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
Live from the Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque
Early session from 10am Mains from 2pm
Watch it here live !
Novice boxers and with plenty of upside suitably describe Marklin Itim and Clarence Breboneria, who are perfectly matched at tomorrow's REVOLUTION event.
Both fighters have two wins in the professional ranks, and both have aspirations to have big careers in the sport of boxing.
Marklin Itim clearly has the edge in experience, having competed really well in matches with top opponents like Lorenz Ladrada and Remon Basas.
Clarence Breboneria looked a little conservative in his first three fights, but definitely looked more relaxed in his impressive December stoppage win over Mike Siena. He is also well mentored by the team at Elorde.
This is a 6 round Super Bantamweight clash, and despite the likelihood of being a non stop action affair, expect this one to go to the judges.
This will be one of the most competitive fights of the day.
Enjoy every moment of it !
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
BUENAOBRA AND FRANCISCO MAKE WEIGHT
Southpaw Jason "Manifesto" Buenaobra and Jonathan Francisco face off before they meet again at UKC REVOLUTION tomorrow.
The boys will fight over 8 rounds in the Super Bantamweight division.
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
With near 100 professional fights between them, Leonardo Doronio and Mark John Yap qualify as the two most experienced performers at tomorrow's REVOLUTION event in Parañaque.
"Toto" Doronio has chalked up 18 wins, and was formerly a main sparring partner to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. He was an impressive winner against Jimmy Borbon, before showing all his ring guile in dealing with a very offensive Arnel Baconaje.
Mark John Yap's deeds in Japan prior to the pandemic are legendary. It's accurate to say that he shredded some of that country's very best fighters in perhaps their strongest weight class.
His return to the Philippines with excellent showings against Charly Suarez and Junior Kauko Raka were ominous signs that foreshadow a big 2O23.
These boys are quality, and the 135 works in favour of Doronio. Don’t miss this tomorrow.
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
We got Canada v Estrada #2 coming tomorrow !
Their first clash was fight of the year, and it's on again, as Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada made weight just moments ago.
These two killers go at it in a "no place for the faint hearted" featherweight war tomorrow in Parañaque City.
Both fighters approach tomorrow's clash brimming with confidence, having executed stoppage wins at their most recent appearances.
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada is especially adept in this department, and some would say an expert.
He has put opponents to the canvas in 14 of his 15 victories !! Ouch !!
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Two of the most promising young boxers in the Philippines got a surprise visit from the King's Warrior Charly Suarez earlier today.
Jerald Into and Weljon Mindoro are both improving boxers on a steep learning curve, but have been outstanding in their ring performances so far. They also show all the attributes of excellent fundamentals provided by the hard working coaches at Quibors Boxing Gym.
Into is a tall southpaw lightweight, who is unbeaten in 7 fights. His most recent performance was a really impressive showing, stopping the experienced Monico Laurente in the 4th round.
Middleweight Weljon Mindoro has been nothing short of outstanding in his short career, also unbeaten, and scoring 10 knockouts in his 10 wins thus far. The youngster also has experience sparring with Olympic medallist Eumir Marcial, and it is pretty clear that "Triggerman" is running out of opposition at home.
It is hoped that both these top prospects will get an opportunity to show their wares in Vietnam in 2O23.
Charly Suarez will begin training soon as he has an important assignment in Australia on March 17th. The King's Warrior takes on Australia's best Paul Fleming, who with a record of 28 and 0, is no easy task !
Then again, beating Charly Suarez is no simple feat either !!
Anton Maglinte stars in one of the early bouts at Monday's REVOLUTION event in Parañaque.
The Manila based southpaw takes on debutant Raizen Jay Dela Fuente, a fighter with lots of amateur experience.
Maglinte comes into the contest with two fights under his belt, and despite those being defeats, it's notable that he did some good things against promising boxers Noriel De Chavez and Carlo Diaz.
Both of these bouts were highly competitive, and it will be interesting to see what improvements that "Pretty Boy" Maglinte can bring to his stoush with Dela Fuente.
