world scene.
It is expected that the Philippines star will appear on an all international event, and will fight a young top rated fighter from the Middle East.
Familiar faces to VSP followers, Nguyễn Văn Hải and Junior Kauko Raka, will also compete on the Cocky Buffalo show.
Mark John Yap will return to Manila from CDO for sparring in 10 days time, on the back of an impressive exhibition performance in Ho Chi Minh City late last month.
More news breaking soon.
Rumours are strong that Papua New Guinea's premier fighter Junior Kauko Raka may be headed to the sunny shores of Vung Tau this coming July.
The "made from granite" Raka has made no secret that he wants to fight the top international boxers, but those opportunities aren't available at home in Papua New Guinea.
HAVE GLOVES - WILL TRAVEL !
Raka has already won two pro bouts, and taken two losses - but these were outstanding efforts against world rated Roldan Aldea and Mark John Yap.
It is believed that Raka is in talks to take on Vietnam's highest ranked professional fighter, and if so, this story is sure to create big news in that country.
"I love boxing - and I believe in myself and my team. I only want to take on the biggest challenges, and show people that the fighter's from Papua New Guinea can take on the world. We have many kids here with great potential, so my mission is to bring this message to Vietnam"
Was it ever in doubt ?
YAP IS BACK !
Mark John Yap makes his eagerly awaited ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 against former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner Leonardo Doronio.
Yap has the reputation as one of the Philippines' best internationally performed boxers of recent years, thus earning him The Journey Man tag, and he will be looking to embark his 2023 trip with a great performance at home.
The former bantamweight star has only recently made the super featherweight division his new home, yet will challenge Doronio at Lightweight, such is the difficulty in getting the Mindanao product decent competition in a season opener.
Mark John Yap produced a classy performance against Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title, and endorsed that effort with an impressive win over Papua New Guinea's best Junior Kauko Raka.
Yap then ventured to Vietnam to compete at Fortunes of War, and looked good in a fast paced short format exhibition event.
Leonardo Doronio is a very experienced boxer, who will hold the advantage of being the slightly larger man. He posted good wins over Bryan Macamay and Jimmy Borbon, before a points loss to outstanding pinoy Arnel Baconaje. He will prove to be a great measure of where Mark John Yap is early in his 2023 adventure.
But the word is out - Yap is back !
January 30th marks the start of a new journey.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
One of the Philippines best performed international fighters of recent years Mark John Yap will treat boxing fans to the best new year's present possible - a Manila appearance on January 30 as a prelude to looking towards bigger overseas fights in 2023.
Yap returned home and put in a high quality performance in a WBA title clash with Charly Suarez, before overcoming PNG hard man Junior Kauko Raka in October of this year.
More recently, the star pinoy featured in a big show in Vietnam where he battled young gun Phan Minh Quân. The bout was unfortunately stopped due to an accidental head clash, with the cut requiring the CDO boxer to be stitched after the fight.
Not one to be deterred easily, Mark John Yap has informed that he will be in killer form on January 30 and he advises potential opponents - beware the Journey Man!
Champion Philippines boxer Mark John Yap and Team Raka trainer Ephraim Montoru meet after the historic bout between PNG and Philippines.
What was the topic they discussed? " Mark, which one in your opinion is better?
The San Miguel or riding the Red Horse? "was Ephraim's opener !
Papua New Guinea's very popular Junior Kauko Raka enjoys a meal with other competing boxers after yesterday's huge BATTLEFIELD card in Parañaque Manila.
Raka put on a stoic display in a cracking undercard fight with Philippines champion Mark John Yap.
Junior Raka pressured Yap throughout, winning the admiration of the crowd.
This was the first match for the PNG PRODIGY in almost two years, so expect to see a vastly improved fighter in future bouts.
And our advice is that anyone that is thinking of facing Raka ,?
WATCH OUT ! You are in for one hell of a fight!
PNG PRODIGY IS ON THE MARCH !
After the gunshots have fallen silent, and the smoke has cleared !
Huge performances tonight from Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka.
Yap showed all his boxing skills and put an exclamation mark on why he has been a multiple title holder. This "Journeyman" has a lot left in the tank, and he looks invigorated at 130lb.
Raka was a junkyard dog, constantly pressing the champion Yap onto the back foot. Junior Raka showed understandable signs of ring rust, but it was a wholehearted display that won the plaudits of Philippines fans, and was sure to make PNG proud.
Make no mistake, Raka will derive huge benefit from tonight's performance and he will be a menace to top fighters in the division.
Top quality bout. Bravo !
Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.
Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.
Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.
Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.
This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!
But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd
BE THERE, OR WATCH IT LIVE !
The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.
On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.
Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:
"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.
When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.
I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.
There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.
Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.
One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.
I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.
Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka offers to go toe to toe with Cagayan de Oro's outstanding boxer Mark John Yap.
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's hard man Junior Kauko Raka responded to recent suggestions that Mark John Yap would put an exclamation mark on their clash by going for the knockout. Whilst Yap, and perhaps the whole of the Philippines, know what potential dangers the PNG Prodigy brings to the ring, they are also aware that the safest plan is to get him out of there as soon as possible.
The scheduled 8 round fight will take place in just over two weeks from now, and Raka had this to say:
"Knockout ? Well let's see!
We won't be running like ring girls, and I'm ready to fight toe to toe, so he won't have to go looking for me. We will see who stays standing!"
Spoken in true Warrior spirit!
PNG's Raka has experienced only one loss in 10 bouts, a points decision at the hands of top flight pinoy Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match. The powerful Port Moresby boxer has scored 7 knockouts along a path of destruction, and notably, is yet to be dropped.
This will be a compelling match up, with "The Journeyman" Mark John Yap starting a warm favourite, but likely to experience a torrid time with his PNG foe.
The Journeyman Mark John Yap is in training in Manila, and has promised to be at his destructive best this month when he contests the main undercard match prior to the giant Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali clash.
