PHAN MINH QUÂN

PHAN MINH QUÂN

The Riddler

Super Lightweight, 140 lbs (63.5 kg)

Age :

24


Height :

175

cm


Stance :

Orthodox


Region :

HO CHI MINH CITY


Country :

VIETNAM


Record : PRO DEBUT


Record :

2

Wins

(

1

KO)

/

Loss

/

1

Draws

The Riddler is the most accomplished of three aspiring Vietnam boxers in the exhibition bouts.

Quan was a youth champion in HCMC, and has continued his boxing training with the hope of becoming a professional competitor later on. He has won at Inter Club level, and he definitely possesses the look of a boxer that can make it to the pros. He is also a good size for a super featherweight, and he still retains some nice amateur touches in his arsenal.

Phan Minh Quan has a real reputation of asking the hard questions of his opponents, and some, well they just seem near impossible to answer.

Hence – The Riddler !

PHAN MINH QUÂN

In VSP Promotions

PHAN MINH QUÂN

In the news

TWO YEARS AGO ALREADY !!
November 17, 2024

TWO YEARS AGO ALREADY !!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://youtu.be/wtvhUrz5EVg?si=wFMeYF-L41LBBD7p
PHAN MINH QUÂN IN KOREAN CLASSIC
October 12, 2023

PHAN MINH QUÂN IN KOREAN CLASSIC

It was a really nice foreign debut for Phan Minh Quân in Korea last Sunday.

Quân took on unbeaten Uzbekistan boxer Sirochbek Ismoilov  - a former amateur champion and national team member.

Vietnam had plenty of good touches, and despite a narrow loss, served it up to the Uzbek champ.

Great quality fight, and Phan Minh Quân will COME BACK STRONGER !

VSP PRO YOUNG GUNS READY TO RUMBLE
October 7, 2023

VSP PRO YOUNG GUNS READY TO RUMBLE

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

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

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

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

VSP PRO STARS HEAD TO KOREA !
October 5, 2023

VSP PRO STARS HEAD TO KOREA !

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

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

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

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

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

October 8, Saturday 11AM Vietnam Time.  

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

NGUYỄN KHẮC DŨNG GRABS HIS OPPORTUNITY
August 23, 2023

NGUYỄN KHẮC DŨNG GRABS HIS OPPORTUNITY

It was only July 29th that Hanoi boxer Nguyễn Khắc Dũng fought at VSP PRO, and plans were for the strongly built Lightweight to return to the ring in maybe 2 to 3 months.

But a late withdrawal of the opponent of Binh Duong team's Truong Hai Bien this Saturday created an immediate chance to fight that Dũng simply could not refuse.

And as they say, fortune favours the brave !

Dũng debuted at just one week's notice against one of Saigon's most promising boxers - former  youth champ Phan Minh Quân. He returned last month in vastly improved shape, but met an equally improved rival in Tran Tan Quang Dao.

The Hanoi boxer showed great sturdiness under pressure, because Dao arguably put on the best boxing performance of the night.

Courtesy of his improvement, the match up between Nguyễn Khắc Dũng and southpaw Truong Hai Bien shapes as one of the most interesting this Saturday night.

Bien is on debut, but has an extensive kickboxing and muay thai background, and the reports from Binh Duong are that he will be well suited to the professional boxing arena.

This fight has been elevated to the main undercard, and be in no doubt that these two hard headed warriors will do it justice !

Fight 7 Winner
July 29, 2023

Fight 7 Winner

Phan Minh Quân thắng điểm không đồng thuận trước Đàm Ngọc Đức trong trận đấu tâm điểm sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro 6!!!

Hiệp 1: Hai võ sỹ đều cho thấy kỹ thuật tuyệt vời với nền tảng tập luyện boxing bài bản và gặt hái nhiều thành tích ở cấp độ quốc gia.

Phan Minh Quân chủ động ép đài, tung ra body-shot và tìm đòn móc. Trong khi đó Đàm Ngọc Đức dù bị ép đài vẫn di chuyển thông minh và những cú trả đòn thông minh, hiệu quả.

Hiệp 2: Minh Quân vẫn giữ thế thủ high-guard và tiến vào dồn ép đàn em Ngọc Đức. Tuy vậy những đòn tay sau và khả năng di chuyển thoát góc vẫn giúp Ngọc Đức giữ được khoảng cách an toàn.

Trận đấu rất căng thẳng khi cả hai tay đấm đều thể hiện tốt ý đồ chiến thuật. Phải đến cuối hiệp đấu Minh Quân trong tình huống ép đài mới tìm thấy liên tiếp combo đấm móc chất lượng trúng vùng mặt Ngọc Đức.

Hiệp 3: Minh Quân vẫn chủ động áp sát trong khi Ngọc Đức di chuyển linh hoạt, tìm cách phản công và thoát góc. Phải đến khoảng 30 giây cuối cùng hiệp đấu mới "nóng" khi cả hai võ sỹ đứng giữa đài liên tục đổi đòn cực kỳ hấp dẫn.

Hiệp 4: Kịch bản "nóng bỏng" ở cuối hiệp 3 được cả hai tay đấm tiếp tục thể hiện ở 3 phút hiệp đấu thứ 4. Không còn nhiều tình huống di chuyển, thay vào đó cả hai hầu như chỉ đứng ở giữa đài và liên tục đổi đòn.

Dù tốc độ né đòn khá tốt nhưng Ngọc Đức vẫn dính nhiều đòn hơn. Những cú đấm móc và jab của Minh Quân cho thấy sự chuẩn xác và hiệu quả tốt hơn góp phần giúp anh ghi điểm ở hiệp đấu quyết định.

Kết quả: 39-37, 39-37, 38-38. Phan Minh Quân thắng điểm không đồng thuận.

#webthethao #boxing #VSPBoxing #phanminhquan

VSP PRO 6 READY
July 28, 2023

VSP PRO 6 READY

Không chỉ là nắm đấm, các võ sĩ trẻ tại VSP Pro 6 tỏ ra vô cùng thích thú với "bài học khiêu khích" trên sàn Boxing chuyên nghiệp.

Boxing chuyên nghiệp là gì? Là nơi các võ sĩ kiếm tiền từ chính các trận đấu của mình? Chưa đủ, đó phải là những "show diễn" nơi mỗi cá nhân thể hiện không chỉ năng lực, mà còn là cá tính và sự thích thú khiến khán giả phải kéo đến sân theo dõi họ thi đấu. Đó là điều các võ sĩ góp mặt tại sự kiện Boxing chuyên nghiệp VSP Pro 6 được trải nghiệm với cảm giác thích thú và cả ngượng ngùng trước đám đông.

"Khán giả thích những màn kịch", "Họ thích những màn trình diễn chứ không chỉ là các cuộc đấu tay đôi", ông Lim Song, người sáng lập chuỗi sự kiện VSP Pro phân tích với các võ sĩ ở buổi cân kí VSP Pro 6 chiều ngày 28/7 tại TP. Hồ Chí Minh.

#webthethao #boxing #quyenanh #VSPpro #VSPpro6 #VSPboxing

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

"VSP PRO" VIETNAM COMING THIS SATURDAY

Watch it here live !

Venue: VSP Gym 147 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

Saturday July 29th    Start : 6pm

Here are the results of VSP PRO 5
June 17, 2023

Here are the results of VSP PRO 5

Here are the results of VSP PRO 5

HOTTEST TICKET IN SAIGON TONIGHT
June 16, 2023

HOTTEST TICKET IN SAIGON TONIGHT

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 !!!

THE RIDDLER SETS BRAIN TEASER JUNE 17TH
June 3, 2023

THE RIDDLER SETS BRAIN TEASER JUNE 17TH

THE RIDDLER SETS BRAIN TEASER JUNE 17TH

Future star Phan Minh Quân will be fighting at

VSP PRO 5 in Ho Chi Minh City at VSP Gym on

Saturday June 17th.

The Saigon local is known as The Riddler, because of his ability to set traps and ask tricky questions of opponents.

Quân is a former Youth Champion and famously fought Philippines hard man Mark John Yap in an exhibition match in Ho Tram late last year.

Phan Minh Quân made his professional debut win last month in impressive fashion.

Watch The Riddler take on the Journey Man Mark John Yap at the Fortunes of War last December :

PHAN MINH QUÂN A STAR ON THE RISE
May 18, 2023

PHAN MINH QUÂN A STAR ON THE RISE

VSP PRO returns to brighten Saigon Saturdays  !!

Live sports entertainment event

Saturday May 27th   Starts 6pm

VSP Boxing Gym

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

HANOI'S NEW KID ON THE BLOCK - March 25th
March 7, 2023

HANOI'S NEW KID ON THE BLOCK - March 25th

HANOI'S NEW KID ON THE BLOCK!

Outstanding youth prospect Bùi Việt Hoàng made a big splash at his pro debut in February 2023. The Hanoi Boxing Academy protégée was exhilarating, fighting a Draw with and equally talented Phan Minh Quân from HCMC.

Hoàng returns to VSP PRO later this month, and gets an opportunity to open his professional account. Watch this northern boy - he is just turned 18 and may just end up one of Vietnam's best fighters !

Don't say we didn't tell you !!!

"VSP PRO" PROFESSIONAL BOXING EVENT
February 25, 2023

"VSP PRO" PROFESSIONAL BOXING EVENT

Saturday February 25th  Starts 6pm

ARRIVE EARLY!

VSP Boxing Gym

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

PREY BECOMES THE PREDATOR!
January 12, 2023

PREY BECOMES THE PREDATOR!

When we enlisted @anhnquan to fight against @markjohn_yap on an exhibition match during #FortunesOfWar event at #grandhotram, we wondered if this Vietnamese debutant can even survive the first 2 rounds against a veteran boxer such as Mark John Yap who has had 48 professional fights with 31 wins and 50% KO rate! Yap also held OPBF champion title 3 times! The result was completely unexpected as Quan turned the table around and often stalked the former champion around the ring. This kid has got talents! See the fight on our YouTube channel and tell us what you think!
.
https://youtu.be/AAKLQnYchVM
.
#vsppromotions #fortunesofwar #Boxingvietnam #boxing #inspiration #nevergiveup #prey #proboxing #grandhotram

29m

FULL FIGHT  - Phan Minh Quân vs Mark John Yap
December 15, 2022

FULL FIGHT - Phan Minh Quân vs Mark John Yap

Former HCMC youth champ jumps to the big stage and takes on the might of 3x OPBF winner Mark John Yap.

Super entertaining bout that was unfortunately stopped early due to a head cut to the Philippines star.

MARK JOHN YAP GETS A TORRID WELCOME
December 13, 2022

MARK JOHN YAP GETS A TORRID WELCOME

Philippines Mark John Yap received a solid workout at Fortunes of War, a great bout unfortunately cut short in round 3 due to accidental head clash.

Yap and Vietnam opponent Phan Minh Quân both enjoyed good moments early on, with the pinoy star getting a cut above the right eye very late in round one.

The Philippines boxer got the best of the second round, and the fighters followed that with toe to toe action, only to be halted by the ring doctor shortly after.

This was a great display by former HCMC youth boxer Quân, who clearly relished the challenge of fighting an established star like Mark John Yap.

