Ronnie Baldonado

Ronnie Baldonado

Jong Jong

Super Bantamweight, 122 lbs (55 kg)

Age :

26


Height :

163

cm


Stance :

Orthodox


Region :

Carmen, Cotabato (del Norte)


Country :

Philippines


Record : PRO DEBUT


Record :

15

Wins

(

9

KO)

/

2

Loss

/

1

Draws

Ronnie “Jong Jong” Baldonado will take on Carl Jammes Martin for the WBA Asia title in Manila on Saturday March 12. The Mindanao fighter boasts a superb record of 15 wins and 2 losses, and returns to the ring for the first time since late 2019. The solidly built Baldonado has a wealth of experience against varied styles of opponents, including international fights in China and Japan. Winning on the road in China is never easy, but Jong Jong made sure his efforts were not in vain, by knocking out his two opponents in Beijing!

Ronnie Baldonado jumps in weight class to take the Wonder Boy challenge, but the strong orthodox fighter looks a nice foil to Martin’s southpaw magic. He lacks nothing in the power department either, having put 9 of his previous victim’s to the sword. Baldonado will come to Manila all guns blazing, and he certainly won’t be fazed by the reputation of Carl Jammes Martin, nor his unbeaten record!

Expect fireworks here, as Baldonado will have the self belief that he will be the first to put this Wonder Boy on his butt!

Ronnie Baldonado

In VSP Promotions

Ronnie Baldonado

In the news

WE'VE GOT A FIGHT IN YOKOHAMA JAPAN
July 24, 2023

WE'VE GOT A FIGHT IN YOKOHAMA JAPAN

Philippines Ronnie Baldonado just made weight for his Inoue Fulton undercard bout in Japan.

Ronnie Baldonado 53.3kg    16-4

Yoshiki Takei 53.9kg               6-0

Best of luck to both fighters.

BALDONADO IN JAPAN ON INOUE UNDERCARD
July 23, 2023

BALDONADO IN JAPAN ON INOUE UNDERCARD

Ronnie Baldonado and trainer Jetro Pabustan have touched down in Tokyo in advance of Tuesday night's mega clash between Naoya Inoue and Stephen Fulton.

Baldonado, who many remember for giving Wonder Boy Carl Jammes Martin a torrid battle, takes on unbeaten Yoshiki Takei (6-0)

Takei is a bona fide killer - all 6 wins have come by knockout, but Baldonado is a mad dog with plenty of firepower of his own.

The match will take place at Ariake Arena in "the Monster" Inoue's hometown of Yokohama.

SAY WELCOME TO THE NEW KIDS IN TOWN
June 28, 2023

SAY WELCOME TO THE NEW KIDS IN TOWN

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.

JONG JONG FACES HIS WORST NIGHTMARE
January 26, 2023

JONG JONG FACES HIS WORST NIGHTMARE

This has all the makings of a spectacular main event.

Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado has been training like a demon in Manila, and is promising a torrid welcome for visiting Mindanao boxer - Sanman's Ben Mananquil.

Mananquil, who is reverently known as "The Nightmare" has looked great in two outings since the pandemic, with a 4th round stoppage win over Crison Omayao, before losing to unbeaten South African star Phumelele Cafu, who was rated #11 in the world. The Nightmare did some good work early in that match, but it's fair to say that he was stylistically unsuited to his fellow southpaw opponent, and he is likely to have the ideal dance partner in Baldonado.

But this kid Baldonado is excitement plus, a skilled boxer that really knows how to turn up the heat on opponents.

Jong Jong has got great hands, lots of firepower, and you just know he has a real talent for putting butts on the canvas.

Just think back to his clash with hot prospect Carl Jammes Martin, who had lots of issues with this firebrand, and met the floor in the early stages of their battle.

Ronnie Baldonado is back to his proper weight class for this main event clash, and if his blazing fists get their way, the Nightmare maybe heading the way of his heralded rival Ben Mananquil.

UKC REVOLUTION

Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila

Monday January 30th

GREAT FIGHT.

THE BEST NEW YEAR'S PRESENT  - EVER !!!
January 10, 2023

THE BEST NEW YEAR'S PRESENT - EVER !!!

Gotta love this match up !

This is the main event at UKC REVOLUTION.

Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado is bringing those magical hands to Manila for a fire fight with Sanman's Ben Mananquil.

Mananquil aka The Nightmare has looked great in two outings since the pandemic, with a 4th round stoppage win over Crison Omayao, before losing to unbeaten South African star Phumelele Cafu, who was rated #11 in the world. The Nightmare did some good work early in that match, but it's fair to say that he was stylistically unsuited to his fellow southpaw opponent, and he is likely to have the ideal dance partner in Baldonado.

And this kid Baldonado, well he just brings it !

He's got great hands, lots of firepower, and you just know he has the love of putting opponents on the canvas.

UKC REVOLUTION

Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila

Monday January 30th

GREAT FIGHT.

FULL HOUSE FOR UKC REVOLUTION JAN 30TH
January 6, 2023

FULL HOUSE FOR UKC REVOLUTION JAN 30TH

Fighters are jumping from the rooftops to join the biggest and best fight show to launch the new year - UKC REVOLUTION in Parañaque on Monday January 30th.

The Elorde team already have a super strong line up that are planning on being there.

Check out these killers, from right to left:

Giovanni Escaner, Ronnie Baldonado, Ali Canega, Donald Laurejas,

Clarence, Breboneria, Jetro Pabustan, Baby Boy Almacen, Jason Buenaobra, Malfred Majadas, Roberto Gonzales

THAT'S A MILLION DOLLARS WORTH OF TALENT RIGHT THERE !

Best of luck boys ! Happy New Year  !

Full fight card coming soon.

TROUBLE COMES IN THREES !
January 4, 2023

TROUBLE COMES IN THREES !

The REVOLUTION has certainly gained momentum, with many of the Philippines' best looking to compete at the season opener.

Clarence Breboneria, Jetro Pabustan and Ronnie Baldonado are three of the confirmed starters, and based on today's picture, look well on track for fan pleasing performances later this month.

UKC REVOLUTION

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday January 30th

BALDONADO IS BACK TO THE FUTURE
January 3, 2023

BALDONADO IS BACK TO THE FUTURE

The REVOLUTION is officially in full swing, with news that ace bantamweight Ronnie Baldonado will be joining the card on January 30th.

The Mindanao boxer known as JongJong is one of the most exciting strikers in the Philippines, yet has been in relatve obscurity since 2019 due to inactivity.

It's almost ironic that he finally returned in 2022 to two losses, but the merit in the performances provides insight that 2023 will showcase the best version of Baldonado yet seen !

Ronnie Baldonado returned after a 3 year break, jumped weight classes, and took on one of the Philippines most promising fighters Carl Jammes Martin. It's fair to say that JongJong dominated the early stages of that match, even putting Wonder Boy on his butt, before tiring late in the contest. It was a fantastic comeback performance by Baldonado, and was followed up by a points loss in Japan to hot prospect Sho Ishida, a winner of 31  bouts.

2023 provides a fresh start for Baldonado,  who at only 26, and having experienced a 3 years break from the sport, is an improving young fighter that is extremely compelling to watch.

So expect to see Ronnie Baldonado turn up on January 30th with all guns blazing !

More updates on the REVOLUTION fight card coming soon.

BUKIDNON DOES IT BETTER !
April 4, 2022

BUKIDNON DOES IT BETTER !

Lorenz Ladrada is one of the many talented Mindanao fighters to compete in Manila in recent events.

The participation of visitor fighters to Luzon, amidst the difficulties the Elorde team encountered to even create events during lockdown, definitely deserves special mention.

At TIGER 2O22, Tomjune Mangubat, Charly Suarez, and Ronnie Baldonado formed three parts of the two headline fights - all Mindanao boys.

Lorenz "Cerberus" Ladrada is a proud son of the mountains, hailing from Malitbog Bukidnon, so it is fantastic to see his family and friends get behind his journey, and even receive a salutation from the mayor.

Well done to Lorenz Ladrada and all the fighters that have managed to keep the faith and stay competitive in these hard times.

HARD FOUGHT, WELL EARNED !!
March 16, 2022

HARD FOUGHT, WELL EARNED !!

One of the best fights you will see all year!

Ronnie Baldonado puts on a truly TIGER performance, giving the Wonder Boy his biggest career challenge so far.

The prize?

A WBA Asia belt and a world ranking. This fight was hellfire (as predicted !) and Martin showed huge composure, determination, and fitness to redress the first half of the fight.

The performance of Baldonado was phenomenal, and he will be a big star for Philippines boxing.

Can't wait to see what's next for Carl Jammes Martin !  Very impressive !

HOW TO MAKE A GRAND ENTRANCE !
March 14, 2022

HOW TO MAKE A GRAND ENTRANCE !

The "Wonder Boy" Carl Jammes Martin about to commence his ring walk for his WBA Asia assignment with Ronnie Baldonado.

The young boxing prodigy and recent Probellum signing, advanced to 19 and 0 (16 KO) with his gritty title win.

The fight between Baldonado and Martin was a classic, with Martin overcoming an early setback, only to work back into the contest and regain ascendency later in the bout.

Big kudos to Ronnie Baldonado, he was outstanding, and he made this another memorable bout for Wonder Boy and the fans.

AMAZING AND DRAMATIC !
March 12, 2022

AMAZING AND DRAMATIC !

Carl Jammes Martin pulls a Knockout in round 11 from a dominant Ronnie Baldonado in a classic.

Baldonado knocked down Wonder Boy in the second,  and dominated till the mid stages, where a resurgent Martin edged back. In the end it was Martin's fitness that prevailed, against a totally exhausted Baldonado.

EPIC FIGHT!

WELCOME TO MANILA GIRLS !
March 11, 2022

WELCOME TO MANILA GIRLS !

The Wild Man Jino Rodrigo making international guests Linn Sandstrom and Jada feel welcome. When not a tour guide, the boisterous Rodrigo doubles as a boxer, and expect his clash with Roberto Gonzales to be one of the best of the day.
Can Jino get lucky two days in a row?

The three title fights all weighed in without problem, and all six boxers looked in magnificent shape.
Suarez v Mangubat WBA Asia title
Martin v Baldonado WBA Asia and RP title
Ligas v Biendima RP title

15 great fights Read all about them here:

https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022

BALDONADO AND WONDER BOY FACE OFF
March 11, 2022

BALDONADO AND WONDER BOY FACE OFF

Igorot quicksilver Carl Jammes Martin and Davao's Ronnie Baldonado made weight and are pumped for tomorrow's WBA Asia and Philippines national title match.
Naysayers were saying Baldonado will be too small for Wonder Boy. WRONG !!!
We already advised that Baldonado will bring the heat tomorrow, and he giving the local star Martin plenty to worry about.
DO NOT MISS THIS !

TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!

Read about all tomorrow's fighters:

https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022

"WONDER BOY WINNING STREAK IS OVER"
March 6, 2022

"WONDER BOY WINNING STREAK IS OVER"


Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado and Michael "Hot'n Spicy" Dasmarinas have the rounds in the bank, and are super confident to put on blazing displays in Manila next Saturday.

Baldonado is a powerhouse bantam moving up to challenge the unbeaten Carl Jammes Martin for the WBA Asia strap. Whilst being a big admirer of the precocious Wonder Boy, the punching wizard Baldonado puts it bluntly
"He can't beat me, so his winning streak will be over!"
Michael Dasmarinas had an unfortunate no contest at his most recent, when the durable Ernie Saulong received an accidental head gash. The classy Dasmarinas will ensure no repeat of that, when he meets total "pain in the ass "opponent Danny Tampipi, a southpaw renowned as both durable and awkward. Wanna know more?
Read about Baldonado, Dasmarinas, and all your other TIGER 2O22 UKC fighters here:
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022

TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT HERE LIVE

BALDONADO WILL MAKE THIS BOY WONDER!
January 31, 2022

BALDONADO WILL MAKE THIS BOY WONDER!

Just confirmed!!