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Par
Sydney Australia Friday March 17th
*special thanks to Pareng B.Vlog for the awesome video and support toward Philippines boxers.
This has all the makings of a spectacular main event.
Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado has been training like a demon in Manila, and is promising a torrid welcome for visiting Mindanao boxer - Sanman's Ben Mananquil.
Mananquil, who is reverently known as "The Nightmare" has looked great in two outings since the pandemic, with a 4th round stoppage win over Crison Omayao, before losing to unbeaten South African star Phumelele Cafu, who was rated #11 in the world. The Nightmare did some good work early in that match, but it's fair to say that he was stylistically unsuited to his fellow southpaw opponent, and he is likely to have the ideal dance partner in Baldonado.
But this kid Baldonado is excitement plus, a skilled boxer that really knows how to turn up the heat on opponents.
Jong Jong has got great hands, lots of firepower, and you just know he has a real talent for putting butts on the canvas.
Just think back to his clash with hot prospect Carl Jammes Martin, who had lots of issues with this firebrand, and met the floor in the early stages of their battle.
Ronnie Baldonado is back to his proper weight class for this main event clash, and if his blazing fists get their way, the Nightmare maybe heading the way of his heralded rival Ben Mananquil.
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
GREAT FIGHT.
Jonjon Estrada does fight week better than most.
He also does remorseless acts of violence pretty damn well too.
14 Knockouts in his 15 wins sends a frightening message as to how he likes to get the job done.
Blunt force trauma and maniacal bludgeoning !
This is the life of the Wolverine.
JonJon Estrada v Pablito Canada
6 rounds Featherweight 126lb
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
The brand of warfare comes in many shapes, sizes and colours.
The Elorde team are greeting the new year in style, thanks to the fantastic support from Mr. Raoul Navarrete and the talented team at Be Athletic.
While modeling is their part time job, for these boys pictured, dispensing HURT is their full time pursuit in the ring.
From left:
Claudevan Sese, Malfred Majadas, Jason Buenaobra, Erson Trinidad, Donald Laurejas, Pedro Taduran, Mark John Yap and Jahzeel Trinidad.
Looking good boys !
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
One of Australia's most colourful and entertaining fighters is also one of that country's BEST EVER.
Paul Fleming 28-0 will take on Philippines freak talent Charly Suarez in Sydney on March 17th.
The indigenous star known as SHOWTIME has got it all.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/695818145579601
Claudevan Sese was a late inclusion for the upcoming REVOLUTION event at the expense of the injured Giovanni Escaner.
Sese already looks in demonic shape, and at 128lb, is only 6lb away from the super bantamweight limit of 122lb.
That's 6lb, and we are 6 days out. Easy work !
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
*story courtesy Manila Standard
Former Olympian and still unbeaten pro boxer Charly Suarez faces a fellow undefeated opponent in Paul Fleming of Australia in what could be the toughest stumbling block to his world title dream.
The showdown between the two undefeated fighters will be held in Australia on March 17, with multiple super featherweight 130lb titles on the line, including the International Boxing Federation Intercontinental, World Boxing Association Oceania, World Boxing Council Asian Boxing Council and the International Boxing Organization Intercontinental belts.
“This will be the biggest fight in Australia this year,” said Robert Hill, Suarez’s promoter.
“Paul Fleming is Showtime, and he is facing the best boxer I have seen from the Philippines — point blank,” he added.
Suarez, who has 18 wins with 8 knockouts, is still fresh from his conquest of the International Boxing Federation Asia junior lightweight with a technical knockout win over Defry Palulu of Indonesia at the Grand Ho Tram Hotel in Vietnam last Dec. 10.
Two months earlier, the many-time Southeast Asian Games champion decisioned compatriot Carlo Magali to successfully defend the World Boxing Association Asia Super Featherweight title.
“Paghahandaan namin ito ng maayos. Magandang opportunity ‘pag nakuha namin ito” said Suarez’s coach and manager, Delfin Boholst.