You can watch the full fight here :

https://youtu.be/xg0t8BYjUWI

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS
December 11, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS

FORTUNES OF WAR FIGHT REPLAYS

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

OFFICIAL WEIGHT: PHAN MINH QUAN VS MARK JOHN YAP
December 9, 2022

OFFICIAL WEIGHT: PHAN MINH QUAN VS MARK JOHN YAP

Phan Minh Quân   58.9kg     (Vietnam)

Mark John Yap      59.2kg    (Philippines)

FIHT 4: Mark John Yap v Phan Minh Quân
December 3, 2022

FIHT 4: Mark John Yap v Phan Minh Quân

FORTUNES OF WAR - MEET OUR FIGHTERS

Mark John Yap v Phan Minh Quân  -   Fight 4

PHAN MINH QUAN  Debut

23 yrs old / Orthodox / The Riddler / 170cm / 59kg Super Featherweight

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam / Matrix Boxing HCMC

The Riddler is the most accomplished of three aspiring Vietnam boxers in the exhibition bouts.

That said, he faces the most daunting opponent – 3 times OPBF champion Mark John Yap,

Quan was a youth champion in HCMC, and has continued his boxing training with the hope of becoming a professional competitor later on. He has won at Inter Club level, and he definitely possesses the look of a boxer that can make it to the pros. He is also a good size for a super featherweight, and he still retains some nice amateur touches in his arsenal.

Phan Minh Quan has a real reputation of asking the hard questions of his opponents, and some, well they just seem near impossible to answer.

Hence – The Riddler !

MARK JOHN YAP  31 wins

33 yrs old / Orthodox / The Journey Man / 168cm / 59kg Super Featherweight

Cagayan de Oro, Philippines / VSP Elorde Manila

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.

Of course, he has to get past Phan Minh Quan first!

THOSE THAT DARE TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE
November 21, 2022

THOSE THAT DARE TO DO THE IMPOSSIBLE

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

The answer: AMAZING  !

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

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

(Thee princes from left)

Le Hoang Hiep fights Jetro Pabustan.

Phan Minh Quân fights Mark John Yap.

Thai Hoang Huy fights JonJon Estrada.

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

Good luck to our Vietnam  warriors!

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino Vietnam

Saturday December 10

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS
November 19, 2022

THE GRAND HO TRAM CHASING GREATNESS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations

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

A perfect way to end 2022 !

FORTUNES OF WAR

The Grand Ho Tram Resort Vietnam

Saturday December 10

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM
November 17, 2022

FORTUNES OF WAR COMING TO VIETNAM

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

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

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

THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM

Saturday December 10

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

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!

Saturday December 10   Fortunes of War !

Latest news

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10
October 28, 2022

PINOYS HEAD TO VIETNAM DECEMBER 10

Congratulations to the Philippines fighters that will be competing at the Grand Ho Tram in Vietnam on Saturday December 10. Arnel Baconaje and Charly will contest IBF titles in two of the main event matches.

Baconaje will take on incumbent lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan, a Vietnam fighter that has recent history with pinoys Delmar Pellio and Jules Victoriano. Charly Suarez is expected to have a confirmed opponent soon.

PALULU VOWS TO "DAMAGE" SUAREZ
October 28, 2022

PALULU VOWS TO "DAMAGE" SUAREZ

Indonesia’s best fighter has given his take on the recent deeds of Charly Suarez, and also his prospects of matching up with the King's Warrior in the near future: "I am aware that I am on a shortlist of fighters for the IBF title in December with Suarez, but if he is serious about being world champ, then pick me - as I am his ticket !

From what I hear, nobody wants any part of Suarez  - the Aussie, the Japan, and even I'm hearing American!And from what I see, I am the ONLY guy to call this amateur out, to expose him in the pro ranks.

But I will make a prediction, that based on what I have seen recently of Charly Suarez, not only will I damage his hopes of a world title, I will do some serious damage to his body also. The guy has zero power, so I don't see how he will compete with a top ten fighter "

Defry Palulu is a former WBC belt holder with a record of 25 and 2. He has encountered only one loss in the last 9 years, a controversial split decision defeat that he later avenged. Charly Suarez will contest the IBF Asia title at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam on Saturday December 10th.

THE FEROCIOUS RING WALK
October 26, 2022

THE FEROCIOUS RING WALK

Big thrill to see "the Ferocious" Carlo Magali back in the ring at Sunday’s BATTLEFIELD. Carlo is one of the most rugged fighters in Philippines boxing, and he turned out in career best shape for his stoush with Charly Suarez in the main event.

Magali started very strongly and in fact edged Suarez in round 3, but it became obvious that the King's Warrior was not going to risk trading with the battle hardened warrior.The match up turned out to be stylistically wrong for Magali, but he certainly showed the physical menace that would really hurt a less lateral opponent than Suarez. We really look forward to The Ferocious appearing again soon, and watching him bust up whatever is in front of him!

SUAREZ STAYS UNDEFEATED
October 25, 2022

SUAREZ STAYS UNDEFEATED

*story courtesy Daily Tribune

Utilizing his all-around skills, Rio Olympics veteran Charly Suarez kept his unbeaten record intact with a lopsided 12-round unanimous decision win over rugged Carlo Magali over the weekend in Sucat, Parañaque. Suarez was defending the World Boxing Association super-featherweight title and likewise vying for the Philippine crown and easily got the job done by earning scores of 119-109 (twice) and 118-110 on the judges’ scorecards.

The crowd at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Center rallied behind Magali but Suarez had no trouble keeping his foe at bay with shots fired from long range. The victory raised Suarez’s record to 13-0 with seven knockouts and the Magali conquest put him on line for a quick return to the ring on 10 December in Vietnam.

“We are fast-tracking his climb to the world ratings,” Suarez’s chief trainer and longtime national team pal Delfin Boholst. Charly’s ripe (for a title shot) because of his age and his wealth of experience (fighting in the amateur ranks),” Boholst added. Though already 34, Suarez has fought extensively and once faced Vasyl Lomachenko, now regarded as one of the world’s finest fighters.

THIS COULD BE INTERESTING!
October 25, 2022

THIS COULD BE INTERESTING!

Hot on the heels of Charly Suarez's clinical WBA and National title win yesterday, the champion's focus now moves to his next assignment. The King's Warrior has been approached to fight in Vietnam in December, and the Philippines' most "ducked" fighter is looking to take his first international scalp on foreign soil.

It seems at this stage, the US, Australia and Japan have stamped Suarez papers as "too dangerous", and given his amateur and pro record, this is hardly surprising! So the search is on for top quality guns that are ready to be lit up by Suarez.

One name that interestingly resurfaced recently was that of a fighter who apparently still holds an opinion on the Philippines star. Charly Suarez was recently made subject of a “call out” by Indonesia’s #1 fighter Defry Palulu, a hard hitter with a 25 and 2 record.

Palulu is classed as one of his country’s best since the mighty Chris John, and the heavy handed southpaw was meant to defend his WBC regional belt against Suarez back in 2020, a match that was cancelled due to the pandemic. At the time Palulu was confident of dismantling the fledgling pro Suarez, and to this day, he still remains optimistic about the task:

Charly Suarez has done very well in his career so far, but I feel I am now a stronger fighter than i was back in 2020, and I just know he hasn’t yet fought someone of my ability. I am hearing that he is the best in Asia at 130, some say even in the world, but I know that I have the power to hurt him and slow his fast hands. "I have been in with many "amateur style" boxers before, and it always ends the same way for them!” warned the man aptly tagged “the Unseen Hammer” !!

Defry Palulu is unbeaten in three fights since returning from the pandemic, and has experienced only one loss in the last 9 years - a split decision loss that he later avenged. VSP Promotions will look into this guy -  if the quotes are real, and he's ready to walk the walk, this could be interesting!

WARRING PARTIES CALL A TRUCE
October 24, 2022

WARRING PARTIES CALL A TRUCE

Champion Philippines boxer Mark John Yap and Team Raka trainer Ephraim Montoru meet after the historic bout between PNG and Philippines.

What was the topic they discussed? " Mark, which one in your opinion is better?

The San Miguel or riding the Red Horse? "was Ephraim's opener !

THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABOUR
October 24, 2022

THE FRUITS OF YOUR LABOUR

Papua New Guinea's very popular Junior Kauko Raka enjoys a meal with other competing boxers after yesterday's huge BATTLEFIELD card in Parañaque Manila.

Raka put on a stoic display in a cracking undercard fight with Philippines champion Mark John Yap.

Junior Raka pressured Yap throughout, winning the admiration of the crowd.

This was the first match for the PNG PRODIGY in almost two years, so expect to see a vastly improved fighter in future bouts.

And our advice is that anyone that is thinking of facing Raka ,?  

WATCH OUT !  You are in for one hell of a fight!

PNG PRODIGY IS ON THE MARCH !

D'HAMMER MUSCLE GETS THE JOB DONE
October 24, 2022

D'HAMMER MUSCLE GETS THE JOB DONE

Despite a slow start, RoyRoy Sumugat wore down a very good looking Ivor Lastrilla.

Lastrilla appeared to outbox Sumugat in the opening sequence, and he looked to be in career best form. He definitely created problems for RoyRoy, and there are wins in store for this smart boxer without doubt. But it was Sumugat to the fore in latter rounds, with his accuracy and nice combination punching earning him the stoppage.

BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD
October 23, 2022

BEYOND THE BATTLEFIELD

After the gunshots have fallen silent, and the smoke has cleared !

Huge performances tonight from Mark John Yap and Junior Kauko Raka.

Yap showed all his boxing skills and put an exclamation mark on why he has been a multiple title holder. This "Journeyman" has a lot left in the tank, and he looks invigorated at 130lb.

Raka was a junkyard dog, constantly pressing the champion Yap onto the back foot. Junior Raka showed understandable signs of ring rust, but it was a wholehearted display that won the plaudits of Philippines fans, and was sure to make PNG proud.

Make no mistake, Raka will derive huge benefit from tonight's performance and he will be a menace to top fighters in the division.

Top quality bout. Bravo !

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

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

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

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

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

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

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI

How to watch:

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

What time?

US East Coast        6am

US West Coast       3am

UK                          11am

Vietnam                  5pm

Philippines              6pm

Australia and PNG  9pm

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA
October 18, 2022

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA

Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.

Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim  Montoru.

Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.

Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !
October 17, 2022

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !

Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.

Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.

This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire  NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!

But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd

BE THERE, OR WATCH IT  LIVE !

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING
October 16, 2022

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING

The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.

On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.

Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:

"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.

When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.

I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.

There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.

Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.

One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.

I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."

Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

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

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

Be there or watch it here live !

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY
October 14, 2022

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY

Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.

Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD
October 11, 2022

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD

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

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

Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente

8 rounds Lightweight 132lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION
October 10, 2022

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION

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

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

Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco

8 rounds Flyweight  112lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO
October 9, 2022

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO

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

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

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY
October 10, 2022

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY

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

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

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

Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka offers to go toe to toe with Cagayan de Oro's outstanding boxer Mark John Yap.

Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap

8 rounds   Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !
October 9, 2022

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !

Expect things to get crazy !

Ali Cañega v Jerwin Mejes

8 rounds Super Lightweight  140lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS
October 9, 2022

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS

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

Claudevan Sese v Albert Alcoy

6 rounds  Super Bantamweight 122lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

"YOUR MOVE, MR. RAKA !"

Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

MAGALI  "ALL BUSINESS !"
October 7, 2022

MAGALI "ALL BUSINESS !"

COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

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

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

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

"Knockout ? Well let's see!

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

Spoken in true Warrior spirit!

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

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

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

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds Lightweight 135lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd