Professional boxing events are rare in Timor-Leste, so when the opportunity arose to fight in Vietnam, Manuel Exposto de Araujo grabbed it with both fists - so to speak !

This Sunday in Thảo Điền, de Araujo will make history as the first boxer from Timor-Leste to compete in Vietnam, appearing in the main bout at Trigger Promotion 6.

Undefeated with knockout power in both hands (2-0, 2 KO), the young fighter has vowed to arrive in Ho Chi Minh City all guns blazing.

Timor-Leste (East Timor) is a Southeast Asian nation occupying the eastern half of the island of Timor and is widely known as Asia’s newest country, having gained full independence in 2002. Now, the nation is also working to establish its presence in professional boxing.

De Araujo has received strong support from his homeland, proudly representing his country as a flag-bearing ambassador of the sport. His campaign has been backed by TELEMOR (telecommunications) and BORALA, LDA (construction and civil services), as he aims to become the first Timor-Leste boxer to win on Vietnamese soil

The rising star has also been supported by local law enforcement and was pictured this week alongside Henrique da Costa, Commissioner-General of Police of Timor-Leste.

Joining the delegation is trainer Thomas Americo Jr, whose father previously challenged for a world title. Americo Jr will also travel to Ho Chi Minh City this week in preparation for the bout.

Vietnam looks forward to welcoming the Timor-Leste team and applauds the commitment of the sponsors whose support has helped place their athletes on the international stage.