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
Trần Tấn Quang Đạo có chiến thắng bằng tính điểm trước Nguyễn Khắc Dũng trong trận mở màn sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro 6!
Hiệp 1: Hai võ sỹ nhập cuộc chậm nhưng không khó nhận ra sự chênh lệch về kinh nghiệm, kỹ thuật cũng như thể chất của Trần Tấn Quang Đạo.
Chàng nhân viên văn phòng sinh năm 1991, Quang Đạo tận dụng rõ lợi thế sải tay và tốc độ để làm chủ trận đấu.
Những đòn jab tay trái của Quang Đạo không chỉ vừa ngăn đối thủ vừa ghi điểm mà còn tạo ra combo đòn sau đó kết thúc bằng cú hook phải tay lợi hại. Hiệp đầu tiên nghiêng rõ về Quang Đạo và ở chiều ngược lại Nguyễn Khắc Dũng bộc lộ rõ những sự hạn chế.
Hiệp 2: Kịch bản không thay đổi khi Quang Đạo vẫn tỏ rõ vượt trội với combo đấm 1-2. Không chỉ đấm trúng vùng mặt đối thủ, những đòn bodyshot của Quang Đạo còn khiến Khắc Dũng chật vật chống đỡ ở cuối hiệp.
Hiệp 3: Khắc Dũng chủ động áp sát nhằm tìm cơ hội ra đòn nhưng khi nó chưa mang lại nhiều hiệu quả thì võ sỹ từ Hà Nội liên tục dính đòn.
Phải sau hơn 1 phút đầu tiên Khắc Dũng mới có cú jab chất lượng trúng mặt đối thủ. Sự lỳ lợm của Khắc Dũng, và thể lực cũng có phần đi xuống của Quang Đạo khiến trận đấu biến thành màn cận chiến mà cả hai đều dính đòn từ đối phương.
Hiệp 4: Khắc Dũng tiếp tục duy trì phương án duy nhất giữ thế thủ cao găng (high-guard) áp sát và tìm cú đấm móc. Dù tìm thấy một đầm đón nặng ký trúng mặt Quang Đạo ở giữa hiệp nhưng nó chưa đủ đẻ Khắc Dũng knock-out Quang Đạo. Trong khi đó, dù thể lực đi xuống Quang Đạo vẫn có những cú đấm móc trả đòn, những pha body-shot chất lượng.
Kết quả: 39-37, 39-37, 40-36. Trần Tấn Quang Đạo thắng bằng tính điểm!
All boxers made the weight! Now it's show time! Let's get behind your boxers and make some noise!
6PM at VSP Boxing Gym
5F, 145 Nguyen Du
Trận đấu đầu tiên mở màn cho sự kiện VSP PRO #6 diễn ra lúc 18:00 vào ngày 29/7/2023
Giữa Trần Tấn Quang Đạo và Nguyễn Khắc Dũng
Ngay sau buổi cân kí, Chúng tôi đã phỏng vấn ngay võ sĩ Quang Đạo về việc anh đánh giá đối thủ kì này của anh như thế nào ?
"Tôi nghĩ đối thủ lần này của tôi là một đối thủ có sức mạnh trong mỗi đòn đánh và tôi đoán cũng sẽ là trận đấu khó khăn với tôi sắp tới, nhưng không vì vậy mà khiến tôi lo sợ đối thủ của mình. Cả tôi và anh ta đều đã có lời qua tiếng lại với nhau trên mạng xã hội trước đó và đã có xảy ra 1 chút va chạm trong buổi họp báo nhưng ban tổ chức đã can thiệp và không có điều đáng tiếc nào xảy ra. Tuy nhiên, tôi sẽ cố gắng cống hiến cho khán giả theo dõi trực tiếp một trận đấu mãn nhãn và trên tinh thần fairplay & respect".
Với sở trường là tốc độ và tinh thần chiến đấu không khuất phục anh tin tưởng rằng mình sẽ là người chiến thắng vào trận đấu ngày 29/7
Nói một chút về võ sĩ Khắc Dũng anh đến từ Hà Nội tuy đã tập boxing được vài năm nhưng anh lại không có cơ hội thi đấu, vào tháng trước anh đã đối đầu với Minh Quân một võ sĩ giỏi nhưng rất tiếc vì anh không có thời gian để chuẩn bị tốt cho trận đấu đó.
Nhưng bây giờ hoàn toàn khác. Cơ thể của anh đã sẵn sàng để chiến đấu. Thể lực và kỹ năng cũng đã vượt trội hơn.