Yap is slated to fight Papua New Guinea's premier boxer Junior Kauko Raka, and is philosophical, despite suffering 4 losses on the trot. But the defeats need to be examined more closely and put in perspective !
Three of these losses were at the hands of top class unbeaten foreign opponents, where matching was done at the very last moment to ensure making weight would prove extremely difficult. Nonetheless, Yap produced really good touches in each of these bouts, and actually dropped the unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra whilst incurring a points loss.
Mark John Yap prepared in the altitude of Baguio prior to his August stoush with Charly Suarez, and the hard work showed. It was an impressive performance by the Journeyman, and it is really doubtful that any local other than the freakish Suarez could have repelled him that day.
Yap did his early preparation in Cagayan de Oro for his date with Raka, and is now in Manila being mentored by Elorde's Jetro Pabustan. He has a pragmatic view on his impending battle:
“If I’ll have the opportunity to knock him out, then I’ll knock him out,” said Yap.
“If he’s tough, then I’ll try to do my best and dominate him.”
If he's tough ? Well, one thing we know about the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka is that he's carved from granite, and has skills, so this should be a thriller !
And for the Journeyman, you just know that this international star will produce something special this month and even more, the best is yet to come !
Mark John Yap v Junior Raka (PNG)
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap takes on the might of Papuan hard man Junior Raka later this month in Paranaque Manila .
Yap is one of the Philippines' best internationally credentialed boxers in recent years, having amassed 30 wins and three OPBF titles on the road in Japan.
But he is experienced enough to know that you can never underestimate an opponent, and in Junior Raka, you have a nemesis with skills and a warrior heart to match.
"Raka already has a history with Pinoy boxers. He has had two big wins, and then a narrow loss to Roldan Aldea for the WBA belt, and we have a big opinion of Aldea here in the Philippines.
We know that Junior Raka will bring energy and aggression, and a love for the battle. We respect that, because we love it too! So bring it on, and we welcome you to the Philippines Mr. Raka ! "
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papuan pugilist Junior Raka is putting in the hard work and looking forward to an October 23 rendezvous with hot pinoy Mark John Yap.
The Cagayan de Oro boxer arrived in Manila last night, and will complete his training with elite sparring in coming weeks.
The match will be PNG Prodigy Raka's first since the pandemic, but he has the mindset to over ride all obstacles and bring a strong performance to the BATTLEFIELD event.
Raka welcomed his opponent: "Good morning to Mark John Yap. I look forward to joining you in Manila. I know we will give all the boxing fans in the Philippines and PNG a great match. Boxing is my life so I thank you and the people of Philippines for the opportunity !"
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Junior Raka v Mark John Yap
Main Undercard
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Love watching this guy at work.
Three times OPBF champ, and a technician with 30 wins to his name, Mark John Yap is without doubt the most experienced boxer amongst an outstanding card at the BATTLEFIELD next month.
It is a rare treat to see Yap perform on home soil, as he has fought abroad in places like Japan, USA and Dubai in recent years. He made a quick trip home in 2019, and was rewarded with an impressive Knockout win in front of adoring CDO fans. He was not sighted in the Philippines again till August of this year, when he faced the mercurial Charly Suarez in a WBA title bout. Despite a points loss, it was a near vintage Yap that impressed onlookers and Suarez himself :
" Mark fought a very clever fight. He reads the punches very well, and he shows his experience with lots of variety. He is very tough and experienced. "
Yap never has easy opponents, and in his inimitable style, takes on Papuan Warrior Junior Raka in his upcoming bout.
Raka was a feisty amateur before turning pro, and despite limited opportunities, has shown great signs. He scored two great wins over quality Pinoy Allan Vallespin, and endured a points loss over the top class Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match.
It is also well known that the "PNG PRODIGY " has 7 additional fights not listed in BoxRec, and is unbeaten with 6 knockouts. BOOM! This pride of Papua New Guinea has got guns in both hands!
This will be a colossal contest, and like any fight of Mark John Yap, we would not expect anything less!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Cagayan de Oro boxer Mark John Yap returns to Manila on Monday to ramp up preparations for his impending clash with Papua New Guinea hard man Junior "the Prodigy" Raka.
Yap had been on the international circuit for many years prior to the pandemic, and local fans have really been deprived of seeing his superb skills on home soil. His appearance at the BATTLEFIELD show next month is a huge coup, because Yap had only performed twice in the Philippines in recent history.
After a highly successful stint in Japan, which culminated in 3 OPBF titles, Yap returned briefly to his native Mindanao in 2019. While he was there, he took on the really promising fighter Ulysses Lagos, a bout that he won by impressive KO in front of a big crowd in CDO.
Yap was not seen again in the Philippines till August this year, where he engaged in a WBA belt clash with the unbeaten Charly Suarez. This was a really superb performance by Yap, and despite losing on points, endorsed that he is still at the top of his game.
It was anticipated that no matter who Mark John Yap matched up with this October, it would be a "stay busy" assignment, possibly a soft win, but then the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka threw his hat in the ring!
Raka is of short stature and powerful, and typically PNG warrior stock, a real tough SOB! And the man has skills too!
Junior Raka has accepted this challenge at really short notice, more so, he asked for it! It is super impressive stuff in a sport where many are constantly hiding out.
VSP Promotions can say emphatically that NO ONE WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP, so that gives you some insight to how highly regarded "the Journeyman" is at home.
But reputations count for nothing once you are in the ring and touch gloves, so DO NOT MISS THIS BOUT! Fireworks !
MARK JOHN YAP v JUNIOR RAKA
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Destined to be a barnburner and likely to steal all the thunder at BATTLEFIELD this October is the Junior Raka and Mark John Yap main undercard bout.
This has all the makings of a classic showdown in Parañaque Manila, yet oddly, neither fighter has local advantages.
