Grand Ho Tram Strip
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December 10, 2022


Some of Asia's best fighters come together for an end of year celebration like mo other.
Watch the action live from Vietnam !
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO
Saturday December 10

Maybe the best young prospect in Korean boxing, but definitely the proud owner of a killer ring name, Chan-Ho Song, popularly known as Purge Boy, is Vietnam bound !
Currently training in Gen San, Purge Boy has been mixing with the likes of Manny Pacquiao, Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân and yes, even Pablito Canada !
Chan-Ho Song will head to the Fortunes of War event to defend his WBO Oriental Youth super lightweight title against the hard punching Thai Anuson "BoomBoom" Thonglueang.
Song is unbeaten in 8 bouts, whilst his opponent has been an absolute revelation, destroying 12 fighters in a row after losing his debut. The ring name BoomBoom says it all, and this Thai has knocked out 9 of his victims.
This will be a cracking youth title, and with Thonglueang at 18 years, and Song at 19, the sky is the limit for these two young firebrands.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10

The Fortunes of War will introduce some of Asia's best fighters to Vietnam, and be advised, Indonesia are sending their "A" TEAM !
Paisal Panjaitan, coach and manager Armin Tan,and Defry Palulu formed an intimidating triumvirate pictured after yesterday's training.
And the team are pumped for bold showings at The Grand Ho Tram.
Paisal Panjaitan has been boxing less than 5 years, yet has already chalked up three impressive wins in his short time in boxing. "Geronimo" is in stark contrast to his Vietnam opponent Nguyễn Văn Hải, a legendary fighter who is adept in multiple
fight forms, and has dedicated most of his life to martial arts.
Defry Palulu is likely the best performed Indonesian boxer since the legendary Chris John, and he has amassed 25 wins and a WBA Asia title in his superb career. The southpaw with the ominous ring name of "the Unseen Hammer" will tackle Philippines quicksilver Charly Suarez in the main undercard of the night.
Vietnam staged events such as Fortunes of War offer the fans a great opportunity to see the best fighting the best, but also give everyone a glimpse of the different styles and faces that international boxers bring, and VSP extends a warm welcome to the talented and hard working Indonesian team.
Thank you for your support Indonesia, you add much needed dimension and colour to our event, and we wish you truly great performances.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10

Five Philippines stars are heading to Vietnam for the iconic Fortunes of War event at The Grand Ho Tram, and these boys aren't skipping ABS DAY !
Victory8 world team member Claudevan Sese and boxer Joseph Omana joined Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap at today's workout, and these two are planning on putting on something special in Vietnam next month.
Pabustan will tackle the former Russian gang member Le Hoang Hiep, whilst the Journey Man Mark John Yap has an all action match up with Phan Minh Quân, an excellent local prospect that had won the Ho Chi Minh City youth title before the pandemic.
Pabustan and Yap will be accompanied by JonJon Estrada, Arnel Baconaje and Charly Suarez making this team the strongest Philippines representation to ever descend upon foreign shores.
FORTUNES OF WAR
The Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino
Saturday December 10

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IN VIETNAM THIS YEAR !
This is the main event !
Vietnam champion Dinh Hong Quân goes toe to toe with the very lethal puncher from the Philippines - Arnel Baconaje.

Charly Suarez has been nothing short of outstanding since turning pro. But if there has been any doubts regarding his ascent to a world title, it's been that he perhaps lacks the killer instinct or power required at the highest level.
But rumors abound that the King’s Warrior never had any intention of hurting his countrymen, and that he was just happy to get valuable rounds in before heading abroad. And the word is, no such luxury will be afforded to any foreign opponents that stand in his way of a world title.
Believe it, or don't !
But if this line of thinking is correct, then one thing is sure, Indonesia’s best best boxer Defry Palulu is in deep trouble !
Here is Charly Suarez facing Domenico Valentino, not long after the Italian won the world amateur Lightweight title. You be the judge.

Philippines have a strong representation in Vietnam on December 10, and Jetro Pabustan will take on the feisty Le Hoang Hiep in what is destined to be a crazy action packed fight at the beachside resort of The Grand HoTram. The Vietnam boxer has a reputation as being unhinged, and in spite of jumping two weight classes, is confident that he can handle the much bigger pinoy boxer.
But for the well traveled Pabustan, he's seen and heard it all before !
Jetro Pabustan is one of the most experienced fighters appearing at the Fortunes of War in Ho Tram. The clever southpaw is known as the Silent Operator, and when you watch him at work, it’s no surprise that this technician has racked up 31 wins in his career so far. With a professional resume dating back to 2008, Pabustan suffered only one defeat in his first 29 bouts, an amazing feat considering he was fighting everyone!
The Silent Operator hails from Malapatan , Sarangani, but has fought for most of his career based in Cagayan de Oro. A talented southpaw from the start, his style has always been steeped in good fundamentals – touch jabs, deft counters, and point scoring against opponents that get a bit ragged. This template saw him get to a WBO world bantamweight title in 2016, one that he unfortunately lost to the legendary Thai Panya Uthok by technical decision. Ironically, this title was later avenged by another quality pinoy named Marlon Tapales. The very next year, Jetro Pabustan ventured to Japan to claim the WBO Asia Pacific title, accounting for the highly rated Tatsuya Takahashi. When it appeared that his career was in another upswing, the talented CDO fighter seemingly vanished from the landscape, fighting only three times in the next 3 years.
The Silent Operator resumed in May to beat the outstanding and dangerous Bryan Tamayo in Manila. He followed that effort with a last moment trip to the United States to take on the world top 20 fighter Tramaine Williams. Whilst being on the receiving end of a narrow loss, many that watched this fight were convinced that Pabustan had done enough to get his hand raised.
Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
4 rounds Bantamweight 55kg
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT AND CASINO
Saturday December 10

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

Hanoi boxer Nguyễn Văn Hải competed in his first match in almost 3 years this past August. In what was viewed as a welcome back contest in Manila for Hai, he came away with a points loss, and a bagful of "what if" scenarios on his performance. The end result was a steely resolve to make amends for that defeat as soon as possible.
Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam, and he returns to his love for boxing on December 10 at the Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
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 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. But he actually looked very good, and it will no doubt be a vastly improved, and perhaps vengeful, boxer that returns to the ring at The Grand Ho Tram on December 10.
This boxer dubbed "the Hanoi Hitman" will look to reverse that loss in Manila, and he will be determined to teach his whiz kid Indonesian rival some veteran tricks of the trade !