Hill said Suarez was earlier being pitted against Japan’s top-rated Super Featherweight Yoshimutsu Kimura for the IBF Asia title, but the Japanese was knocked out in a non-title bout last week in Tokyo, hence, the focus was moved to Fleming.
Suarez’s exploits in the ring was also recognized by the Philippine Army, which promoted him to Private First Class for his achievements last year, including being named Boxer of the Month by the WBA Asia.
No less than Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., pinned the new rank on Suarez in a ceremony held at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Jan. 13.
As an amateur, Suarez won three golds — two in lightweight (2011 Jakarta, 2019 Manila) and one in the featherweight (2009 Laos) — and one bronze (2017 Kuala Lumpur) at the Southeast Asian Games. He also competed at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he dropped a split decision to the unbeaten IBF world champion Joe Cordina.
Paul Fleming of Australia is also a man of many accomplishments. The indigenous star is a former esteemed amateur and Olympian, and is undefeated in 28 professional fights.
Some guys have reason to be impatient - these Elorde boys say the hard work's already been done and they are ready to put on a show - NOW !
Well, hey, we still have a week to go !
Promising breathtaking performances at the REVOLUTION show in Parañaque are the pictured killers Ronnie Baldonado, Jetro Pabustan, Mark John Yap and Clarence Breboneria.
Patience is a virtue boys, bottle it for one more week !
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Manila's Pablito Canada had a career record that included a run of losses, but all against the big dogs, and they were bouts where he was responsible for some great performances.
So when he faced JonJon Estrada, he knew he was facing a dangerous yet flawed fighter, and it was a match that he was super confident of winning.
Estrada v Canada was a slugfest, and in spite of Pablito reversing his fortunes and putting the Wolverine in trouble, he ultimately fell for the trap of going toe to toe with a knockout artist.
Canada was quick to make amends, travelling to the backyard of hot Mindanao prospect Michael Casama, and stopping the unbeaten boxer in the 8th round.
Pablito Canada now turns his eyes to the Wolverine, and feels he has unfinished business with the man with two fists of iron.
This will be a mega fight.
Both boxers are predicting an early night for their opponent.
Pablito Canada v JonJon Estrada
6 rounds Featherweight 126lb
UKC REVOLUTION 2O23
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1240692073325093/
JonJon Estrada meets Pablito Canada for the second time at UKC REVOLUTION 2O23 next Monday.
Their first fight was one of the most exciting of the year, with Canada dropped multiple times, and Estrada significantly wobbled. To make things even more interesting, Pablito Canada has rebounded since with an outstanding knockout win over the previously unbeaten Michael Casama. Canada has chased Estrada to avenge their initial meeting, and is confident of reversing the result.
The Wolverine has achieved cult like status because of his stalking predatory style, and his remorseless bludgeoning of opponents. His record of 14 knockouts in 15 wins bellows a cautionary tale.
So JonJon, any words to your opponent before your upcoming match ?
"Yes. Wear a crash helmet !"
Nice advice Mr. Estrada.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/5770077586363099
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Nation’s pride in professional boxing, the unbeaten (14-0-0) Charly “King’s Warrior” Suarez paid a courtesy call on GAB Chairman Atty. Richard S. Clarin at Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Office in Makati City.
The PH Army boxer Suarez won his fight against Indonesian Defry Palulu last December 10, 2022 in Vietnam for the vacant IBF Asia Super Featherweight Title by a Technical Knock-Out in the 2nd Round of a 12-Round bout.
Suarez (IBF no. 8 ) is slated to fight against a tough opponent Australian champion Paul Fleming (IBF no. 13) who has a record of 28-0-1. The clash of both undefeated boxers will be held in Australia on March 17, 2023.
Chairman Clarin personally praised the multi-awarded Suarez for his unblemished record. Knowing that every boxer who fights abroad has individual specific issues, Chairman Clarin pointed out that, among other assistance, GAB, through the GAB Legal Division headed by Atty. Ermar Benitez, is more than willing to provide legal support especially with contract negotiations.
Suarez openly shared his experiences in professional boxing and very much appreciate the dedication of GAB in coming up with fair contract agreement for fights abroad, simplification of document processing, protection of boxers by fair matchmaking, and provision for other benefits to professional boxers.
Chairman Clarin concluded the meeting with words of encouragement to the boxing champ with assurance of full support to all Filipino boxers here and abroad.
Top class international campaigner Mark John Yap has arrived in Manila, and his first stop, after Jollibee, was to meet up with old friends at Elorde Gym in Parañaque.
Yap was joined by sharpshooters Ronnie Baldonado and Jetro Pabustan in a gym session yesterday afternoon.
The three bisaya talking bad boys will be starring at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 at the end if this month.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
This just got made !!!!!!
Yes, it's official - Philippines best Charly Suarez will take on Australia's best Paul Fleming in a showdown for the IBF intercontinental, WBA Oceania and WBC Asia titles. The iconic bout will take place in Sydney on March 17th.
A win for either fighter will likely catapult them into a world title mandatory position. Both fighters are unbeaten, both are former Olympians, and both are blessed with supernatural hand and foot speed. Indigenous prodigy Paul Fleming was responsible for the "Fight of the Year" in Australia in 2022, and the man known as Showtime is peerless when it comes to non stop action.
To counter the claims of the Aussie, Charly Suarez has been on an ominous run of 10 wins in the last two years, all against quality opponents. Tellingly, he has barely broken a sweat in his rankings surge, and lost few, if any, rounds.
This is a HUGE FIGHT for both Australia and the Philippines, and a dominant performance by Suarez will certainly put the world on notice.
CHARLY SUAREZ FIGHT ANNOUNCEMENT
Watch this space - big news breaking later today.
This is HUGE !!!!!!!
Exciting news is that of the very late inclusion of super bantam prospect Claudevan Sese.
The fighter dubbed Mr. Heart Throb was called in to replace the classy Giovanni Escaner, who unfortunately withdrew with injury.
Despite the very short time to prepare, Claudevan was quick to seize the opportunity, and will face Batangas pug Rodel Sunquit.
Sese was one of a team of five Philippines fighters that made waves in Vietnam in late 2019 before the pandemic struck. That squad included Charly Suarez, Jenel Lausa, Virgel Vitor and Gretel De Paz, and Claudevan Sese was responsible for putting on one of the most exciting performances of the night. This promotional footage was taken just days prior to his Vietnam bout.
The closest thing Manila has to a modern day super hero is right now on a blood lust, and he is counting the days for his ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 at the end of this month.
The Wolverine is back, and is already in what appears to be menacing shape, all set to face a previous and very determined foe - Pablito Canada.
Canada pulled off an outstanding knockout performance last start against the unbeaten Michael Casama, and is confident about repeating the dose with JonJon Estrada. The tall and rangy fighter considered himself unlucky when he previously tackled the Wolverine, and has been desperate to make amends ever since.
JonJon Estrada remains unimpressed by the rejuvenated Pablito Canada.
"I have trained hard to make it a great fight, and I will be doing my very best to win."
It could be argued that Canada was the victim of the wrong game plan when these two featherweights met previously.
In what was likely the "fight of the year", Pablito Canada decided to go toe to toe rather than box with the shorter Estrada. This proved to be his undoing, despite the fact that he undoubtedly has power, as he emphasized with the Casama stoppage.
So are we likely to see another trench warfare between Estrada and Canada ?
"I will come forward because that is my style. I love to bang, and if Pablito wants to also, it's perfect with me !
I promise to make the match exciting for the fans, and I love to make the big knockouts. Everyone will see the Wolverine in the ring very soon. I'm ready to hunt and kill!" offered the quietly spoken, but brooding JonJon Estrada.
Hard to imagine this one going the distance - Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada are both predicting KNOCKOUT.
Don't miss this one, its possibly the bout of the day.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
VSP Promotions is a company under VSP Group. Our parent company, in cooperation with Korea Olympics Committee, Korea Cycling, and Ministry of Sports Culture and Tourism of Vietnam sponsored USD 15,300 for training of Vietnam's natuonal cycling team. In 2023, VSP will continue to support Vietnam's Olympic dream!
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#vietnamolympic #vsppromotions #Olympics #cycling #vsp #sponsorship #olympicdream #kirin
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
UKC REVOLUTION 2023 FULL FIGHT CARD
The last time JonJon Estrada met Pablito Canada, the short and violent exchange laid claims to being the most exciting fight of the year.
The Wolverine was at his bombastic best, dropping the rugged Canada three times in the opening round. Pablito did an amazing job to survive to the bell !
Round two started in similar fashion, with a beserk Wolverine trying to put his taller opponent to the sword. But then the tide turned.
Pablito Canada landed a killer shot wobbling Estrada, and in the blink of the eye, he had the aggressor wearing wobbly boots. Canada looked like stealing a victory from the jaws of defeat.
But then !
Estrada lands a supernatural body shot out of desperation, putting Canada down, and ending the seesawing exchange.
Canada was philosophical after the match, knowing how close he was to victory, and expressed his wish to do it all over one more time. He was sure if he had changed his tactics, the result could have been very different.
Pablito Canada recently ventured to Mindanao to take on the outstanding and unbeaten 8 and 0 Michael Casama. Redemption ? You bet !
The vengeful Canada knocked out his opponent in the 6th round, and immediately turned his attention to Manila.
"I want JonJon Estrada!"
Well Pablito, you have got your wish !
Expect Estrada v Canada #2 to be an epic!
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
VSP FIGHT NIGHT SERIES #2
Come VSP PRO Sign up now:
https://forms.gle/9MwSnSDHzJR2r6VL7
#VSPBoxing #Sparring #Trainingdays #Boxing #gym #Vietnamboxing #proboxing #inpiration
When we enlisted @anhnquan to fight against @markjohn_yap on an exhibition match during #FortunesOfWar event at #grandhotram, we wondered if this Vietnamese debutant can even survive the first 2 rounds against a veteran boxer such as Mark John Yap who has had 48 professional fights with 31 wins and 50% KO rate! Yap also held OPBF champion title 3 times! The result was completely unexpected as Quan turned the table around and often stalked the former champion around the ring. This kid has got talents! See the fight on our YouTube channel and tell us what you think!
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https://youtu.be/AAKLQnYchVM
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#vsppromotions #fortunesofwar #Boxingvietnam #boxing #inspiration #nevergiveup #prey #proboxing #grandhotram
29m
Philippines' greatest boxer Charly Suarez recently secured the IBF Asia belt, and by defeating Indonesia’s top rated Defry Palulu (WBC Asia champion) he was elevated to #8 in the world ranking by the International Boxing Federation.
Suarez has progressed through the professional ranks at breakneck speed, winning 14 in a row, and picking up WBA, IBF and RP National belts in the process. He is also now ranked at #4 in the latest OPBF rankings.
Suarez will look to defend his IBF title, and was originally mooted to meet Japan's top rated Super Featherweight Yoshimutsu Kimura.
Kimura was viewed as a solid offensive fighter with poor defense, and not a serious challenge for Suarez. This viewpoint proved accurate when Kimura was knocked out last week in a non title bout in Tokyo.
The focus has now moved to a fighter that VSP are a huge fan of - the unbeaten Australian champion Paul Fleming.
The proud indigenous prodigy dubbed "Showtime" has an amazing record of 28 and 0 with 18 knockouts, and brings an electric brand of high octane energy to the ring that fans just love.
Fleming also holds IBF, WBA, WBC and IBO regional belts, and like the King's Warrior, is gunning for a world title shot.
Sounds perfect !
Check out Charly Suarez and all the VSP Promotions fights at :
Plenty of good young prospects will be on show at REVOLUTION this month, and if you are looking for great fight action, you need go no further than Laurejas v Gajana.
These two unbeaten Lightweights had impressive starts to their careers last year, and are looking to carry on the good work on January 30th.
Donald Laurejas was a quality amateur before going pro late last year, scoring two tradesman like wins.