Ronnie “Jong Jong” Baldonado will take on Carl Jammes Martin for the WBA Asia title in Manila on Saturday March 12. The Mindanao fighter boasts a superb record of 15 wins and 2 losses, and returns to the ring for the first time since late 2019. The solidly built Baldonado has a wealth of experience against varied styles of opponents, including international fights in China and Japan. Winning on the road in China is never easy, but Jong Jong made sure his efforts were not in vain, by knocking out his two opponents in Beijing!

Ronnie Baldonado jumps in weight class to take the Wonder Boy challenge, but the strong orthodox fighter looks a nice foil to Martin’s southpaw magic. He lacks nothing in the power department either, having put 9 of his previous victim’s to the sword. Baldonado will come to Manila all guns blazing, and he certainly won’t be fazed by the reputation of Carl Jammes Martin, nor his unbeaten record!

Expect fireworks here, as Baldonado will have the self belief that he will be the first to put this Wonder Boy on his butt!

Great fight!!

CARL JAMMES MARTIN v RONNIE BALDONADO

WBA Asia Super bantamweight title

TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge

Paranaque, manila

Saturday March 12

WATCH IT HERE LIVE !!!

Latest news

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

MAGALI AND SUAREZ PICTURE PERFECT

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

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

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

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

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

CHARLY SUAREZ READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD’S BEST

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI

How to watch:

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

What time?

US East Coast        6am

US West Coast       3am

UK                          11am

Vietnam                  5pm

Philippines              6pm

Australia and PNG  9pm

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA
October 18, 2022

THE RAKA BOYS HIT MANILA

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

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

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

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

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !
October 17, 2022

RAKA TEAM IS BATTLEFIELD BOUND !

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

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd

BE THERE, OR WATCH IT  LIVE !

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING
October 16, 2022

AKA KEEPS THE PNG FLAG FLYING

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

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

Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

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

KNOCK KNOCK ! HERE COMES D'HAMMER!

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

Be there or watch it here live !

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY
October 14, 2022

JUNIOR RAKA PRESS CONFERENCE TODAY

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

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

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD
October 11, 2022

"DEADLY" DEMPO RETURNS FOR BATTLEFIELD

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

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

Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente

8 rounds Lightweight 132lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila

Sunday October 23rd

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION
October 10, 2022

JAHZEEL STRIVING FOR PERFECTION

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

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

Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco

8 rounds Flyweight  112lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO
October 9, 2022

STARS SPARRING AT COCKY BUFFALO

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

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

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY
October 10, 2022

NGUYỄN VĂN DUONG IN HCMC TODAY

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

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

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

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

Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap

8 rounds   Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !
October 9, 2022

CAÑEGA ON THE RAMPAGE !

Expect things to get crazy !

Ali Cañega v Jerwin Mejes

8 rounds Super Lightweight  140lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS
October 9, 2022

CLAUDEVAN READY TO BREAK HEARTS

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

Claudevan Sese v Albert Alcoy

6 rounds  Super Bantamweight 122lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

"YOUR MOVE, MR. RAKA !"

Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 130lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

MAGALI  "ALL BUSINESS !"
October 7, 2022

MAGALI "ALL BUSINESS !"

COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

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

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

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

"Knockout ? Well let's see!

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

Spoken in true Warrior spirit!

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

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

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

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS

RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla

8 rounds Lightweight 135lb

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THE BEST IS YET TO COME !
October 6, 2022

THE BEST IS YET TO COME !

The Journeyman Mark John Yap is in training in Manila, and has promised to be at his destructive best this month when he contests the main undercard match prior to the giant Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali clash.

Yap is slated to fight Papua New Guinea's premier boxer Junior Kauko Raka, and is philosophical, despite suffering 4 losses on the trot. But the defeats need to be examined more closely and put in perspective !

Three of these losses were at the hands of top class unbeaten foreign opponents, where matching was done at the very last moment to ensure making weight would prove extremely difficult. Nonetheless, Yap produced really good touches in each of these bouts, and actually dropped the unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra whilst incurring a points loss.

