LE HOANG HIEP

LE HOANG HIEP

Young Blood

Super Bantamweight, 122 lbs (55 kg)

Age :

22


Height :

163

cm


Stance :

Orthodox


Region :

NAM DINH


Country :

VIETNAM


Record : PRO DEBUT


Record :

2

Wins

(

KO)

/

4

Loss

/

Draws

Young Blood, Thug Life, Saigon Psycho, Street Vigga - Russian born Hiep goes by many names, but they all point to a central truth. This young Viet is equal parts crazy brave and crazy mad ! But he can fight too ! Competing with grown men in amateur tournaments when just a teen, Le Hoang Hiep showed loads of potential, but unfortunately the pandemic and the closure of all Vietnam gyms halted that potential growth. Temporarily at least !

Prior to the pandemic, Leo Hoang Hiep showed that he has the makings of a good pro. He boasts plenty of speed and power, and he also showed good timing in high level amateur bouts that he contested. And the guy is super tough.!

Gold medal of HCM youth championship in 2018

LE HOANG HIEP

In VSP Promotions

LE HOANG HIEP

In the news

TWO YEARS AGO ALREADY !!
November 17, 2024

TWO YEARS AGO ALREADY !!

Bit of nostalgia here, but this FORTUNES OF WAR was an extremely fun event (despite the many dramas) and well worth revisiting. And you will see that there are lot's of familiar names on this historic fight card.

The Vietnam 🇻🇳 team was spearheaded by Dinh Hong Quân, a guy that had been on a winning run and was defending an IBF Title, but he was having lots of trouble with his weight in the lead up. He even collapsed at one stage and had to be resuscitated at one point !
We had top young prospects Lê Hoàng Hiep and Phan Minh Quân, who fought out of their skins against international pro boxers with more than 70 wins between them ! 
Nguyễn Văn Hải is obviously a legend on the local scene but had been inactive, so he was a bit of a "query" inclusion - yet he produced a memorable performance that culminated in two dramatic knockdowns.
But even more amazing was the debut of another Vietnam kid Thai Hoang Huy - this guy had never even boxed (he was a muay thai student that loved the idea of being a boxer !) And he went in with an opponent that had 14 knockouts in 15 wins - BIG BALLS !!
Suffice to say, the Vietnam 🇻🇳 team had a great experience and a lot of fun at this show - it was held at the beautiful Grand Ho Tram Resort in the coastal area of Vung Tau.

The visiting international team?
Well - some crazy talent on that side of the fence !

Philippines 🇵🇭 - Charly Suarez, Mark John Yap, Arnel Baconaje, Jetro Pabustan and Jon Jon Estrada. 
These guys share plaudits as multiple national and regional title holders, with the unbeaten Suarez currently on the precipice of a world title.

Indonesia 🇮🇩 - Paisal Panjaitan - a really top unbeaten prospect who is now #2 in his country.
Defry Palulu - an Indonesia #2 and WBC belt holder.

South Korea 🇰🇷 - Chan Ho Song - an unbeaten 12-0 guy with blazing hands and a World Youth champ.

Thailand 🇹🇭 - Anuson Thonglueang - a top youth prospect with only one loss in 14 bouts, and who currently sits at #2 rated Welterweight in Thailand. 

Thanks for making this FORTUNES OF WAR a very memorable event boys, you put on a thrilling and entertaining show for everyone that was lucky enough to be there to see it.
VSP wish you continued luck and enjoyment in your boxing adventures ahead.

PS. the main event between Dinh Hong Quân 🇭🇰 and Arnel Baconaje 🇵🇭 was watched by more than 2 million people online ! 

https://youtu.be/wtvhUrz5EVg?si=wFMeYF-L41LBBD7p
VSP PRO YOUNG GUNS READY TO RUMBLE
October 7, 2023

VSP PRO YOUNG GUNS READY TO RUMBLE

VSP PRO has unearthed lots of hot prospects this year, and three of those that have shone will get their first taste of international competition tomorrow.

Phan Minh Quân, Le Hoàng Hiệp and Lê Tiến Dat all made weight today, and have significant bouts in South Korea on Sunday.

Quân v Uzbekistan   Hiệp v Philippines Dat v South  Korea   so we are hoping for a big day for Vietnam and our boxers!!

Check this page tomorrow  - we will stream the fights live.

VSP PRO STARS HEAD TO KOREA !
October 5, 2023

VSP PRO STARS HEAD TO KOREA !

VSP PRO young guns Lê Tiến Đạt Phan Minh Quan, Le Hoang Hiep are on their way to Korea tonight!  

Matrix coach Thanh will be accompanying them as they will face their toughest challenge yet!

The boys will face tough opponents from Korea, Uzbekistan, and the Philippines at Pochun City, just outside of Seoul.  

Cheer for them as they will be fighting for the pride of Vietnam!!  

The fight will be free live on YouTube.  More details to follow.

October 8, Saturday 11AM Vietnam Time.  

#vsppro #vspboxing #vietnamboxing #VBO #matrix #challenge #koreaboxing

BABY KONG HITS WINNING FORM
September 5, 2023

BABY KONG HITS WINNING FORM

VSP PRO has already showcased some excellent boxers this year, and what has been most exciting, is the improvements that many of the Vietnam fighters have brought to the ring when they have competed more than once.

But the man known as "Kong" - Le Hoang Hiep -  is one Vietnamese fighter that really stands out !

After suffering a "controversial" loss early this year, Hiep has been simply outstanding since scoring two electric wins at VSP PRO.  And there are all the positive signs that this fan friendly boxer is sure to win many more in the near future.

Hiep works with former World ranked super middleweight Ben Mcculloch in this video at VSP Gym.

https://www.facebook.com/vspgym/videos/579904374166168

LE HOANG HIEP WINS AT VSP PRO 6
August 1, 2023

LE HOANG HIEP WINS AT VSP PRO 6

Another great night at the fights in Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday.

Many impressive performances, including that of "Young Blood" Le Hoàng Hiệp.

Baby Kong didn't have it all his own way, but put on a great display of boxing to sweep the rounds. Hiệp showed that if you can't out muscle a very strong opponent, then clever boxing with "punches in bunches" will certainly do the trick.

It was the second stunning win in a row for the HCMC based killer.

Fight 4 Winner
July 29, 2023

Fight 4 Winner

Lê Hoàng Hiệp thắng bằng tính điểm trước Nguyễn Ngọc Thắng ở hạng 55kg sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro 6!

Hiệp 1: Tay đấm trẻ ngổ ngáo Lê Hoàng Hiệp tiếp tục thể hiện phong cách không lẫn vào đâu được trên sàn VSP Pro. Anh suýt chút nữa tìm được cú móc trái trúng đích nặng ký ngay đầu trận.

Những cũng rất nhanh Nguyễn Ngọc Thắng với lợi thế sải tay, chiều cao và tốc độ di chuyển đã đáp trả không kém phần máu lửa. Ngọc Thắng đã có 1 đòn tay sau rất nặng trong tình huống ép được Hoàng Hiệp vào ring. Còn Hoàng Hiệp có 2 cú móc trái như búa bổ khiến đối thủ choáng váng.

Hiệp 2: Hạ thấp trọng tâm và chủ động áp sát đối thủ trước khi tung ra combo đòn móc bằng cả hai tay, Hoàng Hiệp cho thấy sự hiệu quả tối đa với phương án này. Ít nhất đã có 3 tình huống những cú móc trái rất nặng ký của Baby Kong Hoàng Hiệp đã ghim trúng mặt Ngọc Thắng.

Hiệp 3: Những bước di chuyển của Ngọc Thằng càng trở nên kém linh hoạt trong khi Hoàng Hiệp tiếp tục lầm lũi dồn ép đối thủ vào ring.Những cú móc sườn hoặc đấm nhứ bằng tay phải của Hoàng Hiệp và sau đó kết thúc bằng pha móc trái nặng ký đã khiến Ngọc Thắng choáng váng.

Hiệp 4: Ngọc Thắng hoàn bế tắc trong việc tìm ra cách hóa giải đòn của Hoàng Hiệp.Những tình huống vùng lên, say đòn của Ngọc Thắng ở giữa hiệp không giúp anh đảo chiều trận đấu. Ở phút thi đấu cuối cùng của hiệp đấu, Hoàng Hiệp có cú móc trái trúng phần thái dương khiến Ngọc Thắng khuỵu xuống và trọng tài phải đếm tới 9 với võ sỹ này.

Dù Ngọc Thắng ra dấu xin đánh tiếp nhưng may mắn cho anh trận đấu chỉ còn hơn chục giây nên kịp tránh được trận thua knock-out.

Kết quả: 39-36, 40-35, 39-36. Lê Hoàng Hiệp thắng bằng tính điểm.

#webthethao #boxing #VSPBoxing #lehoanghiep

"VSP PRO" VIETNAM COMING THIS SATURDAY
July 23, 2023

"VSP PRO" VIETNAM COMING THIS SATURDAY

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

LE HOANG HIỆP A CROWD PLEASER AT VSP PRO
May 30, 2023

LE HOANG HIỆP A CROWD PLEASER AT VSP PRO

HCMC boxer HIỆP,  better known as "BABY KONG " scored his debut win at VSP PRO 4 on Saturday night. It was his best performance so far, showing an improved work rate, and selecting a variety of shots on the inside that really impressed the crowd. Hiệp was especially successful with the uppercut, and he kept changing angle to keep his very strong opponent guessing.

Great fight, and looking forward to seeing more of Lê Hoàng Hiệp, and his rival Nguyễn Huỳnh Phúc Tiến, in future VSP PRO events.

BABY KONG HAS THAT STAR POWER
May 27, 2023

BABY KONG HAS THAT STAR POWER

Two great young prospects lock horns tomorrow in what is sure to be one of the fights of the night.

Le Hoàng Hiệp has been compared to a mini Mike Tyson, and has vowed to put on a dominant display at VSP PRO.

But things might not go so smoothly for the former Russian mob member, as his opponent Nguyễn Huỳnh Phúc Tiến looked in crazy shape at today's face off. This rangy HCMC boxer has been earmarked as one of the big impovers in the local ranks.

GREAT FIGHT !!

Get to VSP Gym tomorrow night and see these killers in person.

Starts at 6pm, but please arrive early.

WE WAITING FOR THE "BIG BANG" BABY  !
May 23, 2023

WE WAITING FOR THE "BIG BANG" BABY !

Le Hoang Hiep is counting the hours before he returns to the ring at VSP PRO this Saturday night at VSP Gym.

Asked for his prediction on his upcoming match, the Russki Viet was excited and confident  :

"Tell that boy to bring his pillow  - he is going to sleep !"

VSP PRO returns to brighten Saigon Saturdays  !!

Live sports entertainment event

Saturday May 27th   Starts 6pm

VSP Boxing Gym

147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

"I AM VIETNAM'S KING KONG"  says HIEP LE !
May 17, 2023

"I AM VIETNAM'S KING KONG" says HIEP LE !

Russki gang figure turned boxer Le Hoang Hiep is set to create havoc at VSP PRO next Saturday in HCMC.

"They cheated me last time - everyone saw that I took that Hanoi boy to school. He was even crying because I showed him up.

So next week, the judges can rest because I'm going to VSP PRO to KO whoever they give me to fight. I don't care who !

Baby Kong is back !!!!!"

VSP PRO  Live sports entertainment event

Saturday May 27th   Starts 6pm

VSP Boxing Gym

147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

THE RETURN OF BABY KONG !!!!!!!
May 15, 2023

THE RETURN OF BABY KONG !!!!!!!

Gorilla ass is back !

Watch Le Hoàng tear it up at the VSP PRO show

Saturday May 27th

Watch all the action live here at VSP Gym

147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

WHO WANTS TO GET THEIR ASS KICKED ?
February 9, 2023

WHO WANTS TO GET THEIR ASS KICKED ?

Le Hoang Hiep is calling out anybody willing to get in the ring with him February 25th  for the upcoming VSP PRO at VSP Gym in HCMC.

But he has some ominous advice :

"Wear two mouthguards, and take out some insurance. Life insurance I mean !

I watched that guy JonJon Estrada recently, and wow, that's a guy who really knows how to clean house. I think I've learned some new stuff watching him.

I'm ready to drop bombs on February 25. Baby Kong is coming to put the judges out of a job ! BOOOM !!"

VSP PRO      Professional boxing event

Saturday February 25th    6pm start

VSP Boxing Gym

147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

MAD ASS KONG JUNIOR BACK FEBRUARY 25TH
February 6, 2023

MAD ASS KONG JUNIOR BACK FEBRUARY 25TH

Le Hoang Hiep took a dive in the deep end when he took on the Philippines Jetro Pabustan last December.

Despite jumping some weight classes, the rumored Russian gang member was confident he could handle the former WBO World title contender, and true to his word, he delivered a great all action display.

Baby Kong will return to the ring for VSP PRO this month, and as usual, he is immodest about his prospects.

"Please get me the address of my opponent's parents, I will send an apology note and flowers.

Sorry for the ass kickin' It was just all business. Signed Baby Kong!"

VSP PRO

Saturday February 25th

VSP BOXING GYM

147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION FOR PABUSTAN
December 26, 2022

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION FOR PABUSTAN

Mindanao's Jetro Pabustan will kick start his 2023 campaign with a Manila bout on January 30.

The Silent Operator has made no secret of his ambitions to work toward a title fight again, and is working hard to get the year started on the right foot.

Jetro Pabustan recently competed in Vietnam against local cult boxer Le Hoang Hiep, so is sure to embrace the new year in career best shape.

FULL FIGHT - Le Hoang Hiep vs Jetro Pabustan
December 15, 2022

FULL FIGHT - Le Hoang Hiep vs Jetro Pabustan

Crazy Junior King Kong aka Young Blood and former Russian gang member Le Hoang Hiep jumps two weight classes and meets Philippines' Jetro Pabustan in centre ring.

Pabustan is a winner of 31 fights and previously contested a WBO World Title.

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS
December 11, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS

All the action from 7 great bouts at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino :

OFFICIAL WEIGHT: LE HOANG HIEP VS JETRO PABUSTAN
December 9, 2022

OFFICIAL WEIGHT: LE HOANG HIEP VS JETRO PABUSTAN

Le Hoang Hiep      53.8kg  (Vietnam)

Jetro Pabustan     55.2kg  (Philippines)

OUTTA MY WAY -  KONG JUNIOR IS HERE !
December 7, 2022

OUTTA MY WAY - KONG JUNIOR IS HERE !

Attitude and personality goes a long way, and Vietnam young gun Le Hoang Hiep has these attributes and much, much more !

The audacious Hiep will jump 3 weight classes this Saturday and tackle Philippines Jetro Pabustan head on.

Anyone who knows the character of Vietnamese people, knows that they love to be challenged, and this Saturday, Hiep gets to go and try 4 rounds in the lion's cage with the Silent Operator  !

Young Blood will very definitely need to bring his very best KING KONG to the ring at Fortunes of War.

FIGHT 2: Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
December 1, 2022

FIGHT 2: Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep

MEET OUR FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHTERS !

FIGHT 2: Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep

LE HOANG HIEP  Debut

22 yrs old / Orthodox / Young Blood / 162cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight

Nam Dinh, Vietnam / Matrix Boxing HCMC

Young Blood, Thug Life, Saigon Psycho, Street Vigga - Russian born Hiep goes by many names, but they all point to a central truth. This young Viet is equal parts crazy brave and crazy mad ! But he can fight too !

Competing with grown men in amateur tournaments when just a teen, Le Hoang Hiep showed loads of potential, but unfortunately the pandemic and the closure of all Vietnam gyms halted that potential growth. Temporarily at least !

VSP put out advertisements looking for young Viet prospects looking to gain experience against  visiting pros, and Hiep was one of the very first to respond. Despite being only a true 51kg Flyweight, Hiep begged for the Bantamweight clash with Philippines Jetro Pabustan.

“Get me that bitch Pabustan, he will be mine”!. And so the job was awarded to Hiep !

Prior to the pandemic, Le Hoang Hiep showed that he has the makings of a good pro.

He boasts plenty of speed and power, and he also showed good timing in high level amateur bouts that he contested. And the guy is super tough.!

If there was to be a query on Hiep in this bout, it would be to do with his jump of three weight classes and his ability to maintain workrate against the heavier Philippines boxer. Pabustan.is well known for his fitness, and as Hiep only commenced training recently, 4 rounds will seem an eternity against the bigger Jetro Pabustan.

JETRO PABUSTAN  31 wins

32 yrs old / Southpaw / Silent Operator / 168cm / 55kg Super Bantamweight

Malapatan, Sarangani, Philippines / VSP Elorde Manila

Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!

The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.

The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of  a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.

Jetro Pabustan will look to erase that disappointment and make an emphatic statement here in Vietnam.

YOUNG BLOOD "JUST WANNA PUNCH ON!"
November 25, 2022

YOUNG BLOOD "JUST WANNA PUNCH ON!"

Saigon street cred meets the boxing ring !

Le Hoang Hiep  aka thug life aka young blood returns to boxing FINALLY after a pandemic enforced holiday.

This kid was only a teenager beating up on grown men before Vietnam closed down in 2020, and when he heard Jetro Pabustan was coming in December, he begged for the assignment.

"But Hiep, Pabustan is an internationally performed and dangerous professional. He's won 31 fights, won regional titles, and even fought in a WBO World Championship. And to make things worse, he's two or three weight classes up above you !"

Young Blood responded :

"I don't care who it is.

Tell that mtfk I just wanna punch on ! Young Blood will fight anyone if the dollars are there!"

Enough said !

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam

Saturday December 10

THOSE THAT DARE TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE
November 21, 2022

THOSE THAT DARE TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE

With Fortunes of War only weeks away we thought we'd check in with these Vietnam Tigers and see how they are looking in their preparations.

The answer: AMAZING  !

These three young prospects are daring to dream big, and will be fighting professional stars from the Philippines on December 10.

They are all on steep learning paths, and it will be a significant task just to survive their battles in Ho Tram.

(Thee princes from left)

Le Hoang Hiep fights Jetro Pabustan.

Phan Minh Quân fights Mark John Yap.

Thai Hoang Huy fights JonJon Estrada.

The boys are in super shape already and are almost at their assigned fighting weights.

Good luck to our Vietnam  warriors!

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam

Saturday December 10

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS
November 19, 2022

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS

Vietnam is a hotbed of boxing talent, and there are many picturesque locations in that special country  to show case the best action matches to fight fans.

The Grand Ho Tram situated  in the southern beach area of Vung Tau is simply iconic, and as the name suggests, they have some very GRAND plans.

This beautiful coastal resort plans to be "THE PLACE" for boxing in Asia  - think of Vegas by the beach !

And yes again, they actually have an incredible Casino  (and a Greg Norman designed golf course too !)

The Grand Ho Tram have already staged two events this year, and on December 10, are going all out with the biggest sports event in Vietnam this year.

The Fortunes of War event brings together many of Asia's best fighters for the very first time, and will host three title matches sanctioned by the IBF and WBO.

The event will also embrace the fun side of boxing, and will avail three novice Vietnam prospects the opportunity to share the ring with top foreign professionals. These exhibition bouts will be fast and furious and held over 4 rounds - if they go that long!

Congratulations

to our friends at The Grand Ho Tram for being such great supporters of boxing, and for hosting the most iconic sports event in Vietnam this year.

A perfect way to end 2022 !

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort Vietnam

Saturday December 10

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM
November 17, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM

Mark your calendars, this is rhe biggest sports event in Vietnam this year, and the perfect end to the year if you are a fight fan !

The Grand Ho Tram aims to become the boxing mecca, and have secured many of Asia's best boxers for the "Fortunes of War" event.

This iconic event, which is spearheaded by three titles fights, will be broadcast by Webthethao in Vietnam, and Elorde TV and Solar Sports in the Philippines.

THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM

Saturday December 10

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!
November 14, 2022

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

Saturday December 10   Fortunes of War !

Latest news

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

"The Ferocious" Carlo Magali looking absolutely shredded at the BATTLEFIELD weigh in just moments ago.

National champion Magali takes on the unbeaten freak talent King's Warrior Charly Suarez in a bout which will decide both RP and WBA Asia titles.

Both fighters weighed in within the Super Featherweight limit at 129 pounds.

Action takes place tomorrow at the Elorde Sports Centre in Parañaque.

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST
October 21, 2022

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST

The Philippines’ Charly Suarez will headline a huge card in Manila this Sunday, when he defends his regional WBA belt agsinst national champion Carlo Magali.

Suarez is without peer in Philippines boxing right now, and arguably sits with Naoya Inoue as the most technically gifted fighter in all of Asia,

The Davao native sits unbeaten at 12 and 0, and such has been his dominance against quality local opposition, he has scored 7 knockouts so far in his pro career.

Carlo Magali will be another solid test for Suarez. A winner of 25 fights, Magali has a very awkward and resilient style that has upset more heavily favoured opponents. Blessed with a great chin and thudding power, the man that has earned the ring name “The Ferocious” is regarded as a killer in his homeland, and in the literal sense.

National champion Magali had an historic battle with Australia’s top 130 Davey Browne a few years back, and such was the bludgeoning that Magali delivered, the unbeaten Aussie lost his life as a result of his injuries.

Carlo Magali comes into Sunday’s match in career best condition, as reported by his camp, so it will be interesting to see if he can subdue the freakish Suarez in any way.

Charly Suarez will be looking to put on another electric display in Sunday’s WBA title defense, and is eyeing off bigger bouts in future. News just broken is that he will head to HO Tram Vietnam on December 10 and look to win the IBF belt, against a soon to be named opponent. The unbeaten boxer will be focussed on world top 10 fights in 2023, and with wins over world champs Oscar Valdez and Joe Cordina in the amateurs, he has every reason to have claims to the throne now that Shakur Stevenson has departed.

“I will fight anyone, anywhere !” beamed the ever smiling Suarez.

BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI

How to watch:

VSP Promotions Facebook      https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions

What time?

US East Coast        6am

US West Coast       3am

UK                          11am

Vietnam                  5pm

Philippines              6pm

Australia and PNG  9pm

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA
October 18, 2022

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA

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.

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !
October 17, 2022

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !

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 !

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING
October 16, 2022

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING

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

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!
October 14, 2022

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

Be there or watch it here live !

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY
October 14, 2022

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY

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.

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD
October 11, 2022

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD

Manila Lightweight DEADLY Daffy Dempo is back in action next Sunday with a highly anticipated bout with fellow Manila boxer Jonniel Laurente.

This will be the first match for the popular boxer since 2019, when Dempo comprehensively outscored Danny Manosa. Prior to that, DEADLY was involved in a drawn bout with the wild man Jino Rodrigo, who also appears on this card.

Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente

8 rounds Lightweight 132lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION
October 10, 2022

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION

Palawan boxer Jahzeel Trinidad aims to keep his unbeaten record (6 wins) intact when he tackles JC Francisco (8 wins) next week.

This will be his toughest test so far, but this high energy boxer known as "Lion Hearted" has all the right tools to make it a thriller with the more experienced Francisco.

Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco

8 rounds Flyweight  112lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO
October 9, 2022

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO

Nguyễn Văn Duong and Brazil's outstanding  Esquiva Falcao are just two of the big names taking part in the "friendly" at Cocky Buffalo gym in Ho Chi Minh City today.

Falcao was a silver medallist winner at the 2012 Olympics, and has since gone on an unbeaten 30 fight winning streak as a pro. The world #14 will spar Vietnam Lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan as part of today's exhibition.

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY
October 10, 2022

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY

DInh Hong Quan, Nguyễn Văn Duong, Vu Thanh Dat and many others joining Brazilian champ Esquiva Falcao in a friendly sparring day today at Cocky Buffalo gym in District 7 HCMC today.

"LET'S SEE WHO'S LEFT STANDING !"
October 10, 2022

"LET'S SEE WHO'S LEFT STANDING !"

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

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !
October 9, 2022

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !

Expect things to get crazy !

Ali Cañega v Jerwin Mejes

8 rounds Super Lightweight  140lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS
October 9, 2022

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS

Mr. Heart Throb is BACK, and he is aiming to leave a long trail broken hearts, starting this October 23rd!!

Claudevan Sese v Albert Alcoy

6 rounds  Super Bantamweight 122lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

"YOUR MOVE, MR. RAKA !"
October 8, 2022

"YOUR MOVE, MR. RAKA !"

Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

MAGALI  "ALL BUSINESS !"
October 7, 2022

MAGALI "ALL BUSINESS !"

COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

RAKA: "YAP WON'T HAVE TO GO LOOKING"
October 6, 2022

RAKA: "YAP WON'T HAVE TO GO LOOKING"

Papua New Guinea's hard man Junior Kauko Raka responded to recent suggestions that Mark John Yap would put an exclamation mark on their clash by going for the knockout. Whilst Yap, and perhaps the whole of the Philippines, know what potential dangers  the PNG Prodigy brings to the ring, they are also aware that the safest plan is to get him out of there as soon as possible.

The scheduled 8 round fight will take place in just over two weeks from now, and Raka had this to say:

"Knockout ? Well let's see!

We won't be running like ring girls, and I'm ready to fight toe to toe, so he won't have to go looking for me. We will see who stays standing!"

Spoken in true Warrior spirit!

PNG's Raka has experienced only one loss in 10 bouts, a points decision at the hands of top flight pinoy Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match. The powerful Port Moresby boxer has scored 7 knockouts along a path of destruction, and notably, is yet to be dropped.

This will be a compelling match up, with "The Journeyman" Mark John Yap starting a warm favourite, but likely to experience a torrid time with his PNG foe.

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS
October 6, 2022

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds Lightweight 135lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THE BEST IS YET TO COME !
October 6, 2022

THE BEST IS YET TO COME !

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

REBOOT - A NEW BEGINNING !
October 5, 2022

REBOOT - A NEW BEGINNING !

This great pic was from the Reboot show way back in February 2021, and it was a major accomplishment by Mam Cucuy Elorde to pull it off!

Charly Suarez had been inactive (as were all local pinoy fighters) and the pandemic was proving to be a terrible time for many boxers who could not return home, and even worse, having a daily battle to feed themselves and their families.

VSP asked Mam Cucuy if it was possible to create a show so that Charly Suarez could resume his career. Despite all odds, she put together a great card that  also unearthed another big talent - the Wolverine JonJon Estrada!

The event was aptly named Reboot  "New Beginning" ,and even though there were only 5 bouts, and the boxers had to endure a "quarantine bubble", it was a lot of fun and marked the start of boxing again in the Philippines.

Boxers that starred at THE BEGINNING :

The Wolverine JonJon Estrada

King's Warrior Charly Suarez

Cerberus Lorenz Ladrada

Remon "Bad Bad" Basas  

Ali "Carnage" Cañega

Apocalypse Glenn Bismanos

The Sniper Ben Ligas

The Bull Alphoe Dagayloan

The Prince Andrew Laurio

Ranny "the Cleaner" Quizo

"DONE TRAINING"
October 5, 2022

"DONE TRAINING"

Clarence Breboneria and  Mark John Yap finish their working day with more rounds in the bank.

Breboneria had a battle with Dengue fever earlier this year, but is now back to full health, and is aiming to be at his energetic best for his upcoming bout.

The Journeyman Mark John Yap will be appearing at the BATTLEFIELD this month in an absolute belter of a match up with PNG’s Junior Raka.

Yap has ventured from CDO to Manila to have the final touches put on his preparation by coach Jetro Pabustan.

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

SUAREZ: "WE ARE CARRYING BOMBS!"
October 4, 2022

SUAREZ: "WE ARE CARRYING BOMBS!"

Charly Suarez knows full well the reputation of Carlo Magali, and is aware that "the Ferocious" will throw everything at him in order to retain the national title - including the kitchen sink!

The King's Warrior is a big fan of Magali but assures, if it turns into a dog fight, he equally knows how to get down and dirty.

" Team Suarez like to box smart, and we know Carlo has the power. But we are also willing to meet FIRE with FIRE !

We are carrying bombs, and we will use them if we have to" warned the "King's Warrior".

Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali

RP National title  WBA Asia title

12 rounds  Super Featherweight 59kg

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

BABY DID A BAD BAD THING
October 3, 2022

BABY DID A BAD BAD THING

The relentless punching machine that is Remon Basas returns this month, and matches up with rangy young southpaw Jestine Ace Tesoro.

The bout will signal a move to the heavier weight classes for Basas, but without doubt, Olivetti Gym will have him well prepared for the task. The 24 year old fighter is still very much on the improvement path, but has already racked up 6 wins, and has experienced good opponents like Delmar Pellio, Lorenz Ladrada and Franco Serafica.

The great thing that has characterized all his performances is that he always brings the heat! This kid is relentlessly working in the ring, and has a low looping style that sets up really effective body punches.

Jestine Ace Tesoro is a really promising type. He had good moments against JonJon Estrada, outgunned a very savvy Lorence Rosas, and then was narrowly beaten in Japan. But for Remon Basas, Tesoro is just another guy across the ring, and he will be bringing a bucket load of BAD BAD intentions to the party !

Remon Basas v Jestine Ace Tesoro

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

WELCOME TO PHILIPPINES MR. RAKA !
October 2, 2022

WELCOME TO PHILIPPINES MR. RAKA !

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

WHO IS THE PHILIPPINES NUMBER ONE??
October 1, 2022

WHO IS THE PHILIPPINES NUMBER ONE??

Don't miss this iconic main event at the BATTLEFIELD show this October.

Charly Suarez is the former amateur champ and has looked flawless in his pro career so far. He has a singular intent to work to a world title opportunity.

Carlo Magali has been one of the most under estimated yet effective pinoy warriors in recent years. Known as "The Ferocious", and for good reason, he has a history of dismantling more favored fighters.

Who will get bragging rights ?

Come to the BATTLEFIELD and claim your piece of history !

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

WOLVERINE READY TO GO BERSERK !
September 24, 2022

WOLVERINE READY TO GO BERSERK !

JonJon Estrada and Yushi Fujita make weight in Osaka Japan earlier today.

Fujita is a tall and rangy fighter with 9 wins, and like most of his countrymen, is strong and durable.

But Estrada carries the Equalizer, that being the sleeping pills he confidently holds in both hands, and owning a long history of violence, having "slept" 14 opponents in his 15 wins !

This is a great match up because Fujita likes to trade, and this may play directly into the sharpened claws of the man known as THE WOLVERINE !

READY TO PULL THE TRIGGER
September 25, 2022

READY TO PULL THE TRIGGER

Palawan sharp shooter Erson "the trigger" Trinidad is set to bring his all action style to Parañaque this October when he joins the BATTLEFIELD !

The promising youngster returned from a near 3 year hiatus in August, accounting for a very good fighter named Arjay Recopelacion. Whilst there were plenty of good touches from both boxers, the Puerto Princessa native gave the impression there is a lot more up his sleeve with his majority decision win.

The victory by Trinidad was his 4th as a professional, and based on the blazing hand speed he showed, expect him to come to the BATTLEFIELD all guns loaded and ready to PULL THE TRIGGER !

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THIS CAN BE SOMETHING SPECIAL !
September 26, 2022

THIS CAN BE SOMETHING SPECIAL !

Kayne "Superman" Clarke and Roldan "the Cobra" Aldea.

Sublime speed meets southpaw stealth and wizardry!

GOOD MORNING MARK JOHN YAP !
September 26, 2022

GOOD MORNING MARK JOHN YAP !

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

THE PNG PRODIGY COMING TO MANILA
September 27, 2022

THE PNG PRODIGY COMING TO MANILA

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

EVEN STARS GOTTA EAT !
September 28, 2022

EVEN STARS GOTTA EAT !

Surely a million dollars worth of talent, all in the same cafe!

Clarence Breboneria, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan discussing politics, climate change, religion, dating apps, and even how to bring down their next opponents.

YES   these boys are DIVERSE !

Watch out for the middle guy, a KILLER named Yap. He is CDO through and through, but just arrived in Manila to prepare for an October 23 showdown with Papua New Guinea's strongman Junior Raka.

Mark John Yap looked in great touch in August when he fought the King's Warrior Charly Suarez, and both these fighters return to the ring in October and form the two main events.

Suarez has a formidable task of his own, taking on the very Ferocious Carlo Magali.

If you are in Manila and a diehard boxing fan, you don't want to miss these two epic features. Cracking support bouts also.

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

ARE YOU READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK ?
September 30, 2022

ARE YOU READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK ?

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

THREE AMIGOS OR MEN IN BLACK ?
September 30, 2022

THREE AMIGOS OR MEN IN BLACK ?

That's right, another torrid Friday afternoon session, but always time for a smile amongst the hard work !

Promising talent Clarence Breboneria is surrounded by boxing wisdom with Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap lending some advice.

Breboneria and Yap have big fights coming up in October, and are sure to be in immaculate shape under the guidance of Pabustan.

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

GOING, GOING, GOOONNNNNE!
September 23, 2022

GOING, GOING, GOOONNNNNE!

Cris Ganoza, JonJon Estrada and Roland Jay Biendima at Ninoy Aquino Airport pictured early this morning, and bound for Osaka Japan.All three Elorde boys will fight this Sunday, but at two different events.Cris Ganoza meets unbeaten Goki Kobayashi on the same card as Roland Biendima, who matches up with Tetsuro Ohashi.Meanwhile, in another part of Osaka, if they are hearing blood curdling screams, you will know why!The Wolverine JonJon Estrada goes to war with Yushi Fujita, and this will be EPIC! Fujita loves to trade, and has the style that really plays into the hands of the Philippines cult hero and KO specialist Estrada. This will definitely be an action fan's dream fight, and a very clear example of, you get to live or die by the sword !Great match up but predicting a Wolverine victory in Osaka !

YAP ON TRACK TO DERAIL JUNIOR RAKA
September 23, 2022

YAP ON TRACK TO DERAIL JUNIOR RAKA

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

MAGALI TO FIGHT OLYMPIAN BOXER FOR WBA TITLE
September 22, 2022

MAGALI TO FIGHT OLYMPIAN BOXER FOR WBA TITLE

*story courtesy Baguio Midland Courier

Benguet-based boxer Carlo Magali, the reigning Philippine Games and Amusement Board super featherweight champion, will challenge World Boxing Association Asia Charly Suarez at the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañque City on Oct. 23.

The 32-year-old Magali will again enter the ring after a two-year hiatus from boxing since capturing the Asian Boxing Federation and PGAB super featherweight belts against Al Toyogon in December 2019.

At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Magali along with fellow boxers under Highland Boxing of Igorot international boxing promoter Brico Santig, opted to stay in La Trinidad and had to look for ways to support their families, as sports promotions were prohibited.

Magali, whose boxing career has been revived by Highland Boxing, said he respects his opponent, who remains undefeated in his 12 professional bouts.

The 34-year-old Suarez of San Isidro, Davao del Norte, who represented the Philippines in the 2016 Rio Olympics, turned professional boxer in 2019, the year he captured the Philippines Mindanao Professional Boxing Federation lightweight belt.

A year later, he captured the Philippines Luzon ProBA super featherweight belt which he successfully defended against Filipino challengers.

Santig, who is actively promoting boxing events in the Middle East and other parts of Asia, travelled back to La Trinidad last week to check the training of Magali.

Magali captured the vacant Asian Boxing Federation super featherweight belt and the vacant Philippine super featherweight belt at the Manila Arena in 2019.

He clinched the belts via split decision victory against Al Toyogon in the main event of “Knockout” promoted by Santig and Darwin Miller Dep-ay of Highland Boxing and DMAD Promotions.

In June 2018, Magali failed to defend his Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation super featherweight belt to an undefeated Japanese boxer Hionori Mishiro via split decision in their 12-round championship bout in Japan. – Harley F. Palangchao

RODRIGO JOINS THE BATTLEFIELD

RODRIGO JOINS THE BATTLEFIELD

Perhaps one of the unluckiest boxers in recent months is high octane performer Jino Rodrigo. The "Silent Beast" has been the victim of multiple fight cancelations, including an international challenge in Kazakhstan. But Borat's loss is Philippines' gain, and the big news breaking today is that GAB has approved the late inclusion of Rodrigo at BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22.

Jino Rodrigo takes on a previous opponent in Kelvin Tenorio, a fighter who he edged a points victory over back in 2018. Tenorio managed to survive onslaughts from top prospects like Jose Roda Jr and Carlo Bacaro, so this should be a really good clash.

And Jino is a MADMAN !

You will never see the Silent Beast in a boring fight - this is a guy that always tries to put the judges out of a job !

If there is a Knockout to be had, Jino Rodrigo is the man to deliver it, because he carries the sleeping pills in both hands !

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

START OF A NEW WEEK
September 20, 2022

START OF A NEW WEEK

Chillers, thrillers and KILLERZZZ assembled at Elorde Southbox this morning for yet another training block.

Big fights coming!!

Next event BATTLEFIELD Oct 23 in Manila

RAKA MEETS YAP - A TALE OF TWO CITIES
September 19, 2022

RAKA MEETS YAP - A TALE OF TWO CITIES

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

MAGALI TOO EXPERIENCED FOR SUAREZ ?
September 19, 2022

MAGALI TOO EXPERIENCED FOR SUAREZ ?

*story courtesy of Daily Tribune

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — Carlo Magali attempts to mess up the grand plans of Rio Olympics veteran Charly Suarez in his bid to win the World Boxing Association Asia super-featherweight title on 23 October at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Complex.

The Bohol-born Magali, who has been based here, enters the ring armed with a 25 win record with 13 knockouts.

Magali swears he holds a big edge in experience but that alone won’t be enough to beat Suarez, who has an undefeated record of 12 wins, including seven knockouts.

“But Suarez is also good so I have to be prepared,” Magali said.

A former Orient-Pacific Boxing Federation champion, Magali, 35, became a headliner many years ago when he fought in Australia.

Magali scored a 12th-round knockout of Davey Browne Jr. with 30 seconds remaining before the end of the fight.

Browne would spend a few days in hospital while in coma before dying owing to massive head injuries.

Suarez is handled by his former teammate in the national team, Delfin Boholst.

WE GOT A FIGHT IN DUBAI !
September 16, 2022

WE GOT A FIGHT IN DUBAI !

Philippines Al Toyogan and Cuba's Armando Martinez Rabi made weight just moments ago.

Rabi is a former amateur standout, who is now 7 and 0 as a pro, and if you think Cubans lack pop, think again! The dynamic punching Rabi has put 6 of his victims away by knockout !

Fans of Toyogan know that he boasts plenty of firepower of his own, and combined with a great chin, he is sure to give Armando Rabi a huge challenge.

This is a spectacular fight, and as good as the Cuban is, Philippines' Toyogan is a real live dog!

This is genuine 50/50 !

AL TOYOGAN HITS DUBAI
September 16, 2022

AL TOYOGAN HITS DUBAI

Elorde Gym boxer Al Toyogan has touched down in Dubai ahead of Saturday's big fight with unbeaten Cuban Armando Martinez Rabi.

Rabi is a former amateur standout, who is now 7 and 0 as a pro, and if you think Cubans lack pop, think again! The dynamic punching Rabi has put 6 of his victims away by knockout !

Fans of Toyogan know that he boasts plenty of firepower of his own, and combined with a great chin, he is sure to give Armando Rabi a huge challenge.

This is a spectacular fight, and as good as the Cuban is, Philippines' Toyogan is a real live dog!

This is genuine 50/50 !

BATTLEFIELD - OPENING SESSION
September 14, 2022

BATTLEFIELD - OPENING SESSION

Have a look at some of the cracking gunfights on this card to open for Suarez and Magali !

The unbeaten Weljon Mindoro matches up with the Highland's Gym resuming power puncher Jun Ibgos. Both these boys have crazy KO stats !

D'HAMMER is back in a big way. He looked rock solid against a quality Jufel Salina, and is looking to build on that performance against a really smart fighter in Ivor Lastrilla.

Jerald Into is rapidly improving young fighter,  and is potentially the best 135 in the land, but has he bitten off more than he can chew at this stage with a killer named Eduardo Mancito ? Love this fight, Mancito has fought the best (even Suarez ) and he did great. This is very definitely one of the best fights all day.

Every bout on this morning card is loaded with talent and FIREPOWER!

We will have a review on all these matches in coming weeks.

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

TO THE VICTOR GO THE SPOILS
September 13, 2022

TO THE VICTOR GO THE SPOILS

Congratulations to our friend Virgel Vitor on his recent WBO Oriental title win.

Vitor scored a spectacular round 3 KO of Thailand's Arnon Yupang to secure the belt.

The Bohol fighter, known as Valiente, was a World Team member at the VSP Promotions Victory8 event held in Hanoi in late 2019. Vitor fought a superb battle with Vietnam Team's Nguyễn Văn Gioi in front of a crowd of 25,000 people, and it was obvious from his performance that night that he had a very big future.

Well done on your victory Virgel, and wishing you further success in your path ahead.

LAUREJAS TO STORM THE BATTLEFIELD
September 11, 2022

LAUREJAS TO STORM THE BATTLEFIELD

Former smart amateur Donald Laurejas makes a short turnaround when he takes on debutant Jess Mike Malaca this October in Parañaque.

Laurejas made a solid debut in August, getting a decision over a vastly improved Marlon Bacolando. He showed some nice touches in that fight, and looked excellent when he used his height and reach to advantage. It is fair to say that the more experienced Bacolando applied good pressure in that contest, and Laurejas will definitely improve significantly from that bout.

BATTLEFIELD UKC has some really promising young fighters on the card, and you can include Donald Laurejas in that group. He has sparred with some big names prior and subsequent to his debut, and has handled the pressure extremely well. Expect to see a vastly improved performance when this young man steps into the ring on October 23rd.

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

"PRODIGY" TO BATTLE MARK JOHN YAP
September 10, 2022

"PRODIGY" TO BATTLE MARK JOHN YAP

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

THREE KINGS IN THE PACK
September 10, 2022

THREE KINGS IN THE PACK

Yes! Saturday is work day too! These three Elorde boys are busy honing the skills and building bone and muscle. Jules Victoriano just returned from Vietnam, where he had a huge encounter with local lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan.

Cris Ganoza and the Wolverine have exciting times ahead, and will venture to Japan this month. Ganoza takes on unbeaten Goki Kobayashi, whilst Estrada looks to put the claws into Yushi Fujita.

WATCH OUT JAPAN!