Đây là những dấu hiệu cho thấy. Trận đấu này dã rất nóng từ trước khi trận đấu xảy ra. Kết quả ra sao ? ai sẽ là người chiến thắng, sẽ được hai võ sĩ trả lời vào ngày 29/7 tại sự kiện VSP PRO 6.
Không chỉ là nắm đấm, các võ sĩ trẻ tại VSP Pro 6 tỏ ra vô cùng thích thú với "bài học khiêu khích" trên sàn Boxing chuyên nghiệp.
Boxing chuyên nghiệp là gì? Là nơi các võ sĩ kiếm tiền từ chính các trận đấu của mình? Chưa đủ, đó phải là những "show diễn" nơi mỗi cá nhân thể hiện không chỉ năng lực, mà còn là cá tính và sự thích thú khiến khán giả phải kéo đến sân theo dõi họ thi đấu. Đó là điều các võ sĩ góp mặt tại sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro 6 được trải nghiệm với cảm giác thích thú và cả ngượng ngùng trước đám đông.
"Khán giả thích những màn kịch", "Họ thích những màn trình diễn chứ không chỉ là các cuộc đấu tay đôi", ông Lim Song, người sáng lập chuỗi sự kiện VSP Pro phân tích với các võ sĩ ở buổi cân kí VSP Pro 6 chiều ngày 28/7 tại TP. Hồ Chí Minh.
Live from VSP Gym Starts 6pm
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Không giống như Boxing nghiệp dư, nơi vận động viên được trả lương bởi những đội tuyển tỉnh, thành phố hay quốc gia mà họ đang đầu quân tập luyện, cùng với số tiền thưởng dựa trên thành tích thi đấu, các võ sĩ Boxing chuyên nghiệp giống như những người kinh doanh tự do, mà sản phẩm ở đây chính là các trận đấu và hình ảnh của họ.
Trong đó, vai trò của các nhà quảng bá (promoter) là rất quan trọng.
Các nhà quảng bá - hay chúng ta vẫn thường biết tới với tên gọi những "ông bầu" có nhiệm vụ mang về những hợp đồng cho võ sĩ. Hiện tại, trên thế giới các nhà quảng bá sẽ kiếm tiền theo 4 cách chính sau đây.
- Tiền bán vé xem trực tiếp: đây là khoản thu dễ tính toán cụ thể nhất dựa trên giá vé và số lượng vé bán ra qua từng sự kiện.
- Tiền bản quyền truyền hình: tương tự như bán vé trực tiếp, các nhà quảng bá sẽ bán trận đấu cho các đơn vị phát sóng, thu phí từ các khán giả xem truyền hình.
- Tiền tài trợ - quảng cáo từ các nhãn hàng: khi võ sĩ xây dựng được hình ảnh và tên tuổi, nhà quảng bá sẽ tìm kiếm các thương hiệu có nhu cầu tài trợ, hoặc thuê võ sĩ làm đại diện hình ảnh, quảng cáo cho sản phầm.
- Tiền gửi võ sĩ thi đấu: các nhà quảng bá của võ sĩ sẽ kiếm tiền từ việc gửi các võ sĩ ra nước ngoài thi đấu. Lúc này, bên trả tiền là nhà quảng bá đối tác tổ chức sự kiện.
Thế nhưng, với thực tế ở thị trường Việt Nam, các võ sĩ đã có thể kiếm thu nhập từ 4 nguồn trên hay chưa? Liệu có trở ngại nào, từ chủ quan tới khách quan mà họ phải đối mặt để thực sự biến Boxing chuyên nghiệp thành một nghề nuôi sống bản thân hay không? Chúng ta sẽ cùng tìm hiểu với những kì tiếp theo trong tuyến đề tài về Boxing chuyên nghiệp của Webthethao.vn.
Boxing chuyên nghiệp đã không còn quá xa lạ với các khán giả Việt Nam trong những năm gần đây, với việc các đêm thi đấu dần xuất hiện nhiều hơn trong khoảng 2 năm trở lại đây.
Không chỉ còn là những cái tên sao số như Trương Đình Hoàng, Trần Văn Thảo... các võ sĩ phong trào, đội tuyển trẻ các địa phương đã có thêm những cơ hội thi đấu cọ xát với nhau. Cho tới hiện tại, sự khác biệt đã bắt đầu xuất hiện, Lê Tiến Đạt là một trong những cái tên thường xuyên thi đấu tại các sự kiện VSP Pro là những minh chứng rõ ràng nhất cho nhận định này.