This 20 year old orthodox boxer is tall, and at 5 feet 10, he is learning to apply his range more effectively. The Elorde product with the ring name "Tough Guy" showed good patience in his first two wins, and based on the quality of his training partners, it's likely that Laurejas will show big improvement in his upcoming clash.
Jonathan Gajana at only 19 years of age still has the training wheels on, but has a ton of ability.
The Manila based orthodox debuted with a very stop start win against Eric Tolosa, but returned to the ring in August looking a different fighter. It was a much more dominant display from the opening bell, chopping up debutant Iresh Alejandre in the first round. It was only a glimpse of the boy known as Tan-Tan, but wow, he did look good !
Plenty of debate on who takes this one, as both these Lightweights have so much upside, and it will really be interesting to see if Gajana can storm the defensive fortress of Laurejas.
UKC 2023 REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Gotta love this match up !
This is the main event at UKC REVOLUTION.
Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado is bringing those magical hands to Manila for a fire fight with Sanman's Ben Mananquil.
Mananquil aka The Nightmare has looked great in two outings since the pandemic, with a 4th round stoppage win over Crison Omayao, before losing to unbeaten South African star Phumelele Cafu, who was rated #11 in the world. The Nightmare did some good work early in that match, but it's fair to say that he was stylistically unsuited to his fellow southpaw opponent, and he is likely to have the ideal dance partner in Baldonado.
And this kid Baldonado, well he just brings it !
He's got great hands, lots of firepower, and you just know he has the love of putting opponents on the canvas.
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
GREAT FIGHT.
Jackson Jon England and Paul Fleming are two of Australia's elite 130lb fighters, and what shaped up as a great fight on paper, ended up bringing the roof down !
These two champions threw the kitchen sink at each other for 10 consecutive rounds, earning them "Fight of the Year" status in Australia.
The win propelled former Olympian Paul Fleming to 28 and 0, and bestowed him with WBA, WBC and IBF regional titles.
Interestingly, there is another very talented 130lb fighter in the Philippines by the name of Charly Suarez, also a former Olympian, and a recent winner of the IBF Asia belt.
He sits on 14 and 0, and despite his relative inexperience as a professional, the King's Warrior casts a simple message across the oceans:
"MR. FLEMING, WE ARE READY. LET'S GET IT ON!"
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/860942661904951
Life throws us some challenges. Whether you think it is fair or not, the reality is the same. You either get up and continue or you blame others for the misfortune and give up. If you choose to get up and fight, you will know what champions decide to do each and everyday. You become a champion when you rise to the challenges despite the pain. Have a good week ahead.
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#vsppromotions #VSPBoxing #inspirational #nevergiveup #boxingtraining #champions #boxingvietnam
Jetro "the Silent Operator" Pabustan is looking sharp and ready to start the new year with a "BANG BANG" this month in Manila.
Jetro, a former regional belt holder and WBO world title contender, is working overtime and looking towards bigger opportunities in 2023.
"I know I can be a champion again, and I would love to get the chance to fight for a world strap once more.
I truly believe I am a better and stronger boxer than I was before. In 2O23, if any good offer comes I will be ready!"
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Cagayan de Oro and the hills of Bukidnon are fabled for producing some of the best fighters ever seen in the Philippines.
Mark John Yap has been an outstanding international performer in recent years, most particularly in the tough playgrounds of Japan where he won 8 on end and picked up three regional belts.
The CDO prodigy has been working hard over the new year (pictured here with another top boxer and CDO boy Joseph Ambo) in preparation for the UKC REVOLUTION event at the end of this month.
Yap put on an exemplary display to beat Papua New Guinea's best Junior Raka, before starring in an exhibition series in Vietnam in December. Lack of fight opportunities during COVID conspired against the Mindanao boxer, but it is rumoured that he is already in great shape for his first hit out for 2023.
And a word of advice for any upcoming opponents of Mark John Yap - this dog is a different breed, and the bite is way worse than the bark !
Yap Yap Snap Snap
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Monday January 30th