Junior Raka hails from Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. It's a country which is abundant in sporting talent, and where the interest in boxing is gaining momentum.
Mark John Yap is a son of Cagayan de Oro, in the southern Philippines island of Mindanao. This is arguably the most prolific location in the world for producing champion fighters - Charly Suarez and Manny Pacquiao being just two of the recent alma mater.
Mark John Yap is currently the Philippines #2 rated 130, and judging by what we saw recently against WBA champion Suarez, that looks accurate. Yap was simply outstanding despite defeat.
Junior Raka is really up against it, but that's the way he likes it. A quality amateur with plenty of firepower, the PNG Prodigy jumped at the chance to fight Yap at very short notice. Despite his recent inactivity, expect the PNG banger to bring pressure, and lots of it! He knows how to cut the ring, has nice timing, and can really find the target.
This is a fight deserving of main event status. Do not miss it !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's best known fighter is headed to Manila, and has agreed to terms to face "the Journeyman" Mark John Yap at the BATTLEFIELD on October 23rd. Junior "the Prodigy" Raka is a former Arafura Games silver medallist, and has had 3 "official" professional bouts, winning 2 by way of Knockout. But the PNG banger has 7 fights which BoxRec failed to list - all wins, and all knockouts!
His only career loss was on points to the outstanding pinoy Roldan Aldea, in a WBA title match in early 2021. Mark John Yap looked outstanding in his recent WBA clash with Charly Suarez, and his effort left Junior Raka a fan:"It was a really great fight by Mark Yap, lots of clever boxing. I was really impressed. I realize this will be a very hard fight for me, as I am accepting the job at short notice.
But I am very confident in my ability, and I know I have the power to get his attention. Make no mistake, PNG fighters are proud warriors, and this will be a GREAT FIGHT!"
Junior Raka and Mark John Yap will be the main undercard bout to Suarez v Magali at
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
BÀ RỊA - VŨNG TÀUVõ sĩ của lò Cocky Buffalo Sẳm Minh Phát thượng đài với tay đấm số một Trung Quốc Dian Xing Zhu tại sự kiện boxing chuyên nghiệp WBO Global Prelude ngày 15/7.
Đây là sự kiện do Cocky Buffalo phối hợp cùng Tổ chức quyền Anh thế giới (WBO) tổ chức tại The Grand Ho Tram Strip. Màn so tài giữa "ốc tiêu" Minh Phát và Zhu thuộc hạng minimumweight (48kg) là một trong những trận thư hùng tâm điểm của sự kiện. Người thắng trận này sẽ lấy suất tranh đai WBO toàn cầu.
Minh Phát trong trận thắng Lý Diệu Phước ở giải WBO IBF 4 Titles Match tại The Grand Hồ Tràm ngày 23/4. Ảnh: Cocky Buffalo
Trận đấu hứa hẹn hấp dẫn khi cả hai võ sĩ đều sở hữu chuỗi thành tích ấn tượng. Minh Phát hiện có chín trận thắng, trong đó có bảy bằng knock-out, qua 13 lần thượng đài. Anh được trang BoxRec xếp hạng 1 sao cùng vị trí thứ 73 thế giới ở hạng minimumweight.
Zhu được đánh giá cao hơn nhờ tỷ lệ knock-out ấn tượng. Võ sĩ Trung Quốc thắng tám, trong đó có bảy bằng knock-out, qua chín trận chuyên nghiệp. Anh hiện là võ sĩ số một Trung Quốc ở hạng cân minimumweight.
Trên bảng xếp hạng thế giới, Zhu xếp trên Minh Phát 24 bậc và được trang BoxRec đánh giá ở cấp độ 2 sao. Zhu từng giành đai vô địch WBC châu Á vào năm 2019. Với bảng thành tích ấn tượng, Zhu chắc chắn sẽ là thử thách khó khăn cho tay đấm chủ nhà.
Zhu (phải) trong nghi thức chạm mặt đối thủ Indonesia Forlando Calderon trước trận đấu thuộc giải WBC Asia Youth 2019 tại Trung Quốc. Ảnh: WBC Asia
Võ sĩ nổi tiếng khác của Việt Nam là Nguyễn Văn Hải cũng góp mặt tại sự kiện WBO Global Prelude sắp tới ở hạng cân Super Featherweight 58,97 kg. Tay đấm sinh năm 1988, từng bảy lần vô địch quốc gia sẽ so găng Abdul Motalib - đối thủ Bangladesh có biệt danh "Sát thủ Thầm lặng" với chuỗi 5 trận toàn thắng.
WBO Global Prelude còn có một số trận khác hứa hẹn hấp dẫn. Võ sĩ 17 tuổi mang hai dòng máu Việt - Hàn Lee Juyeong sẽ so tài đối thủ Indonesia Dedy Imprax. Võ sĩ Philippines từng đánh gần 50 trận nhà nghề Mark John Yap thượng đài với Mohon Ali (Bangladesh). Và võ sĩ kỳ cựu người Papua New Guinea - Junior Kauko Raka so găng cùng Xiao Tao Su, tay đấm Trung Quốc 26 tuổi đang có 11 chiến thắng, trong đó có sáu bằng knock-out, sau 14 lần thượng đài.
Some snapshots from the December event in Vietnam. Some great fights that night.
Big event coming this July 15th.
Mark John Yap will be back, also Nguyễn Văn Hải and a special appearance from Papua New Guinea hard man Junior Kauko Raka.
This PNG powerhouse boxer is built like a tank and he is one tough warrior that represents the unrelenting spirit of his countryman. Junior Raka makes history as the first PNG boxer to ever fight in Vietnam.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1081798786128620
MIndanao's boxing legend Mark John Yap is showing no signs of slowing, and will be back in the ring again at a big international event in Vietnam next month.
Yap considered retirement after returning from Japan, which was shortly followed by the pandemic - but was coaxed to lace up one more time in a WBA Title match with Charly Suarez.