Mark John Yap prepared in the altitude of Baguio prior to his August stoush with Charly Suarez, and the hard work showed. It was an impressive performance by the Journeyman, and it is really doubtful that any local other than the freakish Suarez could have repelled him that day.

Yap did his early preparation in Cagayan de Oro for his date with Raka, and is now in Manila being mentored by Elorde's Jetro Pabustan. He has a pragmatic view on his impending battle:

“If I’ll have the opportunity to knock him out, then I’ll knock him out,” said Yap.

“If he’s tough, then I’ll try to do my best and dominate him.”

If he's tough ? Well, one thing we know about the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka is that he's carved from granite, and has skills, so this should be a thriller !

And for the Journeyman, you just know that this international star will produce something special this month and even more, the best is yet to come !

Mark John Yap v Junior Raka (PNG)

8 rounds  Super Featherweight 59kg

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

REBOOT - A NEW BEGINNING !
October 5, 2022

REBOOT - A NEW BEGINNING !

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

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

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

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

Boxers that starred at THE BEGINNING :

The Wolverine JonJon Estrada

King's Warrior Charly Suarez

Cerberus Lorenz Ladrada

Remon "Bad Bad" Basas  

Ali "Carnage" Cañega

Apocalypse Glenn Bismanos

The Sniper Ben Ligas

The Bull Alphoe Dagayloan

The Prince Andrew Laurio

Ranny "the Cleaner" Quizo

"DONE TRAINING"
October 5, 2022

"DONE TRAINING"

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

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

SUAREZ: "WE ARE CARRYING BOMBS!"

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

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

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

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

Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali

RP National title  WBA Asia title

12 rounds  Super Featherweight 59kg

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

BABY DID A BAD BAD THING
October 3, 2022

BABY DID A BAD BAD THING

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

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

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

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

Remon Basas v Jestine Ace Tesoro

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

WELCOME TO PHILIPPINES MR. RAKA !
October 2, 2022

WELCOME TO PHILIPPINES MR. RAKA !

Mark John Yap takes on the might of Papuan hard man Junior Raka later this month in Paranaque Manila .

Yap is one of the Philippines' best internationally credentialed boxers in recent years, having amassed 30 wins and three OPBF titles on the road in Japan.

But he is experienced enough to know that you can never underestimate an opponent,  and in Junior Raka, you have a nemesis with skills and a warrior heart to match.

"Raka already has a history with Pinoy boxers. He has had two big wins, and then a narrow loss to Roldan Aldea for the WBA belt, and we have a big opinion of Aldea here in the Philippines.

We know that Junior Raka will bring energy and aggression, and a love for the battle. We respect that, because we love it too! So bring it on, and we welcome you to the Philippines Mr. Raka ! "

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

WHO IS THE PHILIPPINES NUMBER ONE??

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

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

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

Who will get bragging rights ?

Come to the BATTLEFIELD and claim your piece of history !

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

WOLVERINE READY TO GO BERSERK !
September 24, 2022

WOLVERINE READY TO GO BERSERK !

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

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

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

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

READY TO PULL THE TRIGGER
September 25, 2022

READY TO PULL THE TRIGGER

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THIS CAN BE SOMETHING SPECIAL !
September 26, 2022

THIS CAN BE SOMETHING SPECIAL !

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

Sublime speed meets southpaw stealth and wizardry!

GOOD MORNING MARK JOHN YAP !
September 26, 2022

GOOD MORNING MARK JOHN YAP !

Papuan pugilist Junior Raka is putting in the hard work and looking forward to an October 23 rendezvous with hot pinoy Mark John Yap.

The Cagayan de Oro boxer arrived in Manila  last night, and will complete his training with elite sparring in coming weeks.

The match will be PNG Prodigy Raka's first since the pandemic, but he has the mindset to over ride all obstacles and bring a strong performance to the BATTLEFIELD event.

Raka welcomed his opponent:  "Good morning to Mark John Yap. I look forward to joining you in Manila. I know we will give all the boxing fans in the Philippines and PNG a great match. Boxing is my life so I thank you and the people of Philippines for the opportunity !"

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THE PNG PRODIGY COMING TO MANILA
September 27, 2022

THE PNG PRODIGY COMING TO MANILA

Junior Raka v Mark John Yap

Main Undercard

8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

EVEN STARS GOTTA EAT !
September 28, 2022

EVEN STARS GOTTA EAT !

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

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

YES   these boys are DIVERSE !

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

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

ARE YOU READY FOR THE YAP ATTACK ?

Love watching this guy at work.

Three times OPBF champ, and a technician with 30 wins to his name, Mark John Yap is without doubt the most experienced boxer amongst an outstanding card at the BATTLEFIELD next month.

It is a rare treat to see Yap perform on home soil, as he has fought abroad in places like Japan, USA and Dubai in recent years. He made a quick trip home in 2019, and was rewarded with an impressive Knockout win in front of adoring CDO fans. He was not sighted in the Philippines again till August of this year, when he faced the mercurial Charly Suarez in a WBA title bout. Despite a points loss, it was a near vintage Yap that impressed onlookers and Suarez himself :

" Mark fought a very clever fight. He reads the punches very well, and he shows his experience with lots of variety. He is very tough and experienced. "

Yap never has easy opponents, and in his inimitable style, takes on Papuan Warrior Junior Raka in his upcoming bout.

Raka was a feisty amateur before turning pro, and despite limited opportunities, has shown great signs. He scored two great wins over quality Pinoy Allan Vallespin, and endured a points loss over the top class Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match.

It is also well known that the "PNG PRODIGY " has 7 additional fights not listed in BoxRec, and is unbeaten with 6 knockouts. BOOM!  This pride of Papua New Guinea has got guns in both hands!

This will be a colossal contest, and like any fight of Mark John Yap,  we would not expect anything less!

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

THREE AMIGOS OR MEN IN BLACK ?
September 30, 2022

THREE AMIGOS OR MEN IN BLACK ?

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

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

GOING, GOING, GOOONNNNNE!
September 23, 2022

GOING, GOING, GOOONNNNNE!

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

YAP ON TRACK TO DERAIL JUNIOR RAKA
September 23, 2022

YAP ON TRACK TO DERAIL JUNIOR RAKA

Cagayan de Oro boxer Mark John Yap returns to Manila on Monday to ramp up preparations for his impending clash with Papua New Guinea hard man Junior "the Prodigy" Raka.

Yap had been on the international circuit for many years prior to the pandemic, and local fans have really been deprived of seeing his  superb skills on home soil. His appearance at the BATTLEFIELD show next month is a huge coup, because Yap had only performed twice in the Philippines in recent history.

After a highly successful stint in Japan, which culminated in 3 OPBF titles, Yap returned briefly to his native Mindanao in 2019. While he was there, he took on the really promising fighter Ulysses Lagos, a bout that he won by impressive KO in front of a big crowd in CDO.

Yap was not seen again in the Philippines till August this year, where he engaged in a WBA belt clash with the unbeaten Charly Suarez. This was a really superb performance by Yap, and despite losing on points, endorsed that he is still at the top of his game.

It was anticipated that no matter who Mark John Yap matched up with this October, it would be a "stay busy" assignment, possibly a soft win, but then the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka threw his hat in the ring!

Raka is of short stature and powerful, and typically PNG warrior stock,  a real tough SOB! And the man has skills too!

Junior Raka has accepted this challenge at really short notice, more so, he asked for it! It is super impressive stuff in a sport where many are constantly hiding out.

VSP Promotions can say emphatically that NO ONE WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP, so that gives you some insight to how highly regarded "the Journeyman" is at home.

But reputations count for nothing once you are in the ring and touch gloves, so DO NOT  MISS THIS BOUT!  Fireworks !

MARK JOHN YAP v JUNIOR RAKA

8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd

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

MAGALI TO FIGHT OLYMPIAN BOXER FOR WBA TITLE

*story courtesy Baguio Midland Courier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RODRIGO JOINS THE BATTLEFIELD

RODRIGO JOINS THE BATTLEFIELD

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

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

And Jino is a MADMAN !

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

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

BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22

Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd