Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam.
Hai was a highly decorated amateur in younger days, having won multiple national titles and achieving medals at the SEA Games. In spite of those successes, the revered Hanoi legend has had precious few chances to box in recent years.
Hai was intent on embarking on a pro career back in 2019, and signed with VSP to pursue that ambition. The pandemic put the brakes on those plans, and unfortunately, Hai did not see any ring time until August of this year.
Nguyễn Văn Hải ventured to Manila to take on the rangy southpaw prospect Jerald Into, and despite incurring a points loss, it was a decent display for a boxer with lots of ring rust. The Vietnam fighter certainly showed many of the trademark moves of his amateur days, but his distance, timing and punch volume were below the required level.
This legend dubbed “ the Hanoi Hitman” will look to reverse that loss, and he will be determined to teach his whiz kid Indonesian rival some veteran tricks of the trade !
VSP PRO #9: Nguyễn Văn Hải đã có 6 hiệp đấu giao hữu vô cùng quan trọng với hai tay đấm thuộc đội tuyển Boxing Quốc gia, Vũ Thành Đạt và Đàm Ngọc Đức, trải nghiệm này sẽ giúp Văn Hải chuẩn bị cho trận tranh đai vào tháng 12 tới, dự kiến sẽ kéo dài trong 8 tới 10 hiệp đấu.
#webthethao #vsp #boxing #vsppro #vsppro9
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải has looked unstoppable in 2023, and he isn't finished just yet !
His most recent performance at the Grand Ho Tram was simply devastating, scoring a first punch knockout of the unbeaten 6-0 Abdul Mottalib.
His run of good form has attracted the attention of South Korean promoters, who want to test the Vietnam boxer against their own this coming October.
Nguyễn Văn Hải previously visited South Korea in 2018, when he impressively won an exhibition event in Seoul.
"The Korean boxers are always in great condition and are very brave. They have a big heart. It is an honour to fight them".
More news coming soon.
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải is now in Ho Tram and looks in great shape for today's weigh in.
Hai is pictured with Papua New Guinea fighter Junior Kauko Raka, who will also fight at the big international event tomorrow night in Vung Tau.
*story courtesy VN Express
It took former national boxing champion Nguyen Van Hai just 12 seconds to take down the on-form Abdul Motalib of Bangladesh at the international boxing event WBO Global Prelude.
Before the lightweight (61 kg) fight on Saturday night, Mottalib was in great form with five consecutive wins, including two victories by knockout. Hai, who has won the national championship for 14 consecutive times, also had five wins in six professional fights.
At the official weigh-in before the fight in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province that borders HCMC, Mottalib tried to provoke Hai by standing in front of him and blocking his view during the press conference. But Hai kept his composure.
There was not much to say about the fight as 12 seconds in, Hai threw a powerful and staggering right hook that immediately floored Motalib. The referee stopped the fight and gave a knockout win to Hai. This is his third knockout win after seven professional fights.
The rain was hitting the roof hard at The Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam last night.
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải drops an ATOMIC BOMB !!!
Unbeaten Bangladesh boxer Abdul Mottalib (5-0) casts a confident stare down to Vietnam champion Nguyễn Văn Hải (5-1) at yesterday's weigh in at Vũng Tàu Vietnam.
These are the co-main event boxers in a big international card to be held at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino tonight.
The iconic show in Vietnam is sold out, and will have added historical significance.
The heads of regulatory commissions from Japan, the Philippines, China and South Korea will be in attendance, after signing co-operation agreements with the Vietnam Boxing Organization to further this great sport in the region.
#cockybuffalopromotions #vspboxing #boxingvietnam #cockybuffalo #TheGrandHoTramStrip #VSPPromotions
Saturday July 15th - Book now !!
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.
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 "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.
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 "Hanoi Hitman" Nguyễn Văn Hải has been short listed for a big international card that is expected to light up The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino next month.
Hải improved his record to 5-1 with a boisterous win over the high ranked Chinese Xiao Tao Su, and in doing so, became Vietnam's #1 Lightweight performer.
The event at Ho Tram will include boxers from various countries, and is confirmed to include the Philippines Mark John Yap and Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka.The promoter Cocky Buffalo is also in talks with Vietnam's best performed professional "Trigger" Tran Van Thao about competing on this card.
The Grand Ho Tram international boxing event has been set down for July 15th.
Updates soon.
Đăng ký tham gia VSPPRO ngay hôm nay để biến giấc mơ boxing chuyên nghiêp của bạn thành sự thật. No pain no gain, không có gì là không thể, chỉ cần thực sự cố gắng và kiên trì, bạn sẽ có cơ hội được tranh tài với những boxer hàng đầu VietNam, cũng như dành được cơ hội thi đấu chuyên nghiệp cùng với những boxer hàng khủng của đấu trường boxing chuyên nghiệp quốc tế. Hãy cùng #VSPboxing tạo nên di sãn cho bản thân cũng như nâng tầm boxing chuyên nghiệp VietNam sánh vai cùng các cường quốc boxing trên thế giới.
Come join with us and prove yourself to the WORLD !
https://www.facebook.com/vspgym/videos/1400498503823807
BÀ RỊA - VŨNG TÀU
Võ sĩ Nguyễn Văn Hải bất ngờ thắng cao thủ Trung Quốc Su Xiao Tao bằng điểm trọng tài tại sự kiện quyền Anh quốc tế WBO Chapter 3.
Màn so găng giữa Văn Hải với Su ở hạng Light Weight được quan tâm nhất trong loạt sáu trận của sự kiện quyền Anh quốc tế tại The Grand Ho Tram Strip tối 22/4.
Văn Hải từng sáu lần vô địch quốc gia, nhưng vẫn bị đánh giá thấp hơn Su - tay đấm nổi tiếng của Trung Quốc từng giữ hai đai vô địch IBO Châu Á Thái Bình Dương và đai WBO Châu Á hạng cân Super Featherweight. Võ sĩ Trung Quốc cũng dày dạn kinh nghiệm hơn khi thắng 11 trong 13 trận chuyên nghiệp, trong đó có 6 trận thắng bằng knock-out. Văn Hải mới có bốn chiến thắng, trong đó có một bằng knock-out, qua 5 trận chuyên nghiệp.
Hai võ sĩ đều nhập cuộc thận trọng và chỉ tung ra các pha tấn công thăm dò. Văn Hải chủ động hơn trong di chuyển cũng như tung ra những đòn đấm thẳng. Phải đến cuối hiệp một, hai võ sĩ mới có một số pha ra đòn đáng chú ý.
Sang hiệp hai, Văn Hải tung ra những đòn móc sở trường rất nặng. Đáp trả lại, Su thể hiện đẳng cấp bằng một combo đòn nhuần nhuyễn và hiệu quả vào người đối thủ. Võ sĩ người Trung Quốc chủ động di chuyển áp sát, nhưng sớm phải nhận liên tiếp những pha trả đòn rất nặng vào đầu từ Văn Hải.
Với kinh nghiệm từng giúp bản thân giành hai đai vô địch châu Á, Su liên tục dồn ép Văn Hải vào dây đài. Sang hiệp ba, võ sĩ Trung Quốc ra một đòn đấm nặng trúng đầu, khiến Văn Hải choáng váng. Thế trận sau đó trở nên khá cân bằng và nặng tính chiến thuật.
Bước vào hiệp bốn, Su liên tiếp ra đòn tốc độ, nhưng Văn Hải di chuyển tốt, tránh được hầu hết các đòn thế từ đối phương. Dù vậy, võ sĩ của Trung Quốc vẫn tỏ ra nhỉnh hơn trong hiệp đấu này nhờ lối đánh khôn ngoan và kinh nghiệm.
Ở các hiệp đấu tiếp theo, Su vẫn giữ thế chủ động để gây sức ép. Nhưng dưới sự cổ vũ cuồng nhiệt của khán giả nhà, Văn Hải lên tinh thần, phản đồn mạnh mẽ với một loạt cú đấm chất lượng trong hiệp bảy. Võ sĩ Việt Nam giữ đà này để chơi tốt ở hiệp cuối, và được xử thắng bằng điểm trọng tài hai trong ba trọng tài chấm Văn Hải.
Bên cạnh chiến thắng của Văn Hải, võ sĩ 26 tuổi Phạm Hữu Thương cũng có màn trình diễn ấn tượng trước đối thủ Trung Quốc Zeng Yujie ở hạng Super Flyweight. Trước trận đấu này, Hữu Thương bị đánh giá thấp hơn khi Zeng có gần 30 trận chuyên nghiệp, trong đó có 11 chiến thắng và ba trong số đó là thắng knock-out.
Võ sĩ Việt Nam nhập cuộc tự tin, tận dụng ưu thế về sải tay và chiều cao để tung ra những đòn đấm thẳng rất tốt. Ngược lại, Zengh phòng thủ rất chặt chẽ và có được một số đòn móc trái phản công khá lợi hại. Hai võ sĩ liên tục phô diễn kỹ thuật bằng những đòn tấn công đa dạng suốt trận so tài. Chung cuộc, trọng tài chấm điểm hòa cho cả hai võ sĩ.
Ở trận đấu khác, Song Chan Ho (Hàn Quốc) thắng knock-out Min Saeng Bak (Thái Lan) sau năm hiệp ở hạng Super Lightweight. Võ sĩ 17 tuổi mang hai dòng máu Việt Nam và Hàn Quốc Lee Ju Yeong (mẹ là người Việt) thua knock-out trước Bayarkhuu Ganbaatar (Mông Cổ) trong hiệp đầu.
Kim Gun (Hàn Quốc) thắng điểm Tenorio Romeo (Philippines) sau sáu hiệp. Một đại diện khác đến từ lò Cocky Buffalo, Mikhail Lesnikov (Nga) thắng điểm trước đối thủ người Trung Quốc Zhang Xian Hai.
76-76 77-75 77-75
Nguyễn Văn Hải beats Xiao Tao Su of China who was previously WBO Asia Champion!
Video: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions/videos/791534922351276/
Nguyễn Văn Hải and Team Manny coach Thinh in the room just moments before the big fight with Chinese champ Xiao Tao Su.
Credit also to coach Alejandro Belonguel from VSP Boxing Gym, who was a great cornerman, but somehow missed the photo opportunity !
Congrats
to VSP boy Nguyễn Văn Hải for a polished performance in Ho Tram against the Chinese power puncher Xiao Tao Su on Saturday.
The win propelled the Hanoi Hitman to Vietnam #1, and jumped him over almost 500 other boxers in world rankings.
The Vietnam fighter has always been one of the best known in the amateur scene, and is now finally getting to make up for lost time in the professional ranks.
Take a trip down memory lane !
Hanoi Vietnam October 2019, and last night's big winner Nguyễn Văn Hải fights an exhibition bout with world title mandatory Charly Suarez.
Cracking bout showcasing two of Asia's best !!!
Van Hai, stepped into the ring this Saturday at the grand Ho Tram, to show the world again why he is called the Hanoi Hitman.
Representing Vietnam against China's Xiao Tao Su in the international line up, Van Hai won by majority decision: 76-76 77-75 77-75
The WBO youth Youth Title match was a night full of excitement.
Watch the full event stream here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EQcQu9xAMo
VSP champ Nguyễn Văn Hải had no troubles making today's "catchweight" for tomorrow's big event in Vung Tau.
Nguyễn Văn Hải 60.2kg was just slightly in advance of opponent Xiao Tao Su 60.1kg for at the weigh-in for their 10 round clash tomorrow.
Former national champion Hải (4-1) will have his hands full with his more credentialed Chinese rival (11-2) and a two times regional belt winner.
VSP strong man Nguyễn Văn Hải "the Hanoi Hitman" takes on China's rising star Xiao Tao "the Sadist" Su next Saturday at Ho Tram Vietnam.
Despite the greater experience of his Chinese rival (11-2), Nguyễn Văn Hải was upbeat :
"Every opportunity to fight is a blessing for me. I like to show my skills, and now that I am learning the differences of professional boxing, I also like to show my power.
I have had many fights in different sports, also in amateur boxing. I know to respect all opponents, because they have trained hard to win also. But I also know how to be ruthless, and the China fighter will find out next Saturday what it feels like to face a Vietnam fighter. I wish him good luck! "
Nguyễn Văn Hải is revered as perhaps the most experienced multi discipline fighter in Vietnam - but he also lays claims to being pound for pound the strongest !
A man with a passion for physical fitness, Nguyễn Văn Hải went for close to three years without a boxing match, all the time training young pupils in Hanoi in various fight techniques. But a return to the ring last year in Manila against Jerald Into rekindled his love for the sport, and he has since scored two impressive pro wins.
VSP Boxing star Hải will be fighting the main undercard bout in Ho Tram Vietnam next weekend, and will be joined by young Philippines prospect Romeo "Yong" Tenorio, who gets his first taste of competition on foreign soil.
Nguyễn Văn Hải (4-1) takes on resuming top Chinese prospect Xiao Tao Su (11-2) over 8 rounds in what should be a thriller.
Asked his feelings on the bout, Hải was very enthusiastic:
" I am very excited to be able to do what I love once more. Each match for me is a gift.
I respect all opponents, but I plan to give him a welcome to Vietnam that the fans will love !
I know I will hurt him and plan to finish him "
Nguyễn Văn Hải v Xiao Tao Su (China)
8 rounds Lightweight 61kg
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam
Saturday April 22nd
The Philippines Romeo Tenorio Jr takes on the South Korean master blaster Gun Kim.
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải meets outstanding Chinese boxer Xiao Tao Su in what will definitely be no place for the faint hearted !
Lots of great international fight action in Vung Tau Vietnam this month !!
The fight card has been released!
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday April 22nd
The Hanoi Hitman Nguyễn Văn Hải is back April 22nd at Vung Tau !!
Philippines Romeo Tenorio will also appear on this card at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
This is a clip from last year in Manila, where Hai took on hot unbeaten Lightweight prospect Jerald Into.
It was the Vietnam boxer's first time to see a boxing ring in more than 2 years, but it turned out to be a quality bout.
Hai has won both follow up engagements since this match, and is now 4-1 in the pro ranks.
Vietnam's Nguyễn Văn Hải and the Philippines Romeo Tenorio take on international opponents at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino on April 22nd.
Philippines boxer Romeo Tenorio is rumoured to fight in Vietnam this month, with a bout against South Korean Gun Kim in the offing. The match will be in the 115 lb class, and will be Tenorio's first since October last year, when he beat Julias Bala by unanimous decision. Gun Kim is a fighter of promise, with a 2 win 1 loss career record.
Vietnam's most experienced fighter Nguyễn Văn Hải is set to take on China's Yongcai Liu in the Lightweight 61kg category.
The VSP Boxing star from Hanoi has won 4 bouts since turning professional, and is hoping a win against his Chinese opponent will fast track him in the rankings.
Yongcai Liu is a winner of 6 fights, but has not been active since the pandemic, so it will be interesting to see what level he is at. The Chinese boxer showed a lot of ability earlier in his career, where Top Rank sponsored him to go to America and learn with their boxers and training staff.
The match will be over 8 rounds and will be the main undercard at The Grand Ho Tram on Saturday April 22nd.
Here is Nguyễn Văn Hải's last fight at Ho Tram in December 2022, where he knocked out unbeaten Indonesian Paisal Panjaitan.
63,5kg: Nguyễn Văn Hải thắng bằng tính điểm đồng thuận trước Hà Minh TuấnTrận so găng thú vị giữa những tay đấm ở hai thế hệ. Nguyễn Văn Hải là tay đấm cựu trào từng vô địch quốc gia nhiều năm và giành huy chương quốc tế. Còn Hà Minh Tuấn đến từ Hanoi Boxing Academy từng giành HCB giải các CLB, HCV giải trẻ và thắng 1 trận ở sự kiện VSP Pro.Trận đấu này rất được chờ đợi nhưng thực tế trên ring Văn Hải đã nhanh chóng tỏ rõ bản lĩnh kinh nghiệm dày dạn và sức nặng cú đấm vượt trội đàn em. Một đòn đấm vòng tay phải uy lực của Văn Hải và serie đòn ngay sau đó tưởng như đã kết liễu trận đấu ngay trong hiệp 1.Cũng phải dành cho Minh Tuấn lời khen khi tay đấm trẻ từ Hà Nội đã trụ vững thêm 2 hiệp đấu dù bị đàn anh dồn ép và liên tục hứng đòn từ những cú móc, jab và body-shot như búa bổ của Văn Hải. Bước sang hiệp cuối cùng, Minh Tuấn có thêm 2 tình huống jab và đấm vòng ấn tượng, nhưng sự chênh lệch vẫn nghiêng hẳn về Văn Hải.Chiến thắng bằng tính điểm đồng thuận cho tay đấm 35 tuổi Văn Hải. Theo tiết lộ ở cuộc phỏng vấn sau trận, Văn Hải sẽ nỗ lực tập luyện để chuẩn bị cho 1 trận tranh đai vô địch vào cuối năm nay.
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