VSP Pro 5 đã là lần thứ tư Tiến Đạt thi đấu với bộ luật 4 hiệp của Boxing chuyên nghiệp. Thay vì các tình huống "đồng nhịp" với đối thủ trong từng pha tấn công, Tiến Đạt đã dần có đủ thể lực để thích nghi với việc kéo dài thời gian cho những pha giao tranh với đối thủ, giúp anh có được lợi thế then chốt để giành chiến thắng.
Dù VSP Pro mới trôi qua những sự kiện đầu tiên, các tay đấm quen thuộc của sàn đấu Boxing chuyên nghiệp này đã cho thấy sự thích nghi với từng thay đổi nhỏ, qua từng trận đấu để có được những chiến thắng thuyết phục hơn. Dĩ nhiên, con đường của họ cũng như các tay đấm xuất thân từ Boxing nghiệp dư vẫn còn rất dài, bởi trước mắt họ là các trận đấu 6, 8 hiệp và thậm chí là các trận tranh đai kéo dài 10, 12 hiệp.
Việc xuất hiện tại những sàn đấu như VSP Pro đưa dàn võ sĩ trẻ của Việt Nam có một cái nhìn rõ ràng, tích lũy được những kinh nghiệm cụ thể hơn với bộ luật thi đấu nhà nghề. Cơ sở vững chắc để có thể phát triển sự nghiệp trong tương lai.
**Courtesy of Cocky Buffalo Promotions
Cagayan de Oro son Mark John Yap dominates before a third round stoppage over Bangladesh boxer Hasan Sikdar.
Elorde boxer Yap was originally scheduled to fight a high level opponent here at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, but injuries and other fight card changes meant that featherweight Sikdar stepped up at short notice.
Great job by the Bangladesh boxer to survive early, but Yap's relaxed ring control had his rival constantly on the back foot and under a lot of pressure.
Watch for the change of gears in round three when Trainer Jetro Pabustan tells Yap to put the foot down on the accelerator and put an end to it.
ENJOY !
#cockybuffalopromotions #vbo #proboxing #vietnamboxing
Philippines Ronnie Baldonado just made weight for his Inoue Fulton undercard bout in Japan.
Ronnie Baldonado 53.3kg 16-4
Yoshiki Takei 53.9kg 6-0
Best of luck to both fighters.
Ronnie Baldonado and trainer Jetro Pabustan have touched down in Tokyo in advance of Tuesday night's mega clash between Naoya Inoue and Stephen Fulton.
Baldonado, who many remember for giving Wonder Boy Carl Jammes Martin a torrid battle, takes on unbeaten Yoshiki Takei (6-0)
Takei is a bona fide killer - all 6 wins have come by knockout, but Baldonado is a mad dog with plenty of firepower of his own.
The match will take place at Ariake Arena in "the Monster" Inoue's hometown of Yokohama.
Watch it here live !
Venue: VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Saturday July 29th Start : 6pm
Congratulations
to VSP PRO boxing girl Ngo Ngọc Linh Chi who just picked up Gold in the National Youth tournament.
Linh Chi won the 48kg category for 17-18 years, and despite it being a talent laden weight class, she showed some really good skills that complemented her signature high workrate style of boxing.
The Hanoi based fighter showed huge potential with her successful debut at VSP PRO in February, and it appears the sky is the limit for Ngo Ngọc Linh Chi.
Pretty to watch !
Bout 1 - Super Lightweight 63.5kg
Trần Tấn Quang Đạo v Nguyễn Khắc Dũng
Saturday July 29th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Philippines veteran champion Richard Pumicpic was tagged with the moniker "The Beast" from earliest days :
"a kind of savage supernatural figure, but mostly he symbolizes the violence that potentially exists in the heart of every human."
And that is during the war. Afterwards, Pumicpic is all smiles.
The well traveled Richard Pumicpic will meet the outstanding and unbeaten Alfred Lamptey from Ghana this Saturday night in Dubai.
With 12 wins with 8 knockouts, Lamptey is regarded as a real prodigy in African boxing at only 21 years of age.
But does he have the necessary experience and ring guile to dominate a boxer like Pumicpic?
I seriously doubt it, and this hot prospect from Ghana will need to be on full bore once they let the Beast out of his cage this Saturday night.
