Age :
36
Height :
168
cm
Stance :
Orthodox
Region :
Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental
Country :
Philippines
Record : PRO DEBUT
Record :
34
Wins
(
17
KO)
/
19
Loss
/
0
Draws
Mark John Yap is one of the Philippines premier boxers, and arguably one of their best internationally performed in recent times. In the five years prior to the pandemic, Yap literally tore some of Japan’s best fighters to shreds, and picked up three OPBF titles in the process. He has recorded 31 wins as a professional. Amazing considering the caliber of opposition that he has confronted during his incredible career.
This is a vastly experienced boxing star who most recently overcame Papua New Guinea champion Junior Raka in dominating fashion, and will be using this exhibition bout the keep his weapons sharp for a likely bout in Manila in January.
Don’t be surprised to see the Journey Man back in Vietnam in 2023 for a big fight.
Mark John Yap has arrived in Manila, en route to Bangkok, where he fights for the WBC Asia title this Saturday night.
Yap will make an audacious bid at the belt, jumping a weight class to Lightweight to take on champion Apichet Petchmanee who boasts a 15 win 1 loss record.
WBC ASIA LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
It's Philippines meets Thailand
Watch the Journey Man hits the road once more and will jump in weight in a bold plot to overthrow champion Apichet Petchmanee 15-1.
Saturday September 30th in Bangkok Thailand.
Mindanao mauler Mark John Yap has been offered the opportunity to add another title to his collection at very short notice, and has enlisted some family help before he heads to Manila. A 3x OPBF champion at 118lb in Japan, Yap is set to make an audacious bid to win the WBC Asia Lightweight title (at 135lb !) in Bangkok at the end of this month. Despite the very short time to prepare, his brother has stepped in to fast track his training for the impending WBC event. But brother Alberto Yap jr is no stranger to the sport of hard knocks ! The CDO local is a former amateur star, having even won the Philippines national youth title in a past life ! Mark John Yap has really proved to be a renaissance man in recent times, and despite having to compete above his normal weight class this month, he is expected to be a huge chance to secure more silverware for the Philippines ! Yap takes on the outstanding Thai champion Apichet Petchmanee, a boxer who boasts a 15-1 record.
Breaking news is the announcement that Philippines Mark John Yap will fight in Bangkok later this month for the WBC Lightweight crown.
Cagayan de Oro product Yap will challenge Thailand champion Apichet Petchmanee (15-1) for the belt that he secured back in late 2022. Petchmanee has been very dominant at home, and suffered his lone points loss abroad at Korakuen Hall against the outstanding Japanese boxer Katsuya Yasuda (10-0)
Mark John Yap has been a revelation since fighting Charly Suarez in Manila one year ago. He had previously done his best work at Bantamweight and was contemplating retirement, but rose to meet Suarez at 130lb.
Despite losing that contest, Yap looked in great touch, and is unbeaten in 4 subsequent fights.
He has defied the stigma of increasing weight, but Petchmanee looms as his first serious test at 135lb.
Mark John Yap v Apichet Petchmanee
WBC ASIA TITLE
September 30th Bangkok, Thailand
**Courtesy of Cocky Buffalo Promotions
Cagayan de Oro son Mark John Yap dominates before a third round stoppage over Bangladesh boxer Hasan Sikdar.
Elorde boxer Yap was originally scheduled to fight a high level opponent here at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, but injuries and other fight card changes meant that featherweight Sikdar stepped up at short notice.
Great job by the Bangladesh boxer to survive early, but Yap's relaxed ring control had his rival constantly on the back foot and under a lot of pressure.
Watch for the change of gears in round three when Trainer Jetro Pabustan tells Yap to put the foot down on the accelerator and put an end to it.
ENJOY !
#cockybuffalopromotions #vbo #proboxing #vietnamboxing
The Philippines Mark John Yap wins with a third round stoppage.
Philippines Mark "the Journey Man" Yap weighed just inside the 61kg Lightweight limit at today's Vietnam weigh in.
Yap will fight at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino tomorrow night against Hasan Sikder of Bangladesh. He appears on a big international card featuring nine countries, with the two main events showcasing Vietnam champions Nguyễn Văn Hải and Sam Minh Phát.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/2286202895100626
There is a big international event in Vietnam this Saturday night, and the Philippines will be proudly represented by a killer by the name of Mark John Yap.
The Vietnam show will also be iconic in the regard of top boxing countries meeting there to discuss the sport and forge cooperation agreements.
GAB Chairman Richard Clarin is flying out this morning, flanked by entourage Jacky and Rex.
The photographer is well known Philippines film star and model Jetro Pabustan.
VSP wishes you all a safe flight and highly successful trip.
Former opponents Mark John Yap and Junior Raka are now united with a common goal - to seek and destroy foreign opponents this Saturday night in Vietnam.
The Philippines and Papua New Guinea guns will appear at a big international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
Their matches will be watched by bosses of Asia's top boxing commissions, including Richard Clarin and some team members from the Games and Amusement Board in the Philippines.
#vspboxing #TheGrandHoTramStrip #cockybuffalo #cockybuffalopromotions #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
VIETNAM GET READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
THE "YAP ATTACK" BACK IN VIETNAM
Philippines fighter Mark John Yap was a recent visitor to VSP, headlining our May event against a future star named Nguyễn Ha Minh.
That was Yap's first hit out since scoring a knockout win in Manila in January, and despite signs of ring rust, all the telltale signs of a very dangerous man were on show.
The Mindanao menace returns to Vietnam next week, and he has mayhem on his mind.
Do not miss seeing this great fighter in Vũng Tàu next week - there will be blood !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions
Mark John Yap has proved to be one of the best performed pinoys on the international circuit in recent years, and plans to add to his imposing record on the road in Vietnam this month.
The boxer affectionately dubbed "The Journey Man", and more recently as "Fat Yap", appears on a big show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, amongst a strong lineup of fighters from many different countries.
Yap was impressive in winning in Manila in January, then followed up with a three month break to welcome the birth of his first child Yuri. He has slowly worked back into fight shape, and performed in an exhibition bout in Ho Chi Minh City last month.
And it was trademark Yap !
Despite getting off to a slow start, Mark John Yap proved too physical for national youth boxer Nguyễn Hà Minh, dropping him twice in the final round.
Yap will be looking for an emphatic showing on July 15th, before eyeing off bigger matches later this year.
Some snapshots from the December event in Vietnam. Some great fights that night.
Big event coming this July 15th.
Mark John Yap will be back, also Nguyễn Văn Hải and a special appearance from Papua New Guinea hard man Junior Kauko Raka.
MIndanao's boxing legend Mark John Yap is showing no signs of slowing, and will be back in the ring again at a big international event in Vietnam next month.
Yap considered retirement after returning from Japan, which was shortly followed by the pandemic - but was coaxed to lace up one more time in a WBA Title match with Charly Suarez.
His performance was outstanding, and he followed it up with two quality wins shortly after.
The Journey Man was on a short break since January, after welcoming the birth of baby daughter Yuri, and he put on some kilos in that time.
Yap has been on a six week training camp, and competed in an exhibition bout last month with Vietnam youth team member Nguyễn Hà Minh. Despite looking "rusty" early in the match, he dropped his opponent twice in the final round to etch an impressive victory.
Having just recently arriving in Manila, Yap has been under the tutelage of Jetro Pabustan, who put him through a pads session today.
Mark John Yap will fight at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vietnam on Saturday July 15th. You can watch the match here live.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/3542723195972770
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP VS MOHON ALI
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #bangladeshboxing
Former combatants Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka will meet again in July next month, but this time as friends - not foes !!
Yap and Raka shared the ring in Manila in late 2022, where the Papua New Guinea embraced the ominous task on just a few weeks notice. It was a great fight, and both boxers showed the sort of doggedness which will make them compulsory viewing in Vietnam.
July 15th sees the duo take on top rated foreigners in the super featherweight division.
These two stars will spearhead a big international show at the Grand Ho Tram in Vũng Tàu, and is made possible by Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Mark John Yap is heading from Cagayan de Oro bound for Manila tonight, ahead of a fight date listed in Vietnam on July 15th.
Yap will do some intense sparring in Manila in preparation for his appearance on an all-international boxer event, which will take place at the Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on the coastal strip of Vung Tau.
The Mindanao boxer commonly known as the Journey Man, the Yap Attack, and even the Fat Yap, will fight a subcontinent boxer optimistically dubbed The Killer !
Full fight card coming soon.
Vietnam - here we come !
The Yap Attack and Head Coach Jetro Pabustan are headed to Ho Tram Vietnam this July, as they look to reinforce the stocks of Mark John Yap on the world scene.
It is expected that the Philippines star will appear on an all international event, and will fight a young top rated fighter from the Middle East.
Familiar faces to VSP followers, Nguyễn Văn Hải and Junior Kauko Raka, will also compete on the Cocky Buffalo show.
Mark John Yap will return to Manila from CDO for sparring in 10 days time, on the back of an impressive exhibition performance in Ho Chi Minh City late last month.
More news breaking soon.
The Philippines Mark John Yap shows his poise and experience in his excellent win over Vietnam's national team prospect Nguyễn Hà Minh.
Boss Alejandro Belonguel watches two of his prize students in sparring today at VSP.
Doan Hieu and Mark John Yap were impressive winners on Saturday at VSP PRO, yet found the energy to get back in the ring today for some friendly rounds.
The Philippines visitor Yap heads home tomorrow night, but will return to Vietnam on July 15th for a big pro event in Ho Tram.
Mindanao's Mark John Yap wound back the clock in Ho Chi Minh City tonight, with a brutal display over national team prospect Nguyễn Hà Minh.
Yap was returning from a couple of months break from the sport, celebrating the birth of his first daughter Yuri early this year. It was noted at the weigh-in for the Lightweight 61kg clash, that Yap looked a little soft next to his taller and ripped Vietnam opponent.
The Journey Man was given a warm reception by the crowd, who were divided as to how a pro veteran would match up with the slick Vietnam boxer in a highly paced 4 round format.
Nguyễn Hà Minh is only 20 years of age, but is a highly touted member of the Vietnam team,
He is tall, and boxes with beautiful range, has fast hands, and he seamlessly angles between stances to land counters with ridiculous ease.
The first two rounds were arguably won by the local star. The Philippines Yap pressed constantly, but his timing and distance were a little off, and Minh often punished his enterprise with counters.
Despite being outlanded, Yap was undeterred, and always looked significantly dangerous.
Cracks started to appear in the armour of the Vietnam star in the third, as Yap began to find his range, and the momentum shifted noticeably. The Journey Man was walking through Minh's efforts with impunity, and was really chopping his rival to the body. Yap was relentless, and went "old school" brutal in the final round, where he dropped his Vietnam opponent with sadistic attacks to the torso. Nguyễn Hà Minh stoicism saw him meet the final bell, yet had it been a longer bout, the stoppage was perilously near.
Mark John Yap was simply devastating tonight, and produced such a dominant performance on foreign soil, that he was hailed as the winner by unanimous decision.
It was a credible showing by hot national team member Nguyễn Hà Minh, and he acknowledged that Yap's strength and experience overwhelmed him in the home stretch. He will benefit a lot from his encounter with a hardened professional.
But the big news is - YAP IS BACK !
The evergreen killer from Cagayan de Oro will return to the ring in a big, soon to be announced fight, this coming July.
Trận đấu chính của sự kiện tối nay VSP PRO #4 ngày 27/5/2023 "Chưa bao giờ cháy đến vậy "
Trong trận đấu tới đây, Mark John Yap đến từ Philippines sẽ đối đầu với võ sĩ Nguyễn Hà Minh đến từ Việt Nam là một trận đấu đầy kịch tính và hấp dẫn. Cả hai võ sĩ đều có kinh nghiệm và kỹ thuật tốt.
Võ sĩ Mark John Yap là một trong những võ sĩ quyền Anh của Philippines. Anh đã có nhiều chiến thắng ấn tượng trong sự nghiệp của mình. Yap là một đối thủ khó nhai cho những ai đối đầu với anh ấy, anh ta có kình nghiệm, sức mạnh, tốc độ, lẫn kĩ thuật. Mạnh mẽ đến mức nhiều người gọi anh là " Tin Xấu " vì nếu bạn so găng cùng anh ta thì đó là tin xấu cho bạn.
Về Nguyễn Hà Minh đến từ Việt Nam cũng là một võ sĩ quyền Anh, một tuyển thủ quốc gia. Anh đã có nhiều trận đấu thành công và được đánh giá cao về kỹ thuật và sự thông minh. Anh ta sẽ sử dụng chiến thuật nào để có thể đối đầu với hàng loạt đòn tấn công của Yap ?
Hãy cùng đến và dùng món " khai vị " là 6 trận đấu tuyệt vời của chúng tôi, và rồi là " món chính " trận đấu thứ 7. Ai sẽ là người chiến thắng trong trận đấu này vẫn còn là dấu hỏi lớn. Hãy để hai võ sĩ trả lời câu hỏi này vào tối nay.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
đến 147 đường Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, TP Hồ Chí Minh, để có thể tận mắt xem các trận đấu của sự kiện này nhé
Khán giả cũng có thể xem trực tuyến tại VTV Cab, youtube VSP Boxing, hoặc Facebook VSP Boxing.
Elorde's Mark John Yap headlines at VSP PRO next Saturday night in Ho Chi Minh City.
Get ready for the YAP ATTACK !!
Philippines Mark John Yap heads to Ho Chi Minh City to take on Vietnam national team young gun Nguyễn Ha Minh.
Watch all the action here live from :
Vietnam 6pm
Philippines 7pm
Australia 9pm
Nguyễn Ha Minh - Vietnam national team 60kg
Mark John Yap - remorseless and sadistic killer
Where there's smoke there's fire !!!!!!!
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
Cagayan de Oro star Mark John Yap has seen just about everything in a professional career dating back to 2007.
The career traverses 16 years, multiple weight classes and countries, and 32 wins that include many prestigious regional honors such as 3 OPBF straps.
But what has characterized Yap, and remains omnipresent, is that the guy is at the core, a surgical serial killer.
He knows how to inflict damage - and he excels at the task !
Mark John Yap ventures to Ho Chi Minh City next Saturday, where he takes on Vietnam national team star Nguyễn Ha Minh.
Minh is a heavier weight class boxer, but you can be sure, this will make precious little difference to Yap.
Brutality is his game !
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
Philippines Mark John Yap heads to Vietnam next month to tackle the very deadly Nguyễn Văn Duong.
Yap is a winner of 32 bouts and is Philippines #2 behind Charly Suarez.
Nguyễn Văn Duong is Vietnam's first Olympics representative since 1988. He lost in the round of 16 to the Mongolian pro who damaged Ryan Garcia in sparring for Gervonta Davis.
VSP PRO @ VSP Boxing Gym HCMC
Saturday May 27th
Vietnam's best boxer Nguyễn Văn Duong will meet Philippines champion Mark John Yap in an exhibition bout at VSP Gym in HCMC on May 27th.
The Vietnam star will likely be in excellent fitness for the proposed match, after havingthe benefits competing at the SEA Games in early May.
Philippines killer Mark John Yap will visit Vietnam for a training camp at VSP Gym, in preparation for a big fight this coming July. The winner of an incredible 32 professional bouts, Yap is a 3x OPBF champion in Japan, a country where he was unbeaten for three years prior to the pandemic. Mark John Yap is a dangerous task for the Vietnam fighter. His most recent win was in January, where he jumped two weight divisions and savagely knocked out the very durable Leonardo Doronio.
Mark John Yap makes a guest appearance in Vietnam next month, when he introduces local champion and Olympian Nguyễn Văn Duong to his unique brand of violence.
DUONG TO BATTLE PHILIPPINES CHAMP ?
Vietnam's premier fighter Nguyễn Văn Duong hasn't seen much ring time since the Olympics, and will make a return for the SEA Games in early May. But his lack of recent competition has many wondering if the Bac Ninh boxer still has what it takes to fight at the highest level.
Philippines champion Mark John Yap will visit Vietnam in May for a training camp, and former 3X OPBF titleholder is open to working with the local talent while he is here.
A winner of 32 professional fights, Yap tore the heart out of Japan's feared Bantamweight division, going unbeaten in 10 fights over a 3 year period. His most recent fight was in January of this year, where he jumped two weight classes and knocked out former Manny Pacquiao sparring mate Leonardo Doronio.
Asked whether he would be open to an exhibition bout whilst he is in Vietnam, potentially against a killer like Nguyễn Văn Duong, the Philippines star smiled and said :
" Sure, why not, it sounds like a lot of fun ! Let's make it happen !! "
Cagayan de Oro fight legend Mark John Yap had a busy start to the new year.
Yap finished 2022 with a torrid exhibition bout in Ho Tram Vietnam, followed up shortly after with an explosive win in Manila against hard man Leonardo Doronio. But amongst the close scheduling of fights, he also experienced the blessing of the birth of his baby daughter Yuri.
The Yap family took some much needed "down time" and this week, the Mindanao star has resumed light training again.
It is expected that fans will see Mark John Yap back in the ring perhaps late April or early May.
Can't wait !!!
Mark John Yap opened his new year account in stunning fashion, scoring a stoppage win over what appeared to be a very good version of Philippines Lightweight Leonardo Doronio.
Unable to secure a suitable 130 opponent for his first hitout of the year, Yap opted to jump a weight class and get a physical exam with the vastly experienced and durable Doronio.
It was very noticeable at the weigh-in, that aside from being the much larger boxer, Leonardo Doronio was in the best physical shape that he has been in for a very long time.
And he performed very well, while it lasted, and we look forward to seeing Doronio back again this year to see what he can produce.
But for Mark John Yap, it really was a patient yet lethal execution of a necessary task, and certainly showed shades of the brutality that he inflicted on Japan's best fighters prior to the pandemic.
Watch the full fight here, and you will see this dog has got a bite worse than his bark.
Yap Yap !
GAB boss Mr. Richard Clarin and VBO Mr. Lim Song sign an historic cooperation agreement to further professional boxing in Vietnam.
The signing aligns the common goals of both countries to make the sport even greater in the region.
Vietnam are in awe of the rich history of boxing in the Philippines, and their vast experience in administration.
The Vietnam fans love the exciting fight style of pinoys, and see them as an essential component of their international events.
#cockybuffalopromotions #TheGrandHoTramStrip #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #cockybuffalo #boxingvietnam
One of the great things about boxing is the people you meet and the friends that you make.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino is a huge venue, but you never know who you will bump into !!
Earlier today Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka met Vietnam's champion Nguyễn Văn Hải while walking the halls. Both boxers have big fights tomorrow night - Raka takes on China's Xiao Tao Su, and Hai meets unbeaten Abdul Mottalib.
Flanking the boxers are Team Raka trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
#cockybuffalopromotions #cockybuffalo #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam #TheGrandHoTramStrip #vspboxing
Looks like it, but no !
It's the trio of Elorde boys Allie Cañega, Erson Trinidad, and Dann Dacles - ready to rip and tear at the Blow by Blow show tomorrow in Manila.
If looks could kill, these boys will be in jail after tomorrow's event !
Good luck to all the boxers competing tomorrow.
There is a big international event in Vietnam this Saturday night, and the Philippines will be proudly represented by a killer by the name of Mark John Yap.
The Vietnam show will also be iconic in the regard of top boxing countries meeting there to discuss the sport and forge cooperation agreements.
GAB Chairman Richard Clarin is flying out this morning, flanked by entourage Jacky and Rex.
The photographer is well known Philippines film star and model Jetro Pabustan.
VSP wishes you all a safe flight and highly successful trip.
Team Raka have arrived in Vietnam, and first stop was VSP Gym in HCMC where they discussed all things boxing.
The team of (from left) Junior Raka, Ephraim Montoru, Martin Liri and Nelson John met with local boss Mr. Lim Song.
Raka will fight on Saturday night against China's Xiao Tao Su - a former #1 and WBO Oriental champion.
Former opponents Mark John Yap and Junior Raka are now united with a common goal - to seek and destroy foreign opponents this Saturday night in Vietnam.
The Philippines and Papua New Guinea guns will appear at a big international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
Their matches will be watched by bosses of Asia's top boxing commissions, including Richard Clarin and some team members from the Games and Amusement Board in the Philippines.
#vspboxing #TheGrandHoTramStrip #cockybuffalo #cockybuffalopromotions #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
Junior Kauko Raka en route to Vietnam, couldn't resist the temptation to drop into one of the many famous fight gyms in the Philippines.
Pictured here with trainer Nelson John, Raka reportedly looked great on pads and is already on weight.
HE'S READY TO RUMBLE !
Raka takes on China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su this Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
Papua New Guinea iron man Junior Kauko Raka pictured just moments ago.
Raka is in Manila getting some miles in the legs before flying out to Vietnam on Wednesday.
The "PNG Prodigy" will meet former China #1 and WBO Oriental title holder Xiao Tao Su on Saturday night at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vũng Tàu.
#vspboxing #cockybuffalo #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #cockybuffalopromotions #vbo #TheGrandHoTramStrip
Papua New Guinea's granite fisted Junior Raka and his team are officially Vietnam bound !
The squad are en route via Manila, where they will stay till Wednesday before leaving for Ho Chi Minh City.
The PNG Prodigy Raka has the task of dismantling China's WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su at a big international show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino next Saturday night.
The Wolverine heads to the Esforta Arena Hachioji in Tokyo today, pitted against hot young local prospect Kai Watanabe (9-1).
The Japanese bout will see Estrada jump up a weight class to Super Featherweight, so Watanabe will prove a "Tall" order.
JonJon Estrada is one of the toughest and hardest hitters in Philippines boxing, so he should have his share of fun in there despite the ominous task.
VIETNAM GET READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
Papua New Guinea's "PRODIGY" Junior Kauko Raka just touched down in Manila.
There are no direct flights from PNG to Vietnam, so it's an opportunity to say hello to old friends and visit Manila's famous Elorde gyms.
Raka and team will fly out to Ho Chi Minh City this Wednesday.
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
PAPUA NEW GUINEA BOXER COMES TO HCMC
Ladies and gentlemen - Mr. Junior Kauko Raka
11 fights - 9 wins - 7 Knockouts
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 3: SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-6R
XIAO TAO SU
VS
JR KAUKO RAKA
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #VSPPromotions #boxingvietnam
Saturday July 15th - Book now !!
THE "YAP ATTACK" BACK IN VIETNAM
Philippines fighter Mark John Yap was a recent visitor to VSP, headlining our May event against a future star named Nguyễn Ha Minh.
That was Yap's first hit out since scoring a knockout win in Manila in January, and despite signs of ring rust, all the telltale signs of a very dangerous man were on show.
The Mindanao menace returns to Vietnam next week, and he has mayhem on his mind.
Do not miss seeing this great fighter in Vũng Tàu next week - there will be blood !
WBO GLOBAL AT THE GRAND HO TRAM
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP
VS
HASAN SIKDAR
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions
SỰ TRỞ LẠI MẠNH MẼ
Sau chiến thắng trước đối thủ đến từ Indonesia Heri Purnomo ngày 30/7/2022, đến nay đã gần tròn một năm Sẳm Minh Phát không thượng đài boxing chuyên nghiệp.
Ngày 15/7/2023, Sẳm Minh Phát trở lại sàn đấu gặp đối thủ đến từ Trung Quốc Dian Xing Zhu tại sự kiện boxing chuyên nghiệp WBO Global Prelude. Người chiến thắng ở trận đấu này sẽ có xuất tranh đai WBO toàn cầu.
#ithethaovn #vothuatithethao #boxing #wbo #SamMinhPhat #boxstudio #boxingvietnam #cockybuffalo #vsppromotions #vbo #vspboxing #boxingvietnam
Mark John Yap has proved to be one of the best performed pinoys on the international circuit in recent years, and plans to add to his imposing record on the road in Vietnam this month.
The boxer affectionately dubbed "The Journey Man", and more recently as "Fat Yap", appears on a big show at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino, amongst a strong lineup of fighters from many different countries.
Yap was impressive in winning in Manila in January, then followed up with a three month break to welcome the birth of his first child Yuri. He has slowly worked back into fight shape, and performed in an exhibition bout in Ho Chi Minh City last month.
And it was trademark Yap !
Despite getting off to a slow start, Mark John Yap proved too physical for national youth boxer Nguyễn Hà Minh, dropping him twice in the final round.
Yap will be looking for an emphatic showing on July 15th, before eyeing off bigger matches later this year.
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vsp #vspboxing #vsppromotions #boxingvietnam
They breed them with big hearts in PNG !
Getting opportunities to fight in international events is never easy, and if you're based in PNG, even more so !
Friends and supporters of Junior Kauko Raka, and believers in the great sport of boxing, assembled last night to celebrate his impending task in Vietnam.
They also all contributed their valuable time, energy and money to make Raka the first professional boxer ever to step foot into the south east asian destination.
Big thanks go to promoter Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for showing the foresight and faith in the PNG Prodigy !
Also, massive thanks to the friends in PNG who really stepped up last night :
The Minister of Internal Security, and Governor of Bougainville HON Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. who took the lead to put in support by paying for the venue, and to kindly host the dinner fundraising.
And the support from these generous companies:
1- JOMIK Group Company
2- PANG Family
3- NCDC Sport Desk
4- NCDC Governor
5- PNG Sport Foundation
6- NCD Provincial Health Authority
Also, Junior Kauko Raka has a special shout out to his manager Betrand Vagelo and his admin Ezra Bonny, for making last night's celebration happen, for both him and the whole Raka team.
I'm optimistic that the combined efforts of all will pave the way for international opportunities for young PNG stars of the future.
Big congratulations to the people of Papua New Guinea for supporting great role models. Bravo !!
Have you ever met a GENUINE mountain bred Papua New Guinean warrior ?
No ?
Well that's because Junior Kauko Raka and his team will be the first ever to set foot on Vietnam soil !!
Please make the Raka team welcome at VSP when they arrive in the week of 10th July, before heading to Vũng Tàu on the 13th.
The Papua New Guinea hard man has the task of dismantling former Chinese #1 and WBO Oriental champion Xiao Tao Su.
The match will take place at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on Saturday July 15th.
BÀ RỊA - VŨNG TÀUVõ sĩ của lò Cocky Buffalo Sẳm Minh Phát thượng đài với tay đấm số một Trung Quốc Dian Xing Zhu tại sự kiện boxing chuyên nghiệp WBO Global Prelude ngày 15/7.
Đây là sự kiện do Cocky Buffalo phối hợp cùng Tổ chức quyền Anh thế giới (WBO) tổ chức tại The Grand Ho Tram Strip. Màn so tài giữa "ốc tiêu" Minh Phát và Zhu thuộc hạng minimumweight (48kg) là một trong những trận thư hùng tâm điểm của sự kiện. Người thắng trận này sẽ lấy suất tranh đai WBO toàn cầu.
Minh Phát trong trận thắng Lý Diệu Phước ở giải WBO IBF 4 Titles Match tại The Grand Hồ Tràm ngày 23/4. Ảnh: Cocky Buffalo
Trận đấu hứa hẹn hấp dẫn khi cả hai võ sĩ đều sở hữu chuỗi thành tích ấn tượng. Minh Phát hiện có chín trận thắng, trong đó có bảy bằng knock-out, qua 13 lần thượng đài. Anh được trang BoxRec xếp hạng 1 sao cùng vị trí thứ 73 thế giới ở hạng minimumweight.
Zhu được đánh giá cao hơn nhờ tỷ lệ knock-out ấn tượng. Võ sĩ Trung Quốc thắng tám, trong đó có bảy bằng knock-out, qua chín trận chuyên nghiệp. Anh hiện là võ sĩ số một Trung Quốc ở hạng cân minimumweight.
Trên bảng xếp hạng thế giới, Zhu xếp trên Minh Phát 24 bậc và được trang BoxRec đánh giá ở cấp độ 2 sao. Zhu từng giành đai vô địch WBC châu Á vào năm 2019. Với bảng thành tích ấn tượng, Zhu chắc chắn sẽ là thử thách khó khăn cho tay đấm chủ nhà.
Zhu (phải) trong nghi thức chạm mặt đối thủ Indonesia Forlando Calderon trước trận đấu thuộc giải WBC Asia Youth 2019 tại Trung Quốc. Ảnh: WBC Asia
Võ sĩ nổi tiếng khác của Việt Nam là Nguyễn Văn Hải cũng góp mặt tại sự kiện WBO Global Prelude sắp tới ở hạng cân Super Featherweight 58,97 kg. Tay đấm sinh năm 1988, từng bảy lần vô địch quốc gia sẽ so găng Abdul Motalib - đối thủ Bangladesh có biệt danh "Sát thủ Thầm lặng" với chuỗi 5 trận toàn thắng.
WBO Global Prelude còn có một số trận khác hứa hẹn hấp dẫn. Võ sĩ 17 tuổi mang hai dòng máu Việt - Hàn Lee Juyeong sẽ so tài đối thủ Indonesia Dedy Imprax. Võ sĩ Philippines từng đánh gần 50 trận nhà nghề Mark John Yap thượng đài với Mohon Ali (Bangladesh). Và võ sĩ kỳ cựu người Papua New Guinea - Junior Kauko Raka so găng cùng Xiao Tao Su, tay đấm Trung Quốc 26 tuổi đang có 11 chiến thắng, trong đó có sáu bằng knock-out, sau 14 lần thượng đài.
Some snapshots from the December event in Vietnam. Some great fights that night.
Big event coming this July 15th.
Mark John Yap will be back, also Nguyễn Văn Hải and a special appearance from Papua New Guinea hard man Junior Kauko Raka.
This PNG powerhouse boxer is built like a tank and he is one tough warrior that represents the unrelenting spirit of his countryman. Junior Raka makes history as the first PNG boxer to ever fight in Vietnam.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/1081798786128620
MIndanao's boxing legend Mark John Yap is showing no signs of slowing, and will be back in the ring again at a big international event in Vietnam next month.
Yap considered retirement after returning from Japan, which was shortly followed by the pandemic - but was coaxed to lace up one more time in a WBA Title match with Charly Suarez.
His performance was outstanding, and he followed it up with two quality wins shortly after.
The Journey Man was on a short break since January, after welcoming the birth of baby daughter Yuri, and he put on some kilos in that time.
Yap has been on a six week training camp, and competed in an exhibition bout last month with Vietnam youth team member Nguyễn Hà Minh. Despite looking "rusty" early in the match, he dropped his opponent twice in the final round to etch an impressive victory.
Having just recently arriving in Manila, Yap has been under the tutelage of Jetro Pabustan, who put him through a pads session today.
Mark John Yap will fight at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino in Vietnam on Saturday July 15th. You can watch the match here live.
https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/3542723195972770
SAY WELCOME TO THE NEW KIDS IN TOWN
The hard hitting Ronnie Baldonado ushers in some young blood fresh onto the Manila boxing scene !
Junny Bugas- 105lbs (wearing red), Michael Orano-122lbs (abs+tatts), and Noel Emata-135lbs
are all new to the Jetro Pabustan stable - and are ones to keep an eye out for in the future.
As for Ronnie, well he has plans of his own. This mad dog will be fighting in Japan this coming July against the unbeaten Yoshiki Takei.
Sat 6:00 PM | July 15, 2023
BOUT 5 : SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT - 59 KG-8R
MARK JOHN YAP VS MOHON ALI
#CockyBuffaloPromotions #CockyBuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #Proboxing #VBO #VTVcab #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #VSPPromotions #bangladeshboxing
Chia sẻ với ithethao.vn, HLV trưởng ĐT Boxing Nam Việt Nam cho biết: "Bùi Phước Tùng và Nguyễn Văn Đương là hai võ sĩ được BHL và chuyên gia đặt kỳ vọng sẽ giành huy chương ở ASIAD 19 tới."
Ở SEA Games 32 vừa qua, Bùi Phước Tùng có chiến thắng K.O cực kỳ chóng vánh trước Atichai Phoemsak - võ sĩ rất mạnh đến từ Thái Lan để giành tấm HCV hạng cân 71kg. Đáng chú ý, Phước Tùng giành được HCV ngay trong lần đầu thi đấu tại một kỳ Đại hội thể thao Đông Nam Á.
Nguyễn Văn Đương là cái tên quen thuộc của làng boxing Việt Nam. Tay đấm sinh năm 1996 là võ sĩ Việt Nam đầu tiên vào đến vòng 16 tay đấm ở olympic. Với kinh nghiệm thi đấu quốc tế dày dặn, Văn Đương được xem là niềm hy vọng lớn nhất của Boxing nam Việt Nam tại ASIAD 19.
#ithethaovn #vothuatithethao #boxing #boxingvietnam #ASIAD19
Nguyễn Văn Hải đối đầu võ sĩ bí ẩn tại sự kiện Boxing nhà nghề WBO Global Prelude
Liên tiếp thượng đài để hướng tới mục tiêu tranh đai, Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ chạm trán một đối thủ đặc biệt ít thông tin ở trận đấu tại WBO Global Prelude sắp tới.
Theo lịch trình đã được công bố, tay đấm Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ có trận đấu chuyên nghiệp thứ ba trong năm 2023 ở sự kiện WBO Global Prelude vào ngày 16 tháng 7. Tại đây, anh sẽ chạm trán võ sĩ người Bangladesh - Abdul Mottalib, trận đấu diễn ra trong vòng 8 hiệp ở hạng cân 61kg.
Về cơ bản, Abdul Mottalib không được đánh giá quá cao so với Nguyễn Văn Hải khi võ sĩ này chỉ xếp hạng 1022 thế giới, kém xa so với cấp độ 2 sao cùng vị trí 152 thế giới của Nguyễn Văn Hải. Thành tích 5 trận toàn thắng của Mottalib cũng đều diễn ra tại quê nhà Bangladesh khi anh chưa đối đầu tay đấm nào thực sự đáng chú ý. Trái lại, những thông tin ít ỏi cũng tạo ra phần nào khó khăn trong việc tìm hiểu về đối thủ của Văn Hải.
Dù vậy, đối với Nguyễn Văn Hải, đây vẫn là một trận đấu quan trọng nếu anh muốn đạt đủ điều kiện tham gia một trận tranh đai khu vực, đó chính là có được chuỗi thắng liên tiếp trong thời gian sớm nhất.
Sau hai chiến thắng khá dễ dàng trước Paisal Panjaitan tại Fortunes of War (12/2022) và Hà Minh Tuấn tại VSP Pro 3 (3/2023), Nguyễn Văn Hải đã đánh bại đối thủ người Trung Quốc - Tô Tiểu Đào trong sự kiện hồi tháng 4 tại Hồ Tràm, Vũng Tàu. Chiến thắng trước tay đấm từng giành dan hiệu IBO-WBO Phương Đông đã giúp Nguyễn Văn Hải nhảy vọt trên bảng xếp hạng thế giới, mở đường cho cơ hội tranh đai.
Trong trận đấu kéo dài 8 hiệp tại WBO Global Prelude, Nguyễn Văn Hải sẽ phải tìm ra lối đánh của Abdul Mottalib, đưa ra đấu pháp thích hợp và đặc biệt là đảm bảo an toàn tối đa cho bản thân, để có thể chuẩn bị phong độ tốt nhất cho những mục tiêu cuối năm.
Bên cạnh trận đấu giữa Nguyễn Văn Hải và Abdul Mottalib, tại WBO Global Prelude, võ sĩ Sẳm Minh Phát của Việt Nam sẽ xuất hiện trong trận đấu chính của sự kiện ngày 16 tháng 7 tới đây, khi anh đối đầu với võ sĩ người Trung Quốc DianXing Zhu. Dựa trên kế hoạch được công bố, Minh Phát và DianXing Zhu sẽ đối đầu ở hạng cân light-flyweight (49kg) để giành suất tranh danh hiệu WBO Global.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino has already consolidated it's status as Vietnam's "GO TO" destination for live boxing entertainment, and Cocky Buffalo have assembled another great show there for Saturday July 15th.
More colour, more glamour, more action - and more of the expect the unexpected !!
Vietnam, South Korea, Philippines, Russia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Bangladesh, China and Mongolia come together to make July a truly international feast of boxing talent.
If you're in Vietnam, this is a fantastic option for a weekend getaway, and the Grand Ho Tram will do you a fan friendly deal.
Hotline for tickets: Call 0254 378 8022
Former combatants Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka will meet again in July next month, but this time as friends - not foes !!
Yap and Raka shared the ring in Manila in late 2022, where the Papua New Guinea embraced the ominous task on just a few weeks notice. It was a great fight, and both boxers showed the sort of doggedness which will make them compulsory viewing in Vietnam.
July 15th sees the duo take on top rated foreigners in the super featherweight division.
These two stars will spearhead a big international show at the Grand Ho Tram in Vũng Tàu, and is made possible by Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Junior Kauko Raka answered a call from VSP Promotions in late 2O22. Mark John Yap had just resumed boxing after the pandemic, and despite a points loss to King's Warrior Charly, he looked as skilled and dangerous as ever. So much so, we were unable to find anyone in the Philippines willing to fight him !
The Papua New Guinea star begged for the chance to fight, and in spite of a ridiculously short time to prepare, gave Mark John Yap the really hard fight that was needed. Junior Raka won a legion of new fans that day, including the man known as the Journey Man:
"I hit him with some great shots, and he just walked through them. I bruised my hands he was built like a rock !"
And how did he rate the power of the PNG boxer ?
"I work hard on my defense, but he has skills, and when he landed - he has heavy hands. I ask my team to check his gloves - it felt like he had iron in there !
Junior Raka will be a hard fight for any boxer. "
And so it is. Raka takes on Xiao Tao Su of China on July 15th in Ho Tram Vietnam. A boxer built from the same cloth as the PNG man.
Xiao Tao Su was China's #1 ranked fighter prior to the pandemic, winning a WBO Oriental title by savage knockout in the process. He resumed to lose narrowly to Vietnam's #1 61kg Nguyễn Văn Hải, and returns to his more favoured 59kg category for his assignment against Junior Kauko Raka.
This is a huge fight, where both boxers come to fight, and both carry lots of skills and heavy power. While the Chinese boxer will start overwhelming favourite, if you listen to the experienced words of Mark John Yap, then Junior Kauko Raka is about to deliver a firestorm to the sunny shores of Ho Tram Vietnam.
Big thanks to Mr. Sang Bum Kim and friends at Cocky Buffalo for making this great match up possible.
International fight action live from the coastal strip of Vũng Tàu Vietnam this July.
Boxers of special interest to VSP followers are Philippines' Mark John Yap, Vietnam's Nguyễn Văn Hải and PNG hands of stone Junior Kauko Raka.
The show is been promoted by our friend Mr. Sang Bum Kim and our friends at Cocky Buffalo.
Four Bangladeshi professional boxers will compete in three different pro boxing tournaments respectively in Australia and Vietnam between June 30 to July 15.
Joynul Islam Joy will fight for the silver title in the WBC Australasia Welterweight in Sydney, Australia on June 30 while Mohon Ali will feature in the WBC Australasia Featherweight in Melbourne, Australia on July 7.
Meanwhile, both Abdul Mottalib and Hasan Sikder will compete in another pro boxing tournament in Vietnam on July 15. All four boxers are expected to fly to their tournament destinations next week.
The details were disclosed during a press meet held at the Bangladesh Olympic Association Auditorium in the capital on Thursday.
Md Asaduzzaman, founder and chairman of Bangladesh Professional Boxing Society was the main speaker during the programme and he was hopeful that his boxers would be able to win their respective matches in the upcoming tournaments.
“Since the inception of our pro boxing society three years ago, our boxers have performed exceptionally well in several international competitions both home and abroad. I hope that they will continue the same performance in the upcoming tournaments as well,” Asaduzzaman said.
BPBS Vice-chairman Md Anisuzzaman was also present during the programme.
#cockybuffalo #vietnamboxing #VSPPromotions #vsppro #vsp #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #bangladeshboxing
The "Hanoi Hitman" Nguyễn Văn Hải will join the Philippines Mark John Yap in a quality international event in Vietnam on July 15th.
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino will host the show, and will be showcase boxers from Korea, Philippines, Indonesia, China, Russia, Bangladesh, Mongolia and of course, Vietnam.
This will be the third appearance for the Vietnam legend, and after two previous wins against strong fighters, he is optimistic about his chances.
"Hải thinks three is a lucky number !
My opponent is unbeaten, and I look forward to the challenge. But I believe in my power, and it is my plan to go for the kill !"
Mark John Yap will also be of big interest on this card, as will former Philippines visitor Junior Kauko Raka, who ironically faced Yap at very short notice in late 2022.
Some great fights are planned for this event in Ho Tram Vietnam on Saturday July 15th.
Fight card announcements coming soon.
Mark John Yap is heading from Cagayan de Oro bound for Manila tonight, ahead of a fight date listed in Vietnam on July 15th.
Yap will do some intense sparring in Manila in preparation for his appearance on an all-international boxer event, which will take place at the Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on the coastal strip of Vung Tau.
The Mindanao boxer commonly known as the Journey Man, the Yap Attack, and even the Fat Yap, will fight a subcontinent boxer optimistically dubbed The Killer !
Full fight card coming soon.
Here are the results of VSP PRO 5
Yes, it's rainy season, but Saturday nights in Saigon are now getting hotter.
HOW HOT ?
Well VSP PRO is back again - TONIGHT !!
Action starts at 6pm, live from VSP Gym.
Please arrive early !!!
Rocks or diamonds ! - that's how fights between two southpaws can go, but with some luck, FernandoTagpuno jr and Bryan Tamayo may just be one of the best bouts at "Night of Champions" tomorrow in Parañaque.
Tagpuno Jr has been on a hot winning streak, scoring 5 straight victories after enduring two narrow losses in debut matches.
But clearly "El Cazador" was a good learner, as his losses were to top prospects Jonniel Laurente and Daniel Nicolas, and he has been unbeaten since.
Bryan Tamayo enters the ring the more experienced of the two, having scored 8 quality wins, and he also boasts plenty of power.
The tall and rangy fighter has good skills too, and will surely test Tagpuno from the opening bell.
Top prospect Antonio Uy made weight for tomorrow's "Night of Champions" to be held at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque.
The "Crossman "will take on Jay-Ar Diama over 6 rounds in the Light Flyweight 112lb division, and if looks could kill, then we know what to expect tomorrow !
Nguyễn Hoàng Quốc Huy - Ho Chi Minh Team
Huy started boxing back in 2014, and was an immediate success. He was young national champion 2014, national youth medalist 2017, national youth medalist 2018, national club cup medalist 2019, national champion champion 2021, national club cup 2022, and won a bronze medal at the national sports congress 2022.
v
Bùi Văn Nhân - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Nhân started boxing back in 2017, and achieved the bronze medal in the national championships 2023.
tập từ năm 2014, hcv trẻ toàn quốc 2014, hcđ trẻ toàn quốc 2017, hcb trẻ toàn quốc 2018, hcb cúp CLB toàn quốc 2019, hcb vô địch toàn quốc 2021, hcb cúp CLB toàn quốc 2022, HCĐ đại hội TDTT toàn quốc 2022
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Lê Tiến Đạt - Matrix Boxing Gym
Dat won a bronze medal in national youth championship in 2016, a gold medal in national youth championship in 2017, and a gold medal in national youth championship in 2018.
He has had 3 pro fights - VSP Genesis (Loss to SEA Games medallist Le Cong Nghi), followed by two impressive wins at VSP Pro.
v
Nguyễn Tân Trọng - Ho Chi Minh team
Trong commenced boxing in 2017. He was a finalist in the teams championship 2022, the all-city youth tournament 2022, the national youth tournament 2022, and the teams championship 2023.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Great card of international boxing action live from the Flash Ballroom Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque.
Joe Noynay continues his welterweight crusade in the main event, pitted against durable Indonesian visitor Larry Siwu.
Plenty of good locals too, but Bryan Tamayo's clash with Fernando Tagpuno jr will be special.
And hey, keep an eye out for "the Crossman" Antonio Uy - he is going to be really good.
Papua New Guinea Boxer Junior Kauko Raka’s fight against Vietnamese opponent Van Thao Tran is scheduled for the 15th of July next month at the Grand Ho Tram resort and casino in Vietnam.
Raka said his preparations for the fight is going great at the moment, he is currently training with his coach Ephraim Montaru, trainer Nelson John and national coach for the amateur boxers.
“I am having some spurring with Team PNG boxers who are preparing to attend the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands.”
Raka said he will get really good preparations if he goes to the Philippines to train there whilst waiting for his fight.
“I have made commitments to go to the Philippines but in terms of sponsors I’m still yet to secure one to help me travel there to prepare.”
“If I train and do some spurring in the Philippines I will be at my best fit to take up my international match.”
Raka said he is confident to win this fight and that is his main aim as it is the national championships for Vietnam and to him it means it’s the national championship for PNG.
“I’ve watched some of my opponents fights and I’ve seen some of his weaknesses and studied his movements in terms of attack and defense so if I can prepare in the Philippines, I will be able to defeat him.”
“One of my opponent Van Thao Tran’s weakness I have seen is that he does not move a lot in the ring and he moves forward all the time so I am training on how to move back and counter punch on him when he moves forward to attack me; I will move back with my punches and see gaps to swing or stop him,” added Raka.
Raka said so far there is no confirmation from any sponsors yet who have said to help me however the member for Bougainville and Minister Peter Tsiamalili has made a commitment to assist him; also from the CEO for Sports Foundation Albert Veratau who said to look into it.
There is also a company Jomik group of companies in Bougainville who have put their hands up to assist in his travel.
Raka thanked these sponsors especially the Jomik group of companies who assisted his team when they were in Buka with their airfares back to Port Moresby and their continuous support.
VIETNAM - Get ready to be rocked by RAKA !!
Vietnam's boxing star "The Trigger" Tran Van Thao goes toe to toe with Papua New Guinea's hard man
Junior Kauko Raka - the PNG Prodigy !!
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday July 15th
Đỗ Văn Thiện Ngân - Ho Ch Minh Boxing Club
Silver medal winner at the national youth championships in 2018.
v
Nguyễn Mạnh Đức - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Started boxing in 2014, Duc won the gold medal in national youth competition of 2016.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Lê Thị Ngọc Hạnh - Matrix Boxing Gym HCMC
Hahn achieved a gold medal national youth champs 2017 and a bronze medal national youth champs 2018.
She made her pro debut VSP Pro Feb 2023.
v
Mai Thị Lan - Ho Chi Minh Boxing Club
Lan is a relative newcomer to the sport. She started boxing in 2019, and showed a lot of potential. She has already achieved a bronze medal at the national youth championships in 2022.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
BOUT #2 "VSP PRO" boxing event at VSP Gym
Nguyễn Đạt Việt - Hanoi Boxing Academy
Started boxing in 2020, and has already achieved a bronze medal national youth champ 2022, and a bronze medal at the club championships 2022.
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Lâm Trí Siêu - Matrix Boxing Gym HCMC
Started boxing in 2017. Winner of the silver medal at the HCMC tournament 2022.
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Huỳnh Ngọc Yến Phương - Kick Boxing Vietnam
Silver medal national sports festival 2022, Debut in VSP Pro Jul 2022
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Lương Thị Ngoan - HCMC Boxing Club
started boxing in 2000, bronze medal in the national champ 2023
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
23 year old southpaw Dào Văn Quân heads to Ho Chi Minh City this week, ahead of his main bout clash with Matrix Gym gun Phan Minh Quân next Saturday night.
Dào Văn Quân hails from the Hanoi Boxing Academy, and has been training in the sport since 2013.
The Hanoi boxer has shown dramatic improvements since the pandemic, and was suitably rewarded with a bronze medal at last year's national sports festival.
Dào Văn Quân v Phan Minh Quân is one of the most technically intriguing bouts in a great night of boxing set down for next Saturday night in Saigon.
VSP PRO 5 - LIVE PROFESSIONAL BOXING
Saturday June 17th Starts 6pm
VSP BOXING GYM
147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Tran Van Thao is probably Vietnam's best known "professional" boxer, and despite the best efforts of the pandemic, has managed to stay active and motivated to further hus successful career.
"The Trigger" beat the Philippines Prince Andrew Laurio by knockout last October, and has since stayed fit sparring and competing with amateurs. Despite the less suitable 4 round format,Thao performed outstandingly at the National tournament earlier this year, getting silver in a closely fought contest with Hanoi boxer Tran Van An.
Thao makes his anticipated return to the pro ranks on July 15th, on an a huge international event to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino. It is understood that Vietnam lightweight champion Nguyễn Văn Hải will also be appearing on this same show. Both boxers will be pitched against national champions.
Mark John Yap will be representing the Philippines, and after a recent exhibition bout in Ho Chi Minh City, should be in great shape for July 15th.
Fight card announcements soon.
