Age :
33
Height :
161
cm
Stance :
Orthodox
Region :
Vaxjo
Country :
Swedish
Record : PRO DEBUT
Record :
9
Wins
(
2
KO)
/
3
Loss
/
3
Draws
Sweden's Linn Sandstrom returns to Manila on August 7th, where she takes on Thai Khwunchit Khunya in a bantamweight undercard bout.
It has already been a busy year for the Aussie trained boxer, who fought in the Philippines in March. As widely reported, Sandstrom came to boxing quite late, but is making up for lost time and will be chasing her 6th win as a pro against Khunya.
If you are in Manila and want to see Linn in action, please arrive early. It's a big day of undercard action !
LINN SANDSTROM v KHWUNCHIT KHUNYA
6 rounds Bantamweight 54kg
Australian Novice Champion in 54kg
Congrats to Victory8 fighter Linn Sandström, who was successful in her WBA assault in York Hall London just moments ago. The Swedish boxer first appeared as a novice performer in Vietnam at Victory8 in 2018, where she challenged national champion Nguyễn Thi Tam at Nguyễn Du Stadium in Ho Chi Minh City.
Sandstrom has since forged a pro career and showed continued improvement, winning in Australia, the Philippines, Costa Rica and tonight's bout in England. Her WBA win over Croatian Sara Marjanovic was Linn Sandström's 7th in the paid ranks, and she's just getting started !
GO SANDSTORM!
"That's Amore" !! Two WBA Asia title holders in the house at ANNIHILATION TIGER UKC in Parañaque, the most recently crowned being Linn Sandstrom.
The Swedish fighter, trained in Australia by Tony Del Vecchio, scored a solid win to grab the belt from a Thai opponent that came to survive. It was Sandstrom's 6th win as a pro, and signaled better things to come.
And who better to compare notes with than the Wonder Boy himself, Carl Jammes Martin, who recently successfully defended the very same title!
WOW!!! It's this weekend!! We are supercharging up the weekend with 20 pro fights and 4 title belts!
ANNIHILATION TIGER UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th
Four title fights on two cards !
Charly Suarez v Mark John Yap
Al Toyogan v Allan Villanueva
Lito Dante v Clyde Azarcon
Linn Sandstrom v Khwunchit Khunya
KABOOM!
Not only that, when do top overseas fighters ever come to the Philippines ? Never !
Well, we've got'em!
Check out the first time appearance of top international fighters Michael Pengue from Australia, and the legendary Nguyen Van Hai from Vietnam.
And you wanting more! You got it!
We are showcasing some of the best up and coming talent on the local scene right now!
If you're not there, then you're no boxing fan!
Come and get some !
ANNIHILATION TIGER UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT ON OUR FB LIVE !!!
Aisah “D’Striker” Alico resumed from a three year break from the sport, when beaten by Swedish visitor Linn Sandstrom back in March.
Despite the defeat, there was plenty to like about her first up showing.
Alico showed lots of clever hands and spontaneous attack in that contest, whereas her defense was mitigated some by the fact that she had a very short preparation, and she was contesting a heavier and less suitable weight class.
Linn Sandstrom (who also appears on the card) had nothing but praise for her opponent:
“She hit me with some great shots, and her power really surprised me. Aisah is tough too, I think if she was fully fit then it would have been really hard to stop her. I’m sure she will improve a lot on today’s performance if she can get another fight soon”
Cagayan de Oro native Alico will take on Allen Joy Solidarios, a debutant from the Nietes Stable Negros Occidental. Not much is known about Solidarios, except she is young, fast and has potential. She will be well schooled, and she will definitely have good knowledge of the sort of threats that her opponent can bring to the ring.
This will be a much more suitable weight class for southpaw Alico, who will fight here at around 10 pounds lighter than her March outing. With 7 wins to her credit, Alico clearly has an experience edge on her rival, so expect to see her show a very offensive display when these two girls meet early next month in Paranaque.
AISAH ALICO v ALLEN JOY SOLIDARIOS
4 rounds Minimum Weight 105 pounds
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Sweden's Linn Sandstrom returns to Manila on August 7th, where she takes on Thai Khwunchit Khunya in a bantamweight undercard bout.
It has already been a busy year for the Aussie trained boxer, who fought in the Philippines in March. As widely reported, Sandstrom came to boxing quite late, but is making up for lost time and will be chasing her 6th win as a pro against Khunya.
If you are in Manila and want to see Linn in action, please arrive early. It's a big day of undercard action !
LINN SANDSTROM v KHWUNCHIT KHUNYA
6 rounds Bantamweight 54kg
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Sweden's Linn Sandstrom had previously visited the Philippines for training camps back in 2019, and returned in March of this year to fight with Cagayan De Oro's Aisah Alico.
Both girls are back for ANNIHILATION UKC, but this time face different opponents. The "Sandstorm" has kept busy, winning bouts in Costa Rica and Australia since her Manila success.
"I love the Philippines, the people are warm like the weather. They always make me feel very welcome, it's almost like I'm an honorary citizen. I'm very excited to be back fighting there again, and really pumped to be on a card with so many great and talented boxers" enthused the Swedish slugger.
Linn Sandstrom will fight Thailand's Khwunchit Khunya in a 6 round bantamweight contest.
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Some cracking undercard bouts, and the inclusion of some foreign invaders, just to add flavour!
Nguyen Van Hai from Vietnam makes his first international pro appearance when he takes on home boy Jerald Into. Hai is a master at many fight forms, and though he hasn't boxed for some time, his clash with the unbeaten Into will be one of the highlights of ANNIHILATION UKC.
Linn Sandstrom promised a busy 2022, and the popular Swedish up and comer returns after a successful March appearance with Aisah Alico. She matches up with Thailand visitor Khwunchit Khunya.
Mickey Pengue from Australia is an outstanding type, but was derailed in a regional belt fight recently after damaging his ear drum in the opening round. He is on a quick back up in Paranaque, looking to steady the ship against the solid Gerry Patenio. The local boxer showed good signs in his last fight against tall timber Al Cañega, so will be no pushover for the impressive Aussie.
Roland Jay Biendima is a dynamo, and after a quality showing against national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas, he scored an emphatic win over Powell Balaba. Rest assured, he will be looking to carry on the good work when he meets Joel Taduran.
ANNIHILATION UKC
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday August 7th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Annihilation UKC is assembling an all star cast for Sunday August 7th!
We are going for an international flavour and have already secured Michael Pengue (Australia), Linn Sandstrom (Sweden) and the iconic Nguyễn Văn Hải (Vietnam) to come to Manila and mix it up with the Philippines fighters.
The biggest news is that Charly Suarez will defend his WBA belt, and we are very close to terms with a foreign opponent that claims he will halt the world title aspirations of the local star.
We say - bring it on!
This will be a MUST NOT MISS event, big news breaking soon on the full fight card!
In a great and often see-sawing battle over 8 rounds, Linn Sandstrom gained a majority decision over a gritty Floryvic Montero.
In a match where both girls displayed good touches, it was perhaps the accuracy of Sandstrom that laid the platform for the win.
Philippines Montero looked excellent in patches, and no doubt contended with some ring rust, but showed she will be a vastly improved fighter at her next appearance.
Philippines Floryvic Montero and Sweden's Linn Sandstrom just made weight for tomorrow night's clash in Newcastle Australia.
Multi discipline fighter Montero was slightly the heavier, but both girls looked in great shape and are sure to create fireworks when the bell goes.
Sandstrom is now based in Australia, and was a recent visitor to Manila in March, where she fought on the undercard of the Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat WBA title event.
Recent Philippines visitor Linn "Sandstorm" Sandstrom returns to the ring in Newcastle, Australia next Wednesday night.
Linn takes on the very versatile pinay Floryvic Montero.
Sandstrom has made no secret of the fact that she is a relative newcomer to boxing, and is playing catch up to learn as much as she can in short time. The Swedish boxer has 4 wins on her resume, and the clash with Philippines Montero, should prove to be a great contest and valuable ring time for both girls.
And to think, Linn Sandstrom started out as a table tennis player !
Recent Philippines visitor Linn Sandstrom made her pro "exhibition " debut in HCMC in late 2018.
This was very much "swimming with sharks" for Linn, who was matched with Vietnam national champion and SEA Games gold winner Nguyen Thi Tam. When this fight took place, Linn had been learning boxing for only 1.5 years!
Don't let it be said that Linn Sandstrom doesn't love a decent challenge!
Linn Sandstrom scored a third round stoppage in Costa Rica against Cristel Ruiz.
Despite being significantly outweighed, Sandstrom had the bigger work rate and tge more accurate power shots, to finish her Nicaraguan opponent.
Linn Sandstrom improves to 4 wins, and will be back in action in Australia in May.
Linn "the Sandstorm" Sandstrom will be competing for the third fight in a month tomorrow night, when she steps into the ring in the central American country of Costa Rica.
Sandstrom will compete on an all female card, headed by Costa Rican world champ Yokasta Valle.
The Swedish girl who is based in Australia, is looking to get as much international experience as possible to build her technical base, and has threatened she may even return to fight in the Philippines !
Linn Sandstrom is learning on the road, and will fight in Costa Rica on the undercard of world champ Yoka Valle's title defense.
"I’m fighting on @yokavalle_oficial undercard in Costa Rica, 25th of March, where she will defend her IBF World Title. It’s an honour to be a part on this ALL FEMALE Boxing Card over here in Costa Rica, in celebration of Womens Month together with some incredible girls on the card. Yoka is like the female version of Canelo, so I’m counting on a sold out venue and unreal atmosphere… I will be fighting a opponent from Nicaragua and this will be my 3rd professional fight in 22 days…" reported Sandstrom earlier today.
Linn has competed in Victory8 in Vietnam, and more recently, fought in Manila at TIGER 2022 UKC on the undercard of Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat.
Recent Philippines invader Linn Sandstrom had her first sparring session in Mexico yesterday. The Aussie based fighter is motivated to fast track her learning there, due to the abundance of great quality female athletes.
Sandstrom is looking to keep busy and fight upon her return to Australia, and says she will keep her options open after that.
Sweden's Linn Sandstrom and Mindanao's Aisah Alico put on a great show for the fans at TIGER 2O22. For Sandstrom, it was a valuable learning fight, and for the more experienced Alico, a chance to get much needed ring time after a pandemic enforced absence. Kudos to local girl Alico, whilst short on fitness, the Swedish fighter said that she hit a lot harder than any previous opponent !
We wish the Aussie based "Sandstorm" lots of luck in her future fights, and love to see her back again in the Philippines if she is passing by.
The very dapper and debonair Jaime Villanera Jr making sure visiting boxer Linn Sandstrom and team member Jada don't get lost in Manila.
When not auditioning for James Bond, Jaime doubles as a ring MC, and he earned his keep with a mega day at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday in Paranaque.
Linn Sandstrom had a successful visit, with a round 5 win over resuming Mindanao girl Aisah Alico.
Jada made herself useful also, showing her versatility as a ring card girl for the main WBA Asia bout between Charly Suarez and Tomjune Mangubat.
Well done team!
Great win on foreign soil by Linn Sandstrom against Mindanao girl Aisah Alico.
Despite showing caution, Sandstrom enjoyed the best of the action, and was the busier of the two boxers.
Aisah Alico looked comfortable Despite the fact she was largely in defensive mode, but was leveled with a decent Sandstrom body shot in the fifth round.
Nice win for the Swedish born Aussie Linn Sandstrom who says she LOVES THE PHILIPPINES !
The Wild Man Jino Rodrigo making international guests Linn Sandstrom and Jada feel welcome. When not a tour guide, the boisterous Rodrigo doubles as a boxer, and expect his clash with Roberto Gonzales to be one of the best of the day.
Can Jino get lucky two days in a row?
The three title fights all weighed in without problem, and all six boxers looked in magnificent shape.
Suarez v Mangubat WBA Asia title
Martin v Baldonado WBA Asia and RP title
Ligas v Biendima RP title
15 great fights Read all about them here:
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
YES Linn Sandstrom and Arnel Baconaje LOOK LIKE MODELS, but they are actually FIGHTERS !
They will be competing tomorrow in Paranaque at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Weigh in and press conference today.
Cagayan de Oro fighter Aisah "D'Striker" Alico has arrived in Manila, and is looking forward to her clash with Australia's Linn Sandstrom this Saturday.
Alico, who has 7 career wins (5KO), hasn't fought since March 2019, but has shared the ring previously with world class opponents. In contrast, Linn Sandstrom with 2 wins, is way less experienced, but has the advantage of being more recently active. The boxer known as "Sandstorm" had a solid victory in Brisbane last Thursday night at the No Limits Boxing show in Australia.
On arrival in Manila, the Mindanao girl said "It's HOT!" and headed straight to the pool for a cool down. Few could blame her, and for sure, expect things to get heated in her match this Saturday.
AISAH ALICO v LINN SANDSTROM
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
HONORARY PINAY !
Swedish boxer Linn Sandstrom flanked by boxers and crew at Elorde Southbox in Manila today.
Linn will be fighting in the opening event this Saturday.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque,Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Australia's Linn Sandstrom has touched down in Manila, and headed straight to the Elorde Southbox gym first thing this morning to shake off the jet lag !
Swedish born Sandstrom, who only recently turned pro, scored her second win on Thursday night at the big No Limits Boxing event in Brisbane.
Sandstrom has an unusual back story, having formerly being a high level table tennis player in Sweden, before discovering her true passion for boxing once she arrived in Australia. A relatively late comer to the sport, Linn is on a fast track to learn the game, and her plan is, stay as busy as possible !
Linn Sandstrom will fight CDO girl Aisah Alico in the opening fight at TIGER 2O22 on Saturday. Alico has recorded 7 wins (5 KO), but may have to contend with ring rust having not competed since 2019.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Big congrats to former Victory8 and world team members Danilo Creati and Linn Sandstrom on great wins in Brisbane last night.
"Dash" Creati put on a clinic, besting the outstanding Cameron Hammond, an Olympian who had won 18 of 19 pro fights. Creati was untouchable, winning by shutout and dropping his opponent twice during the contest.
Linn Sandstrom showed the benefits of a great camp, and better shot selection, in her victory over Ali Jensen. In an entertaining match, the Swedish born Sandstrom sent her opponent to the floor twice, but plenty of punches were still exchanged till the final bell.
Philippines Joe Noynay had a below par performance, stopped by a beautiful left hook in the second round from a vengeful Liam Wilson. Noynay weighed in 4kg over and his poor showing remains a puzzle.
Australia's Linn Sandstrom made weight easily for tomorrow night's clash in Brisbane against Ali Jensen.
The boxer known as "Sandstorm" has a busy schedule ahead, appearing again at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday March 12th.
Linn takes on CDO girl Aisah Alico, a winner of 7 fights, but she is resuming from a two year break from the sport.
This will no doubt be a challenging bout for both girls, and it will be great to finally see women's boxing making a welcome return to Manila.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The boxers competing at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge not only are super talented, they really look the part!
This is because of the cool and creative efforts of Raoul Navarrete and his team at Be Athletic, who look after not only the best athletes in the Philippines and abroad, they make these designs available to the fan market also.
Charly Suarez is out to make a statement on March 12th that he is the Philippines #1 fighter in any division, and he says he loves the Be Athletic gear.
We will show you the designs that some of the boxers have had customized in the coming days - they are amazing !
Even visiting boxer Linn Sandstrom (Australia ) was so impressed, she has had her outfit made by Be Athletic.
So get with the program, if you wanna BE ATHLETIC, (and look great) contact them for all your fight and Activewear needs.
Thanks Raoul Navarrete and Be Athletic !
Mindanao fighter Aisah Alico returns to the ring for the first time since early 2019. This southpaw from CDO is an experienced and internationally travelled war monger, and has some of the best fighters in the minimumweight division on her resume. She makes her return here as a flyweight, and despite being able to easily attain the lighter weight class, she comes to TIGER 2022 at the identical height of opponent Linn Sandstrom.
“D’Striker “ is perfectly monikered as she has really good hands, and she does create awkward angles from her southpaw stance. Ring rust may play a big part here for Alico, as her opponent has the advantage of recent competition. But for sure, experience is the trump card for Aisah, having shared the ring with top names like Yuko Kuroki, Momo Koseki, Ayaka Miyao and Philippines’ Jess Pagaduan.
The lack of recent form makes this match up tricky to pick, but it must be said, the CDO based Alico has defeated more experienced girls than Sandstrom in her 7 previous wins. She has also stopped 5 opponents along the way. Hmmmmm!
One thing is for certain though, it is great to have women’s boxing finally back in action once more!
GO GIRLS!!!
2021 was a regrettable year of gym closures, lockdowns, and quarantine bubbles. That not only made putting on an event extremely expensive and difficult, it made including women near impossible.
But all good things come to those who wait, and finally next month, TIGER 2022 sees Linn Sandstrom (1 win) of Australia (by way of Sweden), take on Mindanao’s Aisah Alico (7 wins).
Despite the relative inexperience of Sandstrom , she is on a fast track to learn, and has an interesting back story.
The Brazilian-born fighter was raised in Sweden, where she fell in love with table tennis, and went on to represent her country in the sport.
“Everyone back in Sweden knew me as the girl who played table tennis”
“It is (quite a leap to go from table tennis to boxing), but I’ve been an athlete my whole life so that athlete lifestyle is what I love.”
Sandstrom moved to Australia five years ago and got serious with her ambition to become a pro boxer. While there were skills she picked up in table tennis that came in handy — like hand-eye coordination and footwork — the fight game has one major difference.
“A lot of things are similar except you don’t get punched in the face when you do table tennis,” she said.
Sandstrom will fight Aisah Alico, a southpaw from Cagayan de Oro, before venturing to the States and central America to get some quality sparring. Her ambition is to string some wins together in 2022, and perhaps challenge some bigger names as the gloves start to feel as comfortable as the table tennis racket!
“I’ve had people that really, really want to see me fail. I’m a female that, I’m not just there to say I’m going to do things, I’m here to put in the work and that seems to irritate a lot of people.
“I’m doing me, this is my journey. I’m here to stay now, I’m here to prove a point.”
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Please note changes:
Jerven Mama withdrew last night due to an ear injury. He has been replaced by the GAB approved boxer Roland Biendima from General Santos City. Biendima is a winner of 15 bouts, and recently fought a points battle with champion Jade Bornea.
We have also added (finally !) a women's bout, where Linn Sandstrom from Australia (by way of Sweden !) takes on Aisah Alico in a flyweight contest.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
Eddie Alcoba jr Wins by KO
Romeo Tenorio Wins by UD
"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.
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
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
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 !
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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
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
Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali
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.
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 !
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
Kayne "Superman" Clarke and Roldan "the Cobra" Aldea.
Sublime speed meets southpaw stealth and wizardry!
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
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
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
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
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 !
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
*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
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