His performance was outstanding, and he followed it up with two quality wins shortly after.
The Journey Man was on a short break since January, after welcoming the birth of baby daughter Yuri, and he put on some kilos in that time.
Yap has been on a six week training camp, and competed in an exhibition bout last month with Vietnam youth team member Nguyễn Hà Minh. Despite looking "rusty" early in the match, he dropped his opponent twice in the final round to etch an impressive victory.
Having just recently arriving in Manila, Yap has been under the tutelage of Jetro Pabustan, who put him through a pads session today.
Mark John Yap will fight at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vietnam on Saturday July 15th. You can watch the match here live.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/3542723195972770
SAY WELCOME TO THE NEW KIDS IN TOWN
The hard hitting Ronnie Baldonado ushers in some young blood fresh onto the Manila boxing scene !
Junny Bugas- 105lbs (wearing red), Michael Orano-122lbs (abs+tatts), and Noel Emata-135lbs
are all new to the Jetro Pabustan stable - and are ones to keep an eye out for in the future.
As for Ronnie, well he has plans of his own. This mad dog will be fighting in Japan this coming July against the unbeaten Yoshiki Takei.
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP VS MOHON ALI
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #bangladeshboxing
Chia sẻ với ithethao.vn, HLV trưởng ĐT Boxing Nam Việt Nam cho biết: "Bùi Phước Tùng và Nguyễn Văn Đương là hai võ sĩ được BHL và chuyên gia đặt kỳ vọng sẽ giành huy chương ở ASIAD 19 tới."
Ở SEA Games 32 vừa qua, Bùi Phước Tùng có chiến thắng K.O cực kỳ chóng vánh trước Atichai Phoemsak - võ sĩ rất mạnh đến từ Thái Lan để giành tấm HCV hạng cân 71kg. Đáng chú ý, Phước Tùng giành được HCV ngay trong lần đầu thi đấu tại một kỳ Đại hội thể thao Đông Nam Á.
Nguyễn Văn Đương là cái tên quen thuộc của làng boxing Việt Nam. Tay đấm sinh năm 1996 là võ sĩ Việt Nam đầu tiên vào đến vòng 16 tay đấm ở olympic. Với kinh nghiệm thi đấu quốc tế dày dặn, Văn Đương được xem là niềm hy vọng lớn nhất của Boxing nam Việt Nam tại ASIAD 19.
#ithethaovn #vothuatithethao #boxing #boxingvietnam #ASIAD19
Nguyễn Văn Hải đối đầu võ sĩ bí ẩn tại sự kiện Boxing nhà nghề WBO Global Prelude
Liên tiếp thượng đài để hướng tới mục tiêu tranh đai, Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ chạm trán một đối thủ đặc biệt ít thông tin ở trận đấu tại WBO Global Prelude sắp tới.
Theo lịch trình đã được công bố, tay đấm Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ có trận đấu chuyên nghiệp thứ ba trong năm 2023 ở sự kiện WBO Global Prelude vào ngày 16 tháng 7. Tại đây, anh sẽ chạm trán võ sĩ người Bangladesh - Abdul Mottalib, trận đấu diễn ra trong vòng 8 hiệp ở hạng cân 61kg.
Về cơ bản, Abdul Mottalib không được đánh giá quá cao so với Nguyễn Văn Hải khi võ sĩ này chỉ xếp hạng 1022 thế giới, kém xa so với cấp độ 2 sao cùng vị trí 152 thế giới của Nguyễn Văn Hải. Thành tích 5 trận toàn thắng của Mottalib cũng đều diễn ra tại quê nhà Bangladesh khi anh chưa đối đầu tay đấm nào thực sự đáng chú ý. Trái lại, những thông tin ít ỏi cũng tạo ra phần nào khó khăn trong việc tìm hiểu về đối thủ của Văn Hải.
Dù vậy, đối với Nguyễn Văn Hải, đây vẫn là một trận đấu quan trọng nếu anh muốn đạt đủ điều kiện tham gia một trận tranh đai khu vực, đó chính là có được chuỗi thắng liên tiếp trong thời gian sớm nhất.
Sau hai chiến thắng khá dễ dàng trước Paisal Panjaitan tại Fortunes of War (12/2022) và Hà Minh Tuấn tại VSP Pro 3 (3/2023), Nguyễn Văn Hải đã đánh bại đối thủ người Trung Quốc - Tô Tiểu Đào trong sự kiện hồi tháng 4 tại Hồ Tràm, Vũng Tàu. Chiến thắng trước tay đấm từng giành dan hiệu IBO-WBO Phương Đông đã giúp Nguyễn Văn Hải nhảy vọt trên bảng xếp hạng thế giới, mở đường cho cơ hội tranh đai.
Trong trận đấu kéo dài 8 hiệp tại WBO Global Prelude, Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ phải tìm ra lối đánh của Abdul Mottalib, đưa ra đấu pháp thích hợp và đặc biệt là đảm bảo an toàn tối đa cho bản thân, để có thể chuẩn bị phong độ tốt nhất cho những mục tiêu cuối năm.
Bên cạnh trận đấu giữa Nguyễn Văn Hải và Abdul Mottalib, tại WBO Global Prelude, võ sĩ Sẳm Minh Phát của Việt Nam sẽ xuất hiện trong trận đấu chính của sự kiện ngày 16 tháng 7 tới đây, khi anh đối đầu với võ sĩ người Trung Quốc DianXing Zhu. Dựa trên kế hoạch được công bố, Minh Phát và DianXing Zhu sẽ đối đầu ở hạng cân light-flyweight (49kg) để giành suất tranh danh hiệu WBO Global.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino has already consolidated it's status as Vietnam's "GO TO" destination for live boxing entertainment, and Cocky Buffalo have assembled another great show there for Saturday July 15th.
More colour, more glamour, more action - and more of the expect the unexpected !!
Vietnam, South Korea, Philippines, Russia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Bangladesh, China and Mongolia come together to make July a truly international feast of boxing talent.
If you're in Vietnam, this is a fantastic option for a weekend getaway, and the Grand Ho Tram will do you a fan friendly deal.
Hotline for tickets: Call 0254 378 8022
Former combatants Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka will meet again in July next month, but this time as friends - not foes !!
Yap and Raka shared the ring in Manila in late 2022, where the Papua New Guinea embraced the ominous task on just a few weeks notice. It was a great fight, and both boxers showed the sort of doggedness which will make them compulsory viewing in Vietnam.
July 15th sees the duo take on top rated foreigners in the super featherweight division.
These two stars will spearhead a big international show at the Grand Ho Tram in Vũng Tàu, and is made possible by Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Junior Kauko Raka answered a call from VSP Promotions in late 2O22. Mark John Yap had just resumed boxing after the pandemic, and despite a points loss to King's Warrior Charly, he looked as skilled and dangerous as ever. So much so, we were unable to find anyone in the Philippines willing to fight him !
The Papua New Guinea star begged for the chance to fight, and in spite of a ridiculously short time to prepare, gave Mark John Yap the really hard fight that was needed. Junior Raka won a legion of new fans that day, including the man known as the Journey Man:
"I hit him with some great shots, and he just walked through them. I bruised my hands he was built like a rock !"
And how did he rate the power of the PNG boxer ?
"I work hard on my defense, but he has skills, and when he landed - he has heavy hands. I ask my team to check his gloves - it felt like he had iron in there !
Junior Raka will be a hard fight for any boxer. "
And so it is. Raka takes on Xiao Tao Su of China on July 15th in Ho Tram Vietnam. A boxer built from the same cloth as the PNG man.
Xiao Tao Su was China's #1 ranked fighter prior to the pandemic, winning a WBO Oriental title by savage knockout in the process. He resumed to lose narrowly to Vietnam's #1 61kg Nguyễn Văn Hải, and returns to his more favoured 59kg category for his assignment against Junior Kauko Raka.
This is a huge fight, where both boxers come to fight, and both carry lots of skills and heavy power. While the Chinese boxer will start overwhelming favourite, if you listen to the experienced words of Mark John Yap, then Junior Kauko Raka is about to deliver a firestorm to the sunny shores of Ho Tram Vietnam.
Big thanks to Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for making this great match up possible.
International fight action live from the coastal strip of Vũng Tàu Vietnam this July.
Boxers of special interest to VSP followers are Philippines' Mark John Yap, Vietnam's Nguyễn Văn Hải and PNG hands of stone Junior Kauko Raka.
The show is been promoted by our friend Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Four Bangladeshi professional boxers will compete in three different pro boxing tournaments respectively in Australia and Vietnam between June 30 to July 15.
Joynul Islam Joy will fight for the silver title in the WBC Australasia Welterweight in Sydney, Australia on June 30 while Mohon Ali will feature in the WBC Australasia Featherweight in Melbourne, Australia on July 7.
Meanwhile, both Abdul Mottalib and Hasan Sikder will compete in another pro boxing tournament in Vietnam on July 15. All four boxers are expected to fly to their tournament destinations next week.
The details were disclosed during a press meet held at the Bangladesh Olympic Association Auditorium in the capital on Thursday.
Md Asaduzzaman, founder and chairman of Bangladesh Professional Boxing Society was the main speaker during the programme and he was hopeful that his boxers would be able to win their respective matches in the upcoming tournaments.
“Since the inception of our pro boxing society three years ago, our boxers have performed exceptionally well in several international competitions both home and abroad. I hope that they will continue the same performance in the upcoming tournaments as well,” Asaduzzaman said.
BPBS Vice-chairman Md Anisuzzaman was also present during the programme.
#cockybuffalo #vietnamboxing #VSPPromotions #vsppro #vsp #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #bangladeshboxing
The "Hanoi Hitman" Nguyễn Văn Hải will join the Philippines Mark John Yap in a quality international event in Vietnam on July 15th.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino will host the show, and will be showcase boxers from Korea, Philippines, Indonesia, China, Russia, Bangladesh, Mongolia and of course, Vietnam.
This will be the third appearance for the Vietnam legend, and after two previous wins against strong fighters, he is optimistic about his chances.
"Hải thinks three is a lucky number !
My opponent is unbeaten, and I look forward to the challenge. But I believe in my power, and it is my plan to go for the kill !"
Mark John Yap will also be of big interest on this card, as will former Philippines visitor Junior Kauko Raka, who ironically faced Yap at very short notice in late 2022.
Some great fights are planned for this event in Ho Tram Vietnam on Saturday July 15th.
Fight card announcements coming soon.
Mark John Yap is heading from Cagayan de Oro bound for Manila tonight, ahead of a fight date listed in Vietnam on July 15th.
Yap will do some intense sparring in Manila in preparation for his appearance on an all-international boxer event, which will take place at the Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on the coastal strip of Vung Tau.
The Mindanao boxer commonly known as the Journey Man, the Yap Attack, and even the Fat Yap, will fight a subcontinent boxer optimistically dubbed The Killer !
Full fight card coming soon.
Here are the results of VSP PRO 5
Yes, it's rainy season, but Saturday nights in Saigon are now getting hotter.
HOW HOT ?
Well VSP PRO is back again - TONIGHT !!
Action starts at 6pm, live from VSP Gym.
Please arrive early !!!
Rocks or diamonds ! - that's how fights between two southpaws can go, but with some luck, FernandoTagpuno jr and Bryan Tamayo may just be one of the best bouts at "Night of Champions" tomorrow in Parañaque.
Tagpuno Jr has been on a hot winning streak, scoring 5 straight victories after enduring two narrow losses in debut matches.
But clearly "El Cazador" was a good learner, as his losses were to top prospects Jonniel Laurente and Daniel Nicolas, and he has been unbeaten since.
Bryan Tamayo enters the ring the more experienced of the two, having scored 8 quality wins, and he also boasts plenty of power.
The tall and rangy fighter has good skills too, and will surely test Tagpuno from the opening bell.
Top prospect Antonio Uy made weight for tomorrow's "Night of Champions" to be held at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque.
The "Crossman "will take on Jay-Ar Diama over 6 rounds in the Light Flyweight 112lb division, and if looks could kill, then we know what to expect tomorrow !
Nguyễn Hoàng Quốc Huy - Ho Chi Minh Team
Huy started boxing back in 2014, and was an immediate success. He was young national champion 2014, national youth medalist 2017, national youth medalist 2018, national club cup medalist 2019, national champion champion 2021, national club cup 2022, and won a bronze medal at the national sports congress 2022.
v
Bùi Văn Nhân - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Nhân started boxing back in 2017, and achieved the bronze medal in the national championships 2023.
tập từ năm 2014, hcv trẻ toàn quốc 2014, hcđ trẻ toàn quốc 2017, hcb trẻ toàn quốc 2018, hcb cúp CLB toàn quốc 2019, hcb vô địch toàn quốc 2021, hcb cúp CLB toàn quốc 2022, HCĐ đại hội TDTT toàn quốc 2022
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Lê Tiến Đạt - Matrix Boxing Gym
Dat won a bronze medal in national youth championship in 2016, a gold medal in national youth championship in 2017, and a gold medal in national youth championship in 2018.
He has had 3 pro fights - VSP Genesis (Loss to SEA Games medallist Le Cong Nghi), followed by two impressive wins at VSP Pro.
v
Nguyễn Tân Trọng - Ho Chi Minh team
Trong commenced boxing in 2017. He was a finalist in the teams championship 2022, the all-city youth tournament 2022, the national youth tournament 2022, and the teams championship 2023.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Great card of international boxing action live from the Flash Ballroom Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque.
Joe Noynay continues his welterweight crusade in the main event, pitted against durable Indonesian visitor Larry Siwu.
Plenty of good locals too, but Bryan Tamayo's clash with Fernando Tagpuno jr will be special.
And hey, keep an eye out for "the Crossman" Antonio Uy - he is going to be really good.
Papua New Guinea Boxer Junior Kauko Raka’s fight against Vietnamese opponent Van Thao Tran is scheduled for the 15th of July next month at the Grand Ho Tram resort and casino in Vietnam.
Raka said his preparations for the fight is going great at the moment, he is currently training with his coach Ephraim Montaru, trainer Nelson John and national coach for the amateur boxers.
“I am having some spurring with Team PNG boxers who are preparing to attend the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands.”
Raka said he will get really good preparations if he goes to the Philippines to train there whilst waiting for his fight.
“I have made commitments to go to the Philippines but in terms of sponsors I’m still yet to secure one to help me travel there to prepare.”
“If I train and do some spurring in the Philippines I will be at my best fit to take up my international match.”
Raka said he is confident to win this fight and that is his main aim as it is the national championships for Vietnam and to him it means it’s the national championship for PNG.
“I’ve watched some of my opponents fights and I’ve seen some of his weaknesses and studied his movements in terms of attack and defense so if I can prepare in the Philippines, I will be able to defeat him.”
“One of my opponent Van Thao Tran’s weakness I have seen is that he does not move a lot in the ring and he moves forward all the time so I am training on how to move back and counter punch on him when he moves forward to attack me; I will move back with my punches and see gaps to swing or stop him,” added Raka.
Raka said so far there is no confirmation from any sponsors yet who have said to help me however the member for Bougainville and Minister Peter Tsiamalili has made a commitment to assist him; also from the CEO for Sports Foundation Albert Veratau who said to look into it.
There is also a company Jomik group of companies in Bougainville who have put their hands up to assist in his travel.
Raka thanked these sponsors especially the Jomik group of companies who assisted his team when they were in Buka with their airfares back to Port Moresby and their continuous support.
VIETNAM - Get ready to be rocked by RAKA !!
Vietnam's boxing star "The Trigger" Tran Van Thao goes toe to toe with Papua New Guinea's hard man
Junior Kauko Raka - the PNG Prodigy !!
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday July 15th
Đỗ Văn Thiện Ngân - Ho Ch Minh Boxing Club
Silver medal winner at the national youth championships in 2018.
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Nguyễn Mạnh Đức - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Started boxing in 2014, Duc won the gold medal in national youth competition of 2016.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Lê Thị Ngọc Hạnh - Matrix Boxing Gym HCMC
Hahn achieved a gold medal national youth champs 2017 and a bronze medal national youth champs 2018.
She made her pro debut VSP Pro Feb 2023.
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Mai Thị Lan - Ho Chi Minh Boxing Club
Lan is a relative newcomer to the sport. She started boxing in 2019, and showed a lot of potential. She has already achieved a bronze medal at the national youth championships in 2022.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
BOUT #2 "VSP PRO" boxing event at VSP Gym
Nguyễn Đạt Việt - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Started boxing in 2020, and has already achieved a bronze medal national youth champ 2022, and a bronze medal at the club championships 2022.
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Lâm Trí Siêu - Matrix Boxing Gym HCMC
Started boxing in 2017. Winner of the silver medal at the HCMC tournament 2022.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Huỳnh Ngọc Yến Phương - Kick Boxing Vietnam
Silver medal national sports festival 2022, Debut in VSP Pro Jul 2022
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Lương Thị Ngoan - HCMC Boxing Club
started boxing in 2000, bronze medal in the national champ 2023
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
23 year old southpaw Dào Văn Quân heads to Ho Chi Minh City this week, ahead of his main bout clash with Matrix Gym gun Phan Minh Quân next Saturday night.
Dào Văn Quân hails from the Hanoi Boxing Academy, and has been training in the sport since 2013.
The Hanoi boxer has shown dramatic improvements since the pandemic, and was suitably rewarded with a bronze medal at last year's national sports festival.
Dào Văn Quân v Phan Minh Quân is one of the most technically intriguing bouts in a great night of boxing set down for next Saturday night in Saigon.
VSP PRO 5 - LIVE PROFESSIONAL BOXING
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Tran Van Thao is probably Vietnam's best known "professional" boxer, and despite the best efforts of the pandemic, has managed to stay active and motivated to further hus successful career.
"The Trigger" beat the Philippines Prince Andrew Laurio by knockout last October, and has since stayed fit sparring and competing with amateurs. Despite the less suitable 4 round format,Thao performed outstandingly at the National tournament earlier this year, getting silver in a closely fought contest with Hanoi boxer Tran Van An.
Thao makes his anticipated return to the pro ranks on July 15th, on an a huge international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino. It is understood that Vietnam lightweight champion Nguyễn Văn Hải will also be appearing on this same show. Both boxers will be pitched against national champions.
Mark John Yap will be representing the Philippines, and after a recent exhibition bout in Ho Chi Minh City, should be in great shape for July 15th.
Fight card announcements soon.
Clarence Breboneria and Bryl Bayogos looked in ominous shape at today's weigh in, ahead of their meeting tomorrow at Mauway Gym.
Both boxers, at just 21 years of age, are highly promising. Bayogos is unbeaten in 4 outings, whilst Breboneria also has 4 wins, and could just as easily be unbeaten in 6 bouts. His losses were extremely close decisions, and it would also be accurate to state that the Elorde product has improved considerably since.
Breboneria has been in rampaging form since last October, devastating opponents with three knockout wins in a row.
In what looks a really open contest over 8 rounds tomorrow, if there is an advantage to be exploited, it may just lie with the power that Clarence Breboneria is capable of producing.
Vietnam - here we come !
The Yap Attack and Head Coach Jetro Pabustan are headed to Ho Tram Vietnam this July, as they look to reinforce the stocks of Mark John Yap on the world scene.
It is expected that the Philippines star will appear on an all international event, and will fight a young top rated fighter from the Middle East.
Familiar faces to VSP followers, Nguyễn Văn Hải and Junior Kauko Raka, will also compete on the Cocky Buffalo show.
Mark John Yap will return to Manila from CDO for sparring in 10 days time, on the back of an impressive exhibition performance in Ho Chi Minh City late last month.
More news breaking soon.
Watch this kid. Just turned 20 years of age, and with two professional wins already under his belt, Lê Tiến Đạt is one of the fastest improvers in Vietnam boxing.
He returns to the ring at VSP Gym next week, and if the young Flyweight gets his way, he will dish out another impressive victory against a quality opponent.
Boxer and master trainer Jetro Pabustan has his charges fit and ready to rumble, for what will be some great fight events, starting this Saturday at the Mauway Gym in Mandaluyong City.
Clarence Breboneria (pictured right) takes on the unbeaten Bryl Bayogos this Saturday, where the main event sees world top 30 Judy Flores pitched against the Predator Jerald Paclar.
But if you want to see "El Cazador" in action - that being the Ferocious Fernando Tagpuno Jr, you will need to wait another week !
Tagpuno appears on a great card scheduled for June 17th.
The "Hanoi Hitman" Nguyễn Văn Hải has been short listed for a big international card that is expected to light up The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino next month.
Hải improved his record to 5-1 with a boisterous win over the high ranked Chinese Xiao Tao Su, and in doing so, became Vietnam's #1 Lightweight performer.
The event at Ho Tram will include boxers from various countries, and is confirmed to include the Philippines Mark John Yap and Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka.The promoter Cocky Buffalo is also in talks with Vietnam's best performed professional "Trigger" Tran Van Thao about competing on this card.
The Grand Ho Tram international boxing event has been set down for July 15th.
Updates soon.
Rumours are strong that Papua New Guinea's premier fighter Junior Kauko Raka may be headed to the sunny shores of Vung Tau this coming July.
The "made from granite" Raka has made no secret that he wants to fight the top international boxers, but those opportunities aren't available at home in Papua New Guinea.
HAVE GLOVES - WILL TRAVEL !
Raka has already won two pro bouts, and taken two losses - but these were outstanding efforts against world rated Roldan Aldea and Mark John Yap.
It is believed that Raka is in talks to take on Vietnam's highest ranked professional fighter, and if so, this story is sure to create big news in that country.
"I love boxing - and I believe in myself and my team. I only want to take on the biggest challenges, and show people that the fighter's from Papua New Guinea can take on the world. We have many kids here with great potential, so my mission is to bring this message to Vietnam"
THE RIDDLER SETS BRAIN TEASER JUNE 17TH
Future star Phan Minh Quân will be fighting at
VSP PRO 5 in Ho Chi Minh City at VSP Gym on
Saturday June 17th.
The Saigon local is known as The Riddler, because of his ability to set traps and ask tricky questions of opponents.
Quân is a former Youth Champion and famously fought Philippines hard man Mark John Yap in an exhibition match in Ho Tram late last year.
Phan Minh Quân made his professional debut win last month in impressive fashion.
Watch The Riddler take on the Journey Man Mark John Yap at the Fortunes of War last December :
Great fight month ahead, and these two villains are ready to create havoc in coming weeks.
Clarence Breboneria takes on the unbeaten Bryl Bayogos on June 10, whilst Fernando Tagpuno Jr has the ominous task of the classy Bryan Tamayo on June 17th. Both of these shape as too close to call contests, but the Elorde boys are already showing killer confidence.
Don't forget VSP PRO will also be shown live from Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam again this month.
Saturday June 17th.
All the latest boxing stories at the VSP Promotions website. Next event is VSP PRO Saturday June 17th.
The full replays of Saturday's show are starting to go up today.
The next event will be VSP PRO 5 on Saturday June 17th.
If you missed any of our fights, you can watch them all on the VSP PROMOTIONS YouTube channel:
The Philippines Mark John Yap shows his poise and experience in his excellent win over Vietnam's national team prospect Nguyễn Hà Minh.
Võ sỹ sinh năm 2000 Đoàn Văn Hiệu đánh dấu màn tái xuất sàn đấu VSP Pro bằng màn trình diễn ấn tượng trước tay đấm 18 tuổi Phan Thanh Kính từng đoạt HCB giải boxing trẻ quốc gia.
Giữ cự ly tốt và tung ra những đòn đấm móc, đòn tay sau chuẩn xác, lợi hại, và suýt chút nữa tìm được đòn knock-out với cú hook trúng cằm đối thủ, Đoàn Văn Hiệu đã ghi điểm trong mắt các trọng tài.
Không bất ngờ khi Đoàn Văn Hiệu được cả 3 trọng tài đều chấm thắng tuyệt đối 40-36. Một chiến thắng tuyệt vời trong ngày trở lại VSP Pro của Văn Hiệu
Thắng chung cuộc 3-0 khi cả 3 trọng tài chấm điểm thắng 39-36, Thái Hoàng Huy đã mở màn sự kiện VSP Pro #4 khá ấn tượng
#Webthethao #VSPPRO4 #VSPboxing
Boss Alejandro Belonguel watches two of his prize students in sparring today at VSP.
Doan Hieu and Mark John Yap were impressive winners on Saturday at VSP PRO, yet found the energy to get back in the ring today for some friendly rounds.
The Philippines visitor Yap heads home tomorrow night, but will return to Vietnam on July 15th for a big pro event in Ho Tram.
HCMC boxer HIỆP, better known as "BABY KONG " scored his debut win at VSP PRO 4 on Saturday night. It was his best performance so far, showing an improved work rate, and selecting a variety of shots on the inside that really impressed the crowd. Hiệp was especially successful with the uppercut, and he kept changing angle to keep his very strong opponent guessing.
Great fight, and looking forward to seeing more of Lê Hoàng Hiệp, and his rival Nguyễn Huỳnh Phúc Tiến, in future VSP PRO events.
Mindanao's Mark John Yap wound back the clock in Ho Chi Minh City tonight, with a brutal display over national team prospect Nguyễn Hà Minh.
Yap was returning from a couple of months break from the sport, celebrating the birth of his first daughter Yuri early this year. It was noted at the weigh-in for the Lightweight 61kg clash, that Yap looked a little soft next to his taller and ripped Vietnam opponent.
The Journey Man was given a warm reception by the crowd, who were divided as to how a pro veteran would match up with the slick Vietnam boxer in a highly paced 4 round format.
Nguyễn Hà Minh is only 20 years of age, but is a highly touted member of the Vietnam team,
He is tall, and boxes with beautiful range, has fast hands, and he seamlessly angles between stances to land counters with ridiculous ease.
The first two rounds were arguably won by the local star. The Philippines Yap pressed constantly, but his timing and distance were a little off, and Minh often punished his enterprise with counters.
Despite being outlanded, Yap was undeterred, and always looked significantly dangerous.
Cracks started to appear in the armour of the Vietnam star in the third, as Yap began to find his range, and the momentum shifted noticeably. The Journey Man was walking through Minh's efforts with impunity, and was really chopping his rival to the body. Yap was relentless, and went "old school" brutal in the final round, where he dropped his Vietnam opponent with sadistic attacks to the torso. Nguyễn Hà Minh stoicism saw him meet the final bell, yet had it been a longer bout, the stoppage was perilously near.
Mark John Yap was simply devastating tonight, and produced such a dominant performance on foreign soil, that he was hailed as the winner by unanimous decision.
It was a credible showing by hot national team member Nguyễn Hà Minh, and he acknowledged that Yap's strength and experience overwhelmed him in the home stretch. He will benefit a lot from his encounter with a hardened professional.
But the big news is - YAP IS BACK !
The evergreen killer from Cagayan de Oro will return to the ring in a big, soon to be announced fight, this coming July.
Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada make great fights, and Saturday's was no different.
Minus the little kerfuffle near the end, where both boys were getting frustrated, and it was a really good contest with plenty of to and fro.
JonJon Estrada is known for his power, and although he showed more patience than usual in the longer duration 10 round bout, he still found time for some signature Wolverine moves.
Ladies and gentlemen - I give you, the very deadly lead left hook !
VSP PRO BOXERS ARE IN THE HOUSE !
Tomorrow night's fighters are starting to arrive for the weigh in for tomorrow's big fights.
Le Thị Ngọc Anh is one of the talented boxers that will be contesting the 57kg Featherweight women's match on the seven bout card.
Two great young prospects lock horns tomorrow in what is sure to be one of the fights of the night.
Le Hoàng Hiệp has been compared to a mini Mike Tyson, and has vowed to put on a dominant display at VSP PRO.
But things might not go so smoothly for the former Russian mob member, as his opponent Nguyễn Huỳnh Phúc Tiến looked in crazy shape at today's face off. This rangy HCMC boxer has been earmarked as one of the big impovers in the local ranks.
GREAT FIGHT !!
Get to VSP Gym tomorrow night and see these killers in person.
Starts at 6pm, but please arrive early.
Girl fights just don't come any better than this!!
Quảng Ngãi million dollar baby Duyên takes on hard hitting Hanoi head mistress Ngọc Anh.
"VSP PRO" live from Ho Chi Minh City at 6pm
Huỳnh Thị Vũ Duyên and Lê Thị Ngọc Anh will go to war at VSP Gym.
Everyone get there and support Vietnam's hottest chicks going at it in a professional match.
NO HEADGEAR !!
VSP Boxing Gym
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Starts at 6pm - but please arrive early.
We are ready to fight! MAKE SOME NOISE!!!