India's Faizan Anwar (15-0) weighed in over at 151lb just now.
The Philippines Argie Toquero (13 wins) jumps a weight class tomorrow and registered 148lb on the scales.
Anwar has a very impressive record, but is yet to fight someone the calibre of an "in form" Toquero, so there is the potential for an upset tomorrow night in Dubai.
The match wiill be held at Dubai Studio City.
If this isn't a quality team of killers, then I don't know what is !!
Hitting the hot sands of Dubai this Saturday are three of the Philippines most experienced and dangerous campaigners - Argie Toquero, Donnie Nietes and Richard Pumicpic (flanked by team manager Raoul Navarrete)
Toquero and Pumicpic have been on the sidelines of late, but look in outstanding shape, and each take on unbeaten foreign fighters.
Donnie Nietes appears as the main undercard, and will battle Muhammad Waseem (12-2).
The big fights this Saturday night will take place at Dubai Studio City.
Big thanks go to our friend Mujtaba Kamal for setting this up - a big fan of pinoy boxing.
Best of luck champs !
BOXREC AND VBO ARE NOW A TEAM !!
The boxing world's iconic BOXREC is now the official record keeper for all Vietnam Boxing Organization's (VBO) events.
This is a fantastic news for the growth of the professional sport in Vietnam, and it also creates wider opportunities for boxers from around the world.
Events that have VBO regulatory approval will now be fully documented on BoxRec.
Vietnam's promoters and boxers - you can now start your engines !!
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.
Two of the Philippines best performed boxers prior to the pandemic were Argie Toquero and Richard Pumicpic.
But both of these former world ranked boxers have been devoid of opportunities in recent times, and finally, THE BOYS ARE BACK !
Toquero and Pumicpic are on the way to Dubai, fighting on a huge international card that also features pinoy champ Donnie Nietes.
Richard Pumicpic appears as the main undercard, taking on unbeaten African fighter Alfred Lamptey (12-0)
Argie Toquero jumps a weight class, and is pitched against unbeaten Indian Faizan Anwar (15-0)
VSP Promotions can report that despite the enormity of their tasks, Toquero and Pumicpic are in great shape, and are very good chance to cause big upsets in Dubai.
Sunday July 30th Killer card of fights.
Live from the Flash Grand Ballroom Parañaque.
#vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #elorde #boxingphilippines
*story courtesy VN Express
It took former national boxing champion Nguyen Van Hai just 12 seconds to take down the on-form Abdul Motalib of Bangladesh at the international boxing event WBO Global Prelude.
Before the lightweight (61 kg) fight on Saturday night, Mottalib was in great form with five consecutive wins, including two victories by knockout. Hai, who has won the national championship for 14 consecutive times, also had five wins in six professional fights.
At the official weigh-in before the fight in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province that borders HCMC, Mottalib tried to provoke Hai by standing in front of him and blocking his view during the press conference. But Hai kept his composure.
There was not much to say about the fight as 12 seconds in, Hai threw a powerful and staggering right hook that immediately floored Motalib. The referee stopped the fight and gave a knockout win to Hai. This is his third knockout win after seven professional fights.
Boxers work very hard, but so too do the gentleman that preside over the regulatory frame that keeps our sport vibrant and our fighters as safe as possible.
A big shout out to these four - Vietnam's Lim Song, the Philippines' Richard Clarin, Japan's Tsuyoshi Yasukochi and South Korea's Aaron Jang - strident men who all share a unified vision of creating more opportunities for athletes in their respective countries.
A notable omission is China's Samson Lu, who flew back early, but has been an invaluable and encouraging mentor to Vietnam boxing.
Congratulations
to this group. Yes, put your feet up and have a cold beer. It's well deserved !!
Vietnam will miss you, and look forward to seeing you again and again. !!
#cockybuffalopromotions #TheGrandHoTramStrip #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam #cockybuffalo #vspboxing
The rain was hitting the roof hard at The Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam last night.
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải drops an ATOMIC BOMB !!!
The Philippines Mark John Yap wins with a third round stoppage.
VIETNAM BOXING TONIGHT
Unbeaten Bangladesh boxer Abdul Mottalib (5-0) casts a confident stare down to Vietnam champion Nguyễn Văn Hải (5-1) at yesterday's weigh in at Vũng Tàu Vietnam.
These are the co-main event boxers in a big international card to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino tonight.
The iconic show in Vietnam is sold out, and will have added historical significance.
The heads of regulatory commissions from Japan, the Philippines, China and South Korea will be in attendance, after signing co-operation agreements with the Vietnam Boxing Organization to further this great sport in the region.
#cockybuffalopromotions #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #cockybuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #VSPPromotions
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 "
Philippines Mark "the Journey Man" Yap weighed just inside the 61kg Lightweight limit at today's Vietnam weigh in.
Yap will fight at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino tomorrow night against Hasan Sikder of Bangladesh. He appears on a big international card featuring nine countries, with the two main events showcasing Vietnam champions Nguyễn Văn Hải and Sam Minh Phát.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/2286202895100626
GAB boss Mr. Richard Clarin and VBO Mr. Lim Song sign an historic cooperation agreement to further professional boxing in Vietnam.
The signing aligns the common goals of both countries to make the sport even greater in the region.
Vietnam are in awe of the rich history of boxing in the Philippines, and their vast experience in administration.
The Vietnam fans love the exciting fight style of pinoys, and see them as an essential component of their international events.
#cockybuffalopromotions #TheGrandHoTramStrip #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #cockybuffalo #boxingvietnam
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
Looks like it, but no !
It's the trio of Elorde boys Allie Cañega, Erson Trinidad, and Dann Dacles - ready to rip and tear at the Blow by Blow show tomorrow in Manila.
If looks could kill, these boys will be in jail after tomorrow's event !
Good luck to all the boxers competing tomorrow.
There is a big international event in Vietnam this Saturday night, and the Philippines will be proudly represented by a killer by the name of Mark John Yap.
The Vietnam show will also be iconic in the regard of top boxing countries meeting there to discuss the sport and forge cooperation agreements.
GAB Chairman Richard Clarin is flying out this morning, flanked by entourage Jacky and Rex.
The photographer is well known Philippines film star and model Jetro Pabustan.
VSP wishes you all a safe flight and highly successful trip.
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.
The Wolverine heads to the Esforta Arena Hachioji in Tokyo today, pitted against hot young local prospect Kai Watanabe (9-1).
The Japanese bout will see Estrada jump up a weight class to Super Featherweight, so Watanabe will prove a "Tall" order.
JonJon Estrada is one of the toughest and hardest hitters in Philippines boxing, so he should have his share of fun in there despite the ominous task.
VIETNAM GET READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
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
Saturday July 15th - Book now !!
THE "YAP ATTACK" BACK IN VIETNAM
Philippines fighter Mark John Yap was a recent visitor to VSP, headlining our May event against a future star named Nguyễn Ha Minh.
That was Yap's first hit out since scoring a knockout win in Manila in January, and despite signs of ring rust, all the telltale signs of a very dangerous man were on show.
The Mindanao menace returns to Vietnam next week, and he has mayhem on his mind.
Do not miss seeing this great fighter in Vũng Tàu next week - there will be blood !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions
SỰ TRỞ LẠI MẠNH MẼ
Sau chiến thắng trước đối thủ đến từ Indonesia Heri Purnomo ngày 30/7/2022, đến nay đã gần tròn một năm Sẳm Minh Phát không thượng đài boxing chuyên nghiệp.
Ngày 15/7/2023, Sẳm Minh Phát trở lại sàn đấu gặp đối thủ đến từ Trung Quốc Dian Xing Zhu tại sự kiện boxing chuyên nghiệp WBO Global Prelude. Người chiến thắng ở trận đấu này sẽ có xuất tranh đai WBO toàn cầu.
#ithethaovn #vothuatithethao #boxing #wbo #SamMinhPhat #boxstudio #boxingvietnam #cockybuffalo #vsppromotions #vbo #vspboxing #boxingvietnam
Mark John Yap has proved to be one of the best performed pinoys on the international circuit in recent years, and plans to add to his imposing record on the road in Vietnam this month.
The boxer affectionately dubbed "The Journey Man", and more recently as "Fat Yap", appears on a big show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, amongst a strong lineup of fighters from many different countries.
Yap was impressive in winning in Manila in January, then followed up with a three month break to welcome the birth of his first child Yuri. He has slowly worked back into fight shape, and performed in an exhibition bout in Ho Chi Minh City last month.
And it was trademark Yap !
Despite getting off to a slow start, Mark John Yap proved too physical for national youth boxer Nguyễn Hà Minh, dropping him twice in the final round.
Yap will be looking for an emphatic showing on July 15th, before eyeing off bigger matches later this year.
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vsp #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.
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.