The biggest belt matches are coming to The Grand Ho Tram this December !
Dinh Hong Quân defends his IBF Lightweight crown against the Philippines lethal Arnel Baconaje in what will go down as a fight for tge ages. This one is as close to a 50/50 as you will ever get !
Indonesia’s best Defry Palulu heads to Ho Tram to take on very likely the best technical boxer that the Philippines has ever produced - the quicksilver Charly Suarez. But in spite of his unbeaten record, there are doubters that suggest he doesn't have the power to make the same impact that Manny Pacquiao has made on the sport. Defry Palulu is a former WBC champ, and Suarez the WBA King, so both camps are justified in their confidence in securing the IBF 130lb belt.
And what about this one for a torrid clash ?
19 year old Chan-Ho Song from South Korea takes on 18 year old Anuson Thonglueang for the WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight title in an 8 round bout where both boxers aim to destroy the other. The Thai has had 10 bouts this year, and has literally decapitated his opposition.
And Chan-Ho Song, who is unbeaten in 8 fights, is certainly living up to his ring name of "Purge Boy" !
Three classic championship bouts, and four other hell fire contests, so who wants some ?
WHO'S COMING TO THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM ON SATURDAY DECEMBER 10 ?
If you can't get there, don't panic, you can watch all the action here live !

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 - FULL FIGHT CARD

Vietnam's defending IBF Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quân is already in great shape for his impending clash with Arnel Baconaje, and has plans to make it an early night.
"I had to lose a lot of weight way too fast for my last fight with Jules Victoriano, and I must admit he was a very tough opponent. I feel in way better shape this time, my camp has been good, and being able to train with a legend like Manny Pacquiao has helped me a lot.
A lot of people say it was a very close fight with Philippines last time, and it was, but most did not know that I had no sparring before that match. Everybody will see a far better Dinh Hong Quân this time, and I already know that I will hurt Arnel Baconaje.
It's a very good match, I am excited for it. I am very happy to have the challenge of stopping a top fighter like Baconaje in front of my home country. "
Dinh Hong Quân v Arnel Baconaje
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

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

South Korea meets Thailand in what is sure to be a firefight in the super lightweight 140lb category.
Chan Ho Song is a star on the rise, and could very easily develop into the best pro that South Korea has produced in recent years. At only 19 years of age, he has already chalked up 8 straight wins, and tellingly, has improved out of sight every time that he has entered the ring. This boy is very different to the traditional dour, gritty Korean style that you are maybe familiar with.
Song is fast, has a high workrate, nice footwork, and really works some clever angles. He is definitely durable, and he is developing some power to go with his accurate hands. This is a certainly a boxer to watch for the future - he will be top level !
Anuson Thonglueang has already created some media attention in Thailand, where he has put together 12 wins with only one loss in extra quick time. Similar to his South Korean counterpart, he is a dynamic all action fighter, and he really knows how to be effective inside the ropes.
Whilst his opponents have been lesser calibre than Song, he has dispatched them convincingly, and with real menace ! Anuson Thonglueang as obliterated 9 of his 12 victims by knockout, so Chan Ho Song will need to be careful of engaging in a trading battle with this dangerous Thai.
Chan Ho Song and Anuson Thonglueang will lock horns for the WBO Oriental Youth title.
Chan Ho Song v Anuson Thonglueang
8 rounds WBO Oriental Youth Super Lightweight
THE GRAND HO TRAM RESORT VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

Nguyễn Văn Hải is very likely the most experienced mixed fight form exponent in Vietnam, and he returns to his love for boxing on December 10 at the Fortunes of War show in Ho Tram.
Hai was a highly decorated amateur in younger days, but has had precious few chances to box in recent years. He 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 Hai did not see ring time until August of this year.
Nguyễn Văn Hải ventured to Manila to take on rangy southpaw prospect Jerald Into, and despite a points loss, it was a decent display for a boxer with lots of ring rust.
The boxer dubbed the Hanoi Hitman will look to build on that loss, and will be joined at The Grand Ho Tram by four other Vietnam fighters.
Dinh Hong Quân will contest the main event, while novice prospects Pham Minh Quân, Le Hoang Hiep and Thai Hoang Huy will take on top class Philippines boxers in the undercard bouts.
Indonesia’s Paisal Panjaitan creates an exquisite and intriguing match up with Vietnam's Nguyễn Văn Hải. At face value, their fight stats are remarkably similar, and both like to box out of the orthodox stance. But that's where the similarity ends.
Nguyễn Văn Hải has been immersed in "fighting" for more than 20 years, and has been a high level amateur. In contrast, Paisal Panjaitan has been boxing for less than 5 years, and is clearly still learning the trade. That said, it's transparent that he has improved markedly with each performance, and his energy levels will obviously prove a challenge to his Vietnam opponent. Panjaitan is tough too!
Unbeaten in 3 fights, he absorbed punishment yet won each contest convincingly.
This Vietnam v Indonesia match up will be over 4 rounds, so expect to see fireworks in this one, as both these talented fighters will be looking to impose their will.
Really looking forward to this one !
Nguyễn Văn Hải v Paisal Panjaitan
4 rounds Lightweight 135lb
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

THE GRAND HO TRAM JUST GOT HOTTER !!!
Saturday December 10 Fortunes of War !

WBC champion Defry Palulu was meant to fight a novice professional named Charly Suarez back in March 2020.
The fight was canceled due to the pandemic !
Indonesia’s best fighter and his team were supremely confident of victory, and rightfully so.
Palulu was on a hot winning streak with a 21-2 record, which compared very favourably with the King's Warrior's 3-0 relative inexperience !
Fast forward to The Grand Ho Tram Vietnam on Saturday December 10, and now the clash of two of Asia's very best 130lb fighters, who were always destined to meet - has been set !
Defry Palulu has now recaptured his pre-pandemic form with four successive wins since resuming.
Charly Suarez has stayed busy at home, picking up wins against quality locals, and grabbing WBA and Philippines national titles in the process.
Palulu feels that Suarez doesnt have the power to make an impact at top level. It's an opinion that has even been echoed by many in the Philippines. The Indonesian is also of the belief that previous opponents have allowed the pinoy star to impose his "amateur" style way too easily. He contends that many have simply followed Suarez around the ring, thus falling victim to his mesmerizing hand and foot speed.
The Indonesian southpaw champion says all of that nonsense will finish on December 10 in Vietnam !
It seems hard to imagine anybody in world boxing outpointing Philippines' Charly Suarez, but can he be stopped ?
"That is our plan ! Team Palulu have worked very hard for this, and we will not let this opportunity slip.
Suarez does not have the power to hurt me, or even hold me off. But I know when I catch him, he will go down.
Indonesia will have a new IBF champion on December 10."
Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight 130lb
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

Dinh Hong Quan is gaining the reputation as one of Vietnam's most improved and fearless fighters.
On December 10, the man revered as the Black Hawk, will defend his IBF title on home soil against one of Asia's best at 126-130lb - Philippines' very own Arnel Baconaje.
This will the third defense for the Vietnam champion, and admirably, he has taken on quality opposition each time. The Black Hawk originally won the IBF belt on foreign soil against the very experienced Korean Dong Hee Kim, dispatching his opponent with a showreel left hook !
Since then he has defended against emerging pinoy boxers Delmar Pellio and Jules Victoriano, both of whom enjoyed physical batlles with the Vietnam boxer.
Arnel Baconaje represents another rise in class for Quân, and there is no doubt that at 130, the Philippines man known as "The Silencer" would start an overwhelming betting favourite. But this battle will be at 135lb, and will be held in Dinh Hong Quân's backyard.
It's Vietnam v Philippines its Black Hawk v The Silencer and its the IBF Asia title on the line !
Dinh Hong Quân v Arnel Baconaje
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

Indonesia’s top fighter Defry Palulu is Vietnam bound, and intent on reclaiming his lofty place in the world rankings.
The accomplished southpaw was the WBC Asia champion back in 2019, and was looking to leverage that belt towards some bigger bouts.
He was actually slated to fight novice professional Charly Suarez back in March 2020, a match that he was confident of winning, and one where he undoubtedly would have started a betting favourite.
But the pandemic made a mess of best laid plans, and Palulu was stripped of his WBC belt due to his inability to defend that title. Boxing in Indonesia had completely shut down, and the champion was without a bout for almost 2 years !
Now the Unseen Hammer is back !
Defry Palulu has won 4 on the trot since resuming, taking his impressive tally to 25-2, and has run himself into a rich vein of form.
His most recent win against India #1 Asad Khan was equal parts flawed and impressive, yet it was enough to highlight that Palulu had recaptured his pre-pandemic form.
The Unseen Hammer has a deceptively effective style that has seen him incur only one solitary loss in 8 years - a disputed split decision at that !
He is a southpaw that changes direction and cuts the ring with ease, yet throws punches from unorthodox positions. He varies his power cleverly, and has great insticts when it comes to throwing the "money" shot. Palulu has the sort of thudding power with an often surprising delivery that has deservedly earned him that ring monicker of the "Unseen Hammer".
The Philippines' Charly Suarez has looked outstanding soaring unbeaten in 13 fights, but it is fair to say that Defry Palulu represents a significant test for his debut international bout. Suarez has certainly brought all his wonderful amateur attributes to the pro arena, yet there are many skeptics, and Palulu is one of those.
Despite his skills, many doubt that Charly Suarez has the power to worry the world top 10, and Palulu intends to exploit that deficit. He also believes that Suarez has been "followed" around the ring by previous frustrated opponents, and that he has the tools to cut the ring and corner the Philippines man.
Palulu is confident that the world title charge of Charly Suarez will end on December 10.
That claim remains to be seen, but what is certain, is that this December match in Vietnam will be an intriguing clash of styles and it's a rare treat to get to see two fighters of this calibre in the ring together !
Defry Palulu (Indonesia) v Charly Suarez (Phil)
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

4 rounds Lightweight 61kg
Vietnam legend Nguyễn Văn Hải will take on hot unbeaten Indonesian boxer Paisal Panjaitan (3-0) at the beachside venue of The Grand Ho Tram next month.
Hai resumed from a very long break for a points loss to the promising Jerald Into, but is sure to be in devastating shape for this Vietnam bout.
Paisal Panjaitan has scored one knockout and two easy points victories in his three wins, and will be looking to make a statement in his first international bout.
HUGE FIGHT !
Action live from The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vietnam
Saturday December 10

It pays to dress for success, and big thanks go out to Raoul Navarrete and the team at Be Athletic for this inspirational fight gear for the huge Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu bout coming up next month in Vietnam.
Now we know that Palulu is touted as one of Indonesia's best fighters since Chris John, and we know he was a WBC champion, and we know he has a 25-2 record, and we know his only loss in 8 years was by controversial split decision, and we know he has even said that Suarez has no power and wont crack the world top ten ........
BUT !!!
Will he look as stylish as Team Suarez?
Ahhhhh that's impossible to imagine!
Watch out Palulu, the Suarez army is coming !
BE ATHLETIC - for all the best boxing and fun sportswear.
Charly Suarez v Defry Palulu
12 rounds IBF Asia Super Featherweight title
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

December is the month where all the best known boxers in Vietnam will head to Hanoi to compete in the national sports championships.
So how do you find Vietnam prospects that are willing to fight, when all the best known boxers have headed north for the festival?
VSP Promotions recently advertised that three of the Philippines top professional fighters will come to VSP Gym next month, and are also offering to participate in 4 round bouts at Ho Tram on December 10 against any Vietnam boxer brave enough to put their hand up!
So the call from VSP went out :
"We are looking for Vietnam Tigers who are willing to jump in with these professional killers from the Philippines - JonJon Estrada, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan."
We had so many that wanted to test themselves, and despite their lack of experience, there were three brave Vietnam boys who's enthusiasm and appetite for adventure shone through.
Le Hoang Hiep was one of the most fearless, and he begged for the match with Jetro Pabustan. Despite being a 51kg Flyweight and devoid of recent fights, the 22 year old Gorilla was desperate for action, and said "I'll start training from today if you give me a shot at the Silent Operator!"
And so the match was made, "Young Blood" Le Hoang Hiep will have his date with destiny when he meets Jetro Pabustan at The Grand Ho Tram Vietnam on December 10.
Congratulations
young man, but a word of warning, be careful of what you wish for.
As they say SILENCE IS GOLDEN!

Arnel "the Silencer" Baconaje is Vietnam bound, and he has only one objective on his mind.
To defeat the man known as the "Black Hawk", Vietnam's Lightweight champion Dinh Hong Quan, and return to his native Philippines wearing his IBF belt.
Cocky Buffalo prospect Quan has successfully defended the IBF belt twice already, and whilst they have been hard fought bouts against quality pinoys, it is also fair to say that the young Vietnam boxer is still making technical improvements with each challenge.
He is also getting bigger and stronger.
But the Silencer has no interest in any of that !
As its equally fair to say that he is far more experienced boxer than the two previous opponents of Dinh Hong Quan, and is more definitely more skilful at landing meaningful punches. The Philippines boxer from Iloilo has landed 11 knockouts in his 15 wins.
This is a classic main event, where based on experience, the Philippines Arnel Banconaje is the man to beat and would start a solid favorite.
But you can't rule out the Black Hawk, as he just keeps improving and rising to each new challenge.
If you're a Vietnam fan and haven't seen Baconaje before, check out some of his bag work from late last week. Crisp and precise.
He will be looking to clip the wings of the Black Hawk on December 10.
Arnel Baconaje v Dinh Hong Quan
MAIN EVENT
12 rounds IBF Asia Lightweight Championship
The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vung Tau Vietnam
Saturday December 10

Mark John Yap takes his ethereal boxing skills to Vietnam on December 10 when he takes on former youth champion Pham Minh Quân.
Quân is one of many quality young fighters that train with Matrix Gym in Ho Chi Minh City, and has taken on an exciting challenge to test his game against one of the Philippines best.
The Journeyman has been in sublime form of late, performing superbly in a WBA Asia match with Charly Suarez, and followed that up with a strong win over tough Papua New Guinea boxer Junior Kauko Raka.
Pham Minh Quân v Mark John Yap
4 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg Exhibition
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10

He's part Russki, part Gorilla, and Ho Chi Minh City's street thug Le Hoang Hiep is headed for The Grand Ho Tram this December.
Hiep will compete in an exhibition match with top Philippines' bantamweight Jetro Pabustan, and "Young Blood" is looking forward to the opportunity.
When asked about the task of taking on an internationally performed boxer with 31 wins and a 4kg weight advantage, the Thug Life inspired character was unrestrained in his typically psycho style:
"Tell that boy I'm sending him home to his momma in a zipped bodybag!"
Wow - confidence is definitely KING !
Jetro Pabustan v Le Hoang Hiep
4 rounds Bantamweight exhibition bout
The Grand Ho Tram Strip Vung Tau Vietnam
Saturday December 10

@ The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam !!!
Saturday December 10
Watch all the action live with many of Asia's best :
Vietnam - Nguyen Van Hai and Dinh Hong Quan
Uzbekistan - Olimjon Nazarov
Indonesia - Defry Palulu and Paisal Panjaitan
Philippines - Arnel Baconaje, Mark John Yap, JonJon Estrada, Charly Suarez and Jetro Pabustan
Thailand - Jakrawut Majungoen and Anuson Thonglueang
South Korea - Chan-Ho Song

Who said blondes have more fun ?
Pinoy power is heading to Vietnam.
And it's SMILE POWER!
We got Mark John Yap, Jetro Pabustan, Charly Suarez, Arnel Baconaje and da baddest of da baddest "the Wolverine" JonJon Estrada!!!!
THE GRAND HO TRAM STRIP VIETNAM
Saturday December 10th

FORMER Olympian and current World Boxing Association Asia super featherweight king Charly Suarez takes on Indonesian Defry Palulu on Dec. 10, 2022, at The Grand Ho Tram Strip in Vung Tau City, Vietnam.
The 34-year-old Suarez has already become one of the best Pinoy fighters despite only being a pro for just four years. The former amateur standout is dominating the local boxing scene by beating fighters like Marjohn Yap, Tomjune Mangubat, Delmar Pellio and recently Carlo Magali.
Suarez has had an impressive year thus far, winning all his in dominant fashion. He started the year with a 12th-round technical knockout of Mangubat, followed by a one-sided unanimous decision beating of Junny Salogaol. He then outclassed crafty veteran Yap by unanimous decision and also defeated tough Magali also by a unanimous verdict.
Suarez is now finally ranked in the World Boxing Council at No. 37 in the super featherweight class.
The 31-year-old Palulu, in the meantime, is on an impressive run, winning 10 of his last 11 fights. He hasn’t been beaten in six years. The last time he tasted defeat was when he lost by split decision to Jason Butar Butar.
Palulu has fought the likes of former world title challenger AJ “Bazooka” Banal and Isack Junior. He’s coming off a unanimous decision over Asad Asif Khan last June 12.
Suarez is 13-0 with seven knockouts, while Palulu is 25-2-2 with 14 knockouts.
Also in the same card, Arnel Baconaje (15-5, 11 KOs) challenges hometown bet Dinh Hong Kwan (9-1-1, 4 KOs) for the latter’s International Boxing Federation Asia lightweight belt.
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Quality match up at 130 between RoyRoy Sumugat and Ivor "the Killer" Lastrilla.
The Killer showed enterprise and even dominace early in this match, with Big Roy Sumugat keeping a cool head and probing for opportunities as the fight progressed.
D'Hammer was really composed and strong at the end of this one, and showed he has plenty more great performances to come. Lastrilla was impressive in parts of this contest to, he sets up some combinations on southpaw Sumugat that were really thoughtful.
This Sumugat v Lastrilla match up was really good to watch !

By Robert Hill
Another big day of professional boxing is set for October 11, with a 16-bout card scheduled at the Elorde Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque City.
The headline attractions feature two unbeaten flyweight contenders, Mac Abila and Angelus Pilapil, who will meet in a scheduled 10-round bout.
The co-feature sees Adam Farhan Nazrine take on Sitthidet Banti over 10 rounds for the vacant WBA Asia South Super Middleweight Championship.
The undercard provides plenty of additional action, including Leboy Atencio vs Jun Blazo at featherweight, Christian Gagarin vs Mark Tanggan at flyweight and Nico Ramos vs Peter Estiller at super featherweight.
The 16-bout programme also features emerging fighters across the light flyweight, bantamweight, super bantamweight, lightweight, super flyweight and minimumweight divisions.
📅 October 11, 2026
📍 Elorde Sports Center, Sucat, Parañaque City
⏰ First bell: 10:00 AM
With 16 bouts scheduled, it promises to be a full day of professional boxing in Parañaque.

By Robert Hill
Papua New Guinea’s growing presence on the international professional boxing scene continues tomorrow night when Kondup Samson Wailo steps into the ring at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, to face Auckland-based Niuean-Kiwi cruiserweight Duken Tutakitoa-Williams.
For Wailo, representing Maikuna Gym, it is officially his professional boxing debut — but the 28-year-old is hardly inexperienced.
He brings eight professional kickboxing bouts, more than 40 amateur fights, a PNG Heavyweight Kickboxing Championship and two professional boxing exhibition bouts into the contest.
His unbeaten opponent, Tutakitoa-Williams, has already recorded two professional victories, both by unanimous decision, and has nine professional rounds on his record.
On paper, Wailo enters as the less experienced professional boxer.
But the PNG fighter is embracing the challenge rather than avoiding it.
“Hungry dogs fight harder.”
That attitude reflects a broader development in PNG boxing, with more of the country's fighters now gaining opportunities to test themselves overseas.
Just weeks ago, Fidelis “The Bougainville Bomber” Laia scored a second-round knockout over Jhon Rey Tariao in Manila, Philippines.
In Australia, Mili “Mayhem” Saul recently returned to the ring with a fourth-round stoppage of experienced Thai opponent Saowaluk Nareepangsri on the Gold Coast.
New Zealand has also become an important battleground for PNG fighters.
John Ume has recorded significant wins there, while Sheilla Yama has built an impressive professional career in Auckland, most recently defending her IBF International Super Lightweight title against Australia's Jessica Messina.
Now Wailo gets his opportunity !!
Kondup Samson Wailo 🇵🇬 vs Duken Tutakitoa-Williams 🇳🇺🇳🇿
🥊 Cruiserweight
📅 Saturday, 3 October 2026
📍 Eventfinda Stadium, Auckland, New Zealand
🏛️ New Zealand Professional Boxing Association
🥊 Promoter: Oz Jabur — BX-9
For Wailo and Maikuna Gym, it is another chance for PNG boxing to step outside its home environment and prove itself against quality international opposition.

By VSP Promotions
Nguyễn Văn Hải's trip to the famous Korakuen Hall ended in round five on Saturday night. The referee stepped in at 2:48 to save the Vietnamese veteran from Japan's WBO Asia Pacific featherweight champion, Ryota Muto.
The night got harder before the first bell. Hải came in 300 grams over the featherweight limit at Friday's weigh-in, so only Muto could leave with the belt. Had Hải won, the title would have been declared vacant.
Once they got going, the 21-year-old southpaw set the tempo from round one. Muto worked behind the one-two and a hard straight left, then dug left uppercuts to the body and followed with the right hook, mixing his attack up and down. Hải is a former national champion with a deep amateur résumé, and he leaned on the tight, high guard that has carried him through a long career. From round two, though, his punches dried up. Once a fighter stops letting his hands go, a champion of Muto's quality gets to pick his shots at will. Muto kept going to the body, trapped Hải in the red corner in round five, and the referee had seen enough.
Credit where it is due. Muto is no ordinary regional champion. He won this belt in May by stopping Kenji Fujita, then the WBO's No.1 contender, and the WBO now rates him No.2 in the world. Even his corner admitted they had prepared counters that Hải never let them use.
For Hải, now 9-4 at 38, the lesson from Tokyo is clear. Against world-rated opposition, the guard alone won't win rounds. You have to make the other man respect your punches. For Vietnamese boxing, the bigger picture still matters: a Vietnamese fighter is getting the call to fight for regional titles against world-ranked champions at the sport's most iconic small hall. Those nights are where the next step gets learned.
Respect to Muto and his team, who held up a photo of the late Shigetoshi Kotari in the ring after the fight.
The result: Ryota Muto (Japan) def. Nguyễn Văn Hải (Vietnam) by TKO, Round 5, 2:48. WBO Asia Pacific featherweight title, 10 rounds scheduled. DYNAMIC GLOVE on U-NEXT vol.48, Korakuen Hall, Tokyo, Saturday 3 October 2026.

By VSP Boxing
Nguyễn Văn Hải makes weight for tomorrow night's featherweight clash in Tokyo.
Hải (9-3) takes on Japan's Ryota Muto (10-1) in a 10 round clash at the iconic Korakuen Hall.
Official weights: Nguyễn Văn Hải weighed 57.4 kg at the official weigh-in in Tokyo on 2 October, 300 g over the featherweight limit. Ryota Muto weighed 56.9 kg. Because of the miss, the WBO Asia Pacific featherweight title was on the line for Muto only: had Hải won, the title would have been declared vacant. Hải passed the fight-day weight check at 60.8 kg, under the 61.7 kg cap.
Originally posted on VSP Boxing's Facebook
Correction (4 Oct 2026): an earlier version of this article, and the original Facebook post quoted above, said Nguyễn Văn Hải made weight. He weighed 57.4 kg, 300 g over the limit.

By VSP Boxing
At ASIAD 20 – Aichi–Nagoya 2026, Nguyễn Thị Tâm has just won her women's 51kg boxing semi-final against Alua Balkibekova of Kazakhstan.
Tâm won 5–0, officially securing her place in the Gold Medal final.
🥇 Women's 51kg final – 2 October
🇻🇳 Nguyễn Thị Tâm
vs
🇨🇳 Wu Yu (China)
This will be Tâm's last bout at ASIAD 20, with the Gold Medal as the goal ahead.
Nguyễn Thị Tâm is also a three-time Victory8 champion with VSP Promotions in Vietnam, having fought and won on all three of her appearances at the event.
From Victory8 in Vietnam to the ASIAD stage, Tâm is once again in a major final of Asian boxing.
🇻🇳 Final on 2 October – Nguyễn Thị Tâm vs Wu Yu.
#NguyenThiTam #VietnamBoxing #ASIAD20 #AichiNagoya2026 #Victory8 #VSPPromotions
— — —
NGUYỄN THỊ TÂM TIẾN VÀO CHUNG KẾT TRANH HUY CHƯƠNG VÀNG! 🇻🇳
Tại ASIAD 20 – Aichi–Nagoya 2026, Nguyễn Thị Tâm vừa giành chiến thắng trước Alua Balkibekova của Kazakhstan trong trận bán kết boxing nữ hạng cân 51kg.
Tâm giành chiến thắng với tỷ số 5–0, qua đó chính thức giành quyền vào trận chung kết tranh Huy chương Vàng.
🥇 Chung kết hạng 51kg nữ – ngày 2/10
🇻🇳 Nguyễn Thị Tâm
vs
🇨🇳 Wu Yu (Trung Quốc)
Đây sẽ là trận đấu cuối cùng của Tâm tại ASIAD 20, với tấm Huy chương Vàng là mục tiêu phía trước.
Nguyễn Thị Tâm cũng là nhà vô địch Victory8 ba lần của VSP Promotions tại Việt Nam, từng thi đấu và giành chiến thắng trong cả ba lần tham dự giải đấu.
Từ Victory8 tại Việt Nam đến đấu trường ASIAD, Tâm tiếp tục có mặt ở một trận chung kết lớn của boxing châu Á.
🇻🇳 Chung kết ngày 2/10 – Nguyễn Thị Tâm vs Wu Yu.
#NguyenThiTam #VietnamBoxing #ASIAD20 #AichiNagoya2026 #Victory8 #VSPPromotions

By VSP Boxing
Nguyễn Thị Tâm continued to confirm her standing as one of Vietnamese boxing's leading hopes, defeating Bak Chorong (South Korea) 5-0 in the women's 51kg quarter-final at ASIAD 2026.
All 5 judges scored the bout for Nguyễn Thị Tâm, sending the Vietnamese boxer into the semi-finals and guaranteeing her at least one medal.
This is Nguyễn Thị Tâm's third straight win at ASIAD 2026. Before this, she beat Ramisha Shrestha (Nepal) 5-0 in the opening round, then defeated Guo Yi Xuan (Chinese Taipei) 4-1 in the round of 16.
Her run at ASIAD 2026 adds to Nguyễn Thị Tâm's impressive record. The Vietnamese boxer is a two-time Asian champion, won a world silver medal in 2023 and bronze at ASIAD 2018, and competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Notably, Nguyễn Thị Tâm is also a three-time Victory8 champion at boxing events organised by VSP Boxing in Vietnam.
🔥 Congratulations, Nguyễn Thị Tâm! Vietnam has a medal — and the journey continues! 🇻🇳🥊
— — —
NGUYỄN THỊ TÂM VÀO BÁN KẾT ASIAD 2026! 🇻🇳
Nguyễn Thị Tâm tiếp tục khẳng định vị thế của một trong những niềm hy vọng hàng đầu của Boxing Việt Nam khi đánh bại Bak Chorong (Hàn Quốc) với tỷ số 5-0 ở tứ kết hạng cân 51kg nữ tại ASIAD 2026.
Cả 5 trọng tài đều chấm chiến thắng cho Nguyễn Thị Tâm, giúp nữ võ sĩ Việt Nam giành quyền vào bán kết và chắc chắn có ít nhất một tấm huy chương.
Đây là chiến thắng thứ ba liên tiếp của Nguyễn Thị Tâm tại ASIAD 2026. Trước đó, cô vượt qua Ramisha Shrestha (Nepal) với tỷ số 5-0 ở vòng đầu, trước khi đánh bại Guo Yi Xuan (Đài Bắc Trung Hoa) với tỷ số 4-1 tại vòng 1/8.
Thành tích tại ASIAD 2026 tiếp tục nối dài bảng thành tích ấn tượng của Nguyễn Thị Tâm. Nữ võ sĩ Việt Nam từng hai lần vô địch châu Á, giành HCB thế giới năm 2023 và HCĐ tại ASIAD 2018, đồng thời từng góp mặt tại Olympic Tokyo 2020.
Đặc biệt, Nguyễn Thị Tâm cũng là nhà vô địch Victory8 ba lần tại các sự kiện boxing do VSP Boxing tổ chức tại Việt Nam.
🔥 Chúc mừng Nguyễn Thị Tâm! Việt Nam đã có huy chương — và hành trình vẫn tiếp tục! 🇻🇳🥊

One minute twenty-two seconds. Super welter. Lights out.
That’s the undercard energy Vietnam hosted: international names, real stakes, and finishers who don’t need twelve rounds to make a point.
Which HOIANA stoppage still lives in your head?
#VSPPromotions #HOIANALEGENDARY #ProBoxing #KO #BoxingVietnam

Bougainville’s Fidelis Laia takes another step forward in his professional boxing career when he heads to sunny Queensland this Saturday night.
Laia will face Australian boxer Thomas Ward in a four-round welterweight clash at the beachside Mantra on View in Surfers Paradise.
The bout will be contested at 147lb, one division above the 140lb weight class that is more suited to the PNG boxer.
Laia will give away around five inches in height to the rangy Australian orthodox striker, but the heavy-handed Bougainville fighter will be looking to make his power the great equaliser.
The event also features another exciting Papua New Guinean boxer, Mili Saul, who will take on a Thai opponent in a six-round contest.
Now based in Brisbane, Saul recorded two victories in 2025, and Saturday night will mark her first outing of 2026.
The main event features outstanding Jackson Jon England, who faces unbeaten Kazakhstan star Sultan Zaurbek (20–0) in a world-level qualifier.
It promises to be another exciting night of international professional boxing put together by renowned promoter Jamie Myer on the Gold Coast.

Vũ Quang Vinh opened HOIANA Legendary on 3 Aug 2024 at Hoiana Resort & Golf with the hardest kind of introduction: a professional debut against Jeong Jae Wook, a Korean opponent who already had four pro fights and a strong chin.
Vinh did not rush the moment. He stayed patient, kept working, and the persistence paid off in the closing seconds when he finished the fight by TKO. The result mattered beyond one debut: it became part of a Vietnamese breakthrough night on a card built around international title stakes.
This was the opener to a historic Central Vietnam event — the first major international dual-title night in the region, with WBO Global and IBF Asia titles, seven nations and eight bouts, presented by VSP Promotions at Hoiana Resort & Golf, Quảng Nam / South Hội An.
Was Vinh’s late finish the most telling moment of the opener?

Ryan Garcia didn’t just “get the win.” He shut the noise down in Round 2.
WBC welterweight title. First defense. T-Mobile Arena. Conor Benn coming forward like the script said he would — pressure, body work, try to make it ugly. Garcia had already told the world what was coming: Benn can’t outbox him, so he’ll rush.
And then the shot everyone wasn’t talking about.
Pre-fight, the left hook got all the romance. On the night? A lightning right hand put Benn on the canvas. Eight-count. Benn tried to continue. Garcia swarmed. Referee Thomas Taylor waved it off at 1:25 of Round 2.
That’s not a debate. That’s a statement finish.
Garcia moves to 26-2 (21 KOs). Benn’s big welterweight night ends early. And before the gloves were cold, “King Ry” was already pointing at the next names ringside — Teofimo Lopez… and the old rival, Devin Haney.
So here’s the real question:
Was this the night Garcia reminded everyone he’s still the problem… or the night the welterweight division just got a lot louder?

Mark Magsayo walked into T-Mobile Arena as one of the Philippines’ most proven operators — former world champion energy, five straight wins, and a second outing under the Zuffa banner on a massive Las Vegas card.
Across from him: Andres Cortes. Undefeated. Top Rank / Zuffa pedigree. The same Cortes who talked a big game about Filipino fighters… and who just refused to let this night become Magsayo’s statement.
Early on, Cortes outboxed him — sharp shots, counters, body work. There were knockdown calls in rounds 3 and 4 that got reversed later — messy optics, but the scoreboard still drifted the American’s way. Magsayo did what champions do late: he pushed, he came forward, he tried to close the gap.
It wasn’t enough.
All three judges: 97–93 Cortes.
Magsayo falls to 29-3 (19 KOs). Cortes stays perfect at 26-0 (13 KOs). Five-fight streak: gone.
This wasn’t a quiet loss. It was a reminder that at this level, starting slow against an unbeaten technician costs you the night — even when you finish stronger.
What’s next for Magsayo after this?
MAGSAYO vs CORTES — UD LOSS

Mark Magsayo is, without question, one of the Philippines most exciting and best-performed fighters of recent years.
And this is a huge fight on one of the biggest boxing cards of the year.
So where is the love??
Across the ring is Andres Cortes — an unbeaten fighter, a Top Rank poster boy, and a guy who clearly believes he belongs at the top.
But there’s a little history here.
Cortes is the guy previously matched with the Philippines’ own Charly Suarez — and, shamefully, that fight never happened. Cortes was a last minute dropout without offering any explanation.
But afterwards, after ducking a beat down from the King's Warrior, Cortes turned the talk up, dismissing Suarez with:
“I’ll send him back to his 9-5!”
And then went even further on social media:
“You tweaking, I’ll smack him any day of the week — him and Manny Pac-Man.”
Tough talk.
Now Mark Magsayo has the honour.
Shut this guy up — once and for all.
MAGSAYO vs CORTES
September 12, 2026 — T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas

Botswana’s Moabi Ngaka returns to the ring for a 6 rounds all out war against hot China prospect Hu Xiong on September 26th - more news coming soon

Credits to Luis Antonio Fabregar for the fantastic action photos taken at the August 30th 2O26 international event in Manila.
Congratulations all fighters who took part.

Papua New Guinea
Prospect Fidelis Laia started well despite wearing a couple of big shots in the opening round, to defeat the Philippines Jhon Rey Tariao by KO in the second round.
Laia stunned the opponent with a wicked jab forcing him to the canvas, then completed the job with two more knockdowns shortly after.
Big thanks to Mam Cucuy Elorde, Anthony Arieta and the opponent Jhon Rey Tariao for the opportunity to compete with the big dogs.
Well done to Fidelis Laia, who overcame lots of pre-fight difficulties to score a great win.

Afternoon session is about to start.
Papua New Guinea boxer Fidelis Laia v Jhon Rey Tariao will be fight #2

Elorde Sports Center, Parañaque City, Manila
Sunday, August 30, 2026
MORNING SESSION
Starting approximately 9:00 AM
MORNING SESSION CHAMPIONSHIP
Adam Farhan Nazrine vs Mandeep Singh
168 lbs — 8 rounds
Vacant WBC Asian Silver Super Middleweight Title
This is the championship centerpiece of the morning session.
Some particularly interesting international matchups
Hazman Siew vs Singha Siringuan
126 lbs — 6 rounds
This is especially interesting given Siew's recent breakthrough as a regional champion.
Adam Farhan Nazrine vs Mandeep Singh
168 lbs — 8 rounds
WBC Asian Silver Title
The only championship bout on the morning card.
Keng Fai Hui vs Mark Angel Sadang
160 lbs — 4 rounds
Hui brings his unusual MMA/combat-sports background into professional boxing

Weights right !
Papua New Guinea's Fidelis Laia and the Philippines' Jhon Rey Tariao both weighed in at 145 lb for tomorrow's international SIKLAB NG AGOSTO in Parañaque.
Boxers from 9 countries will be vying for supremacy on the giant 23 bout card.

And Papua New Guinea are just getting started!
Sheilla Yama has continued her unbeaten rise, defeating Australia’s Jessica Messina tonight at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand.
Sheilla Yama has continued her unbeaten rise, defeating Australia’s Jessica Messina tonight at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand.
With the Unanimous Decision victory, Yama successfully defended her IBF International Super Lightweight title, improving her professional record to an impressive 8-0 and rocketing to #2 in the world rankings.
Messina, who previously impressed with a victory at a VSP Promotions event in Vietnam, now moves to 8 wins and 2 losses following her defeat to Yama tonight.
Sheilla Yama and John Ume have been outstanding ambassadors for Papua New Guinea delivering strong performances in recent appearances in New Zealand.
But PNG boxing is only just getting started.
Later this month, Fidelis Laia, the Bougainville Bomber, will head into the cauldron of Asian boxing when he competes at an international professional boxing event in Manila, Philippines on August 30.
Laia will proudly represent Papua New Guinea at an event featuring professional boxers from nine different countries. The flag is flying. The fighters are rising.
Papua New Guinea is only just getting started

Some of the Philippines best young prospects will be headed to Manila later this month, to showcase their talents at the mammoth UKC XXXIV card and repel the advances of foreign invaders.
Boxers from nine countries will be competing for supremacy at this epic international event including : Papua New Guinea, Macao, Canada, United Kingdom, Indonesia, Taiwan, Malaysia, India

One of the standout bouts on the August 30 UKC card in Manila will see two of the Philippines' brightest young prospects collide for the vacant Philippine Games & Amusements Board (GAB) Youth Super Flyweight Championship.
Geraldine Oclarit (6-2, 6 KOs) takes on Diory Boy Sixta (4-1, 4 KOs) in what promises to be an explosive contest between two 20-year-old knockout artists.
Oclarit enters the bout with six wins from eight professional outings, while Sixta has rebounded impressively with four victories in his first five fights.
Both fighters scored stoppage wins in their most recent appearances, adding even more intrigue to this evenly matched championship clash.
With a prestigious national youth title on the line, the winner will take a significant step towards establishing themselves as one of the Philippines' rising stars in the super flyweight division.
This cracking fight will take place at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañaque on August 30th.

What are you doing on August 30?
Watching boxing in the Philippines—that's what!
The Bougainville Bomber, Fidelis Laia, takes on the Philippines' Jhon Rey Tariao in Manila on 30 August as part of a huge international fight card.
Fidelis is ready to represent Bougainville and Papua New Guinea with ferocious intent.
Hungry dogs fight harder.

Spence is fighting Australian killer Tim Tszyu this Sunday, and despite a three-year layoff, is expected to win.
Danilo Creati was a 5x national champion, and fought in Vietnam against the excellent Ho Chi Minh City boxer Tran Duc Tho.
For the real fight fans - enjoy their contest !

It's more fun in the Philippines !
Big international event coming to the Elorde Sports Centre this August 30th.
The Bougainville Bomber Fidelis Laia gets his first taste of Philippines hospitality when he meets Mindanao's Jhon Rey Tariao in Manila.
Explosive to say the least - these boys will be looking to leave the judges out of it.
KA-BOOM !!

The "Bougainville Bomber" Fidelis Laia is set to head to the Philippines next month for a training camp and has received an invitation to compete on an exciting international fight card in Manila on 30th August.
The event will be staged at the famous Elorde Grand Ballroom, and there is no doubt the hard-hitting fighter from Bougainville would be a tremendous addition to an already star-studded, multi-national lineup.
A huge thank you to our good friends Anthony Arieta and Mam Cucuy Elorde for working hard to make this fantastic opportunity possible.
We hope to have some exciting news to share very soon!

Referees must treat 4 rounds fight with the same level of preparation, dedication, and respect as you would a 12 rounds world title fight. So how should you prepare?
1. Research about the boxers on YouTube and their style of fighting.
2. No drinking the night before. Don't eat anything that could cause stomach discomfort. Sleep early and get a good rest.
3. Prepare all your gears the night before.
4. Meditate and trust yourself that you can do it. It is not the time for self doubt.
5. Conduct yourself as if you are on the world stage for a world championship fight. Remeber that everyone is watching.
6. It's ok to make a mistake but its not okay to hesitate. When you make a call, make it loud and clear.
Know that it is not about you. It's about ensuring the safety and the fairness for the boxers who put their lives in the ring. At the end, what Tony Weeks said during the Referee training seminar encapsulates it well. "You do it for the love and respect of the sport".
#professionalboxing #proboxingreferee #IBF #Tonyweeks

Quá già. Quá chậm. Hết sức. Chỉ là cái bóng của ngày xưa.
Đó là những gì người ta đã nói về huyền thoại Việt Nam Nguyễn Văn Hải trong những tuần gần đây.
Nhưng người ta cũng nói rằng: càng bị nghi ngờ, chiến thắng càng ngọt ngào.
Và vào Chủ Nhật, ngày 21 tháng 6, "Sát thủ Hà Nội" sẽ bước lên sàn đấu để khiến tất cả phải nhớ lại anh là ai.
Các bạn trẻ – hãy luôn tôn trọng các bậc tiền bối.

Trong suốt một thời gian dài tưởng chừng như vô tận, Nguyễn Văn Hải luôn là một trong những tên tuổi lớn của làng quyền Anh Việt Nam.
Nhưng thời thế đang thay đổi.
Võ sĩ trẻ triển vọng đến từ Sài Gòn, Ly Quốc Dung, đã âm thầm xây dựng thành tích chuyên nghiệp bất bại 4-0 — và anh ấy trông gần như không thể bị đánh bại trong suốt hành trình đó.
Hơn thế nữa, Dung không hề e ngại khi phải đối đầu với một huyền thoại như Nguyễn Văn Hải. Thực tế, anh tin rằng người đàn anh sẽ sớm bị bỏ lại trong cái bóng của mình.
Dung nói rằng anh quá nhanh, quá khó nắm bắt, và đơn giản là quá điển trai đối với “Hanoi Hitman”.
Và biết đâu anh ấy đúng.
Chúng ta sẽ có câu trả lời vào Chủ Nhật, ngày 21 tháng 6

Hôm nay là đối thủ, ngày mai lại là đồng đội.
Trần Đức Thọ của Việt Nam và ngôi sao người Ý Danilo Creati trên chuyến tàu ở Seoul, South Korea.
Cả hai đều giành những chiến thắng ấn tượng chỉ vài giờ sau khi bức ảnh này được chụp.
Có dấu hiệu nào của sự hồi hộp trước trận đấu không?
ĐẲNG CẤP!

Võ sĩ người Papua New Guinea Fidelis Laia mới đây đã có trận ra mắt nhà nghề trên một sự kiện quyền Anh quốc tế tại Việt Nam mang tên Trigger Promotion 7.
Biệt danh "Bougainville Bomber", Laia đã để lại nhiều ấn tượng dù phải chấp nhận thất bại tính điểm trước tay đấm chủ nhà đầy lì lợm Cao Quốc Việt. Ngay sau trận đấu, anh tuyên bố sẽ sớm trở lại với một phiên bản hoàn thiện và mạnh mẽ hơn.
Và đúng như lời hứa, Laia không hề lãng phí thời gian.
Tháng tới, anh sẽ tới Surfers Paradise, bang Queensland (Úc) để thượng đài cùng võ sĩ chủ nhà Jesse Travers, một cái tên được đánh giá là có thực lực nhưng vẫn chưa nhận được sự chú ý tương xứng.
Travers sở hữu nền tảng nghiệp dư rất đáng nể và từ lâu đã được xem là một võ sĩ giàu tiềm năng. Trong quá khứ, anh từng có những trận đấu rất sít sao với các đối thủ chất lượng như Clay Waterman và Steve Spark.
Sau bảy năm rời xa võ đài, Travers trở lại thi đấu vào tháng 4 năm nay và ngay lập tức gây ấn tượng mạnh khi hạ gục Blake Payne ngay trong hiệp đầu tiên. Giờ đây, anh sẽ hướng tới việc nối dài đà thăng tiến đó khi đối đầu với vị khách đến từ Papua New Guinea.
Tuy nhiên, Laia không hề e ngại thử thách phía trước.
"Đây là cơ hội tuyệt vời để tôi bước thêm một bước trên con đường sự nghiệp," Laia chia sẻ.
"Tôi sẽ tăng hạng cân để đấu với võ sĩ người Úc này, nhưng điều đó không thành vấn đề vì trước đây tôi đã từng thi đấu ở hạng cân đó.

"Tôi biết mình bắt đầu sự nghiệp quyền Anh nhà nghề khá muộn, vì vậy tôi phải trân trọng và nắm bắt mọi cơ hội đến với mình."
FIGHTS IN THE CITY
Được tổ chức bởi Jamie Myer Productions
Jesse Travers vs Fidelis Laia
Thông tin sự kiện:
Ngày: 18 tháng 7
Thời gian: Từ 17:30
Địa điểm: Mantra on View, Surfers Paradise, Queensland, Úc See less

41st IBF ANNUAL CONVENTION in Vietnam is now complete and we are happy to report mission success.
300 delegates from 40 countries explored and experienced beautiful Vietnam. We expect over 150 delegates to extend their stay in Vietnam while over 80% say they plan to come back to Vietnam for future vacation. We continue to promote Vietnam as a potential destination for international sports events and we need to make it easier for event organizers to get approvals.
Enduring theme of these events is about being "One & Family". It starts with the "Love & Respect" for the sports that brought us together. To help each other get better, to share experiences, and remembering that it is all about protecting the safety of the boxers in and out of the ring. It is not about power over them but rather power to serve, guide, advice, and respect the path they chose. We strive to make it a little smoother and safer.
VBO is pleased to welcome Vietnam Boxing Federation - VBF to join the convention in the organizing committee. We are joining hands to restart professional boxing in Vietnam. Stay stuned.
We will release more photos once IBF has had the chance to review them and release it officially.
#ibfconvention #grandhotram #vbo #IBF #VBF #professionalboxing #41stibfconvention

Quyền anh chuyên nghiệp sẽ trở lại TP. Hồ Chí Minh vào Chủ Nhật này, ngày 21 tháng 6.
Thẻ đấu lần này được đánh giá rất hấp dẫn — quy tụ những tay đấm nội địa nổi bật của Việt Nam cùng với các võ sĩ quốc tế chất lượng.
Trận đấu chính sẽ chứng kiến tài năng trẻ bất bại Lý Quốc Dũng đối đầu với tay đấm đầy sức mạnh Nguyễn Văn Hải, khi cả hai đều rất tự tin vào chiến thắng.
Đây là một sự kiện không thể bỏ lỡ tại Trigger Stadium, Thảo Điền.
Hãy đánh dấu lịch của bạn ngay từ bây giờ.
Thông tin cập nhật sẽ sớm được công bố.

Bạn có thể được tha thứ nếu nghĩ rằng họ đang thử vai cho James Bond 007 tiếp theo cùng “Bond girl” nóng bỏng — nhưng không!
Còn “nóng” hơn nữa là cô nàng người Úc Shanell Dargan (người vừa thi đấu tại Việt Nam), đứng cùng Giám đốc Xếp hạng IBF Ben Keilty và Chủ tịch IBF Daryl Peoples.
Hội nghị của Liên đoàn Quyền Anh Quốc tế (IBF) cực kỳ thành công tại Vũng Tàu hôm nay chính thức khép lại. See less

Nhà vô địch thế giới IBF duy nhất còn lại của Philippines, Pedro Taduran, đã có mặt tại Việt Nam hôm nay.
Taduran, người vừa có những chiến thắng đầy ấn tượng trước võ sĩ Nhật Bản Ginjiro Shigeoka, đang ngày càng khẳng định mình là một trong những nhà vô địch lì lợm nhất ở hạng cân của mình.
Là gương mặt quen thuộc tại các sự kiện của VSP, anh từ lâu đã bày tỏ mong muốn được đến Việt Nam — và giờ đây điều đó đã trở thành hiện thực.
Trong khuôn khổ sự kiện của International Boxing Federation, IBF đã dành sự đãi ngộ xứng đáng cho nhà vô địch của mình khi đưa Taduran đến Việt Nam bằng vé hạng thương gia.
Một chuyến đi hoàn toàn xứng đáng cho một “chiến binh đường xa” thực thụ

Võ sĩ Trần Tấn Quang Đạo và Lim Song đứng hai bên nhà quảng bá quyền Anh nổi tiếng người Úc Angelo Di Carlo (ACE Promotions).
Angelo hiện đang có mặt tại Vũng Tàu để tham dự IBF World Boxing Convention, sự kiện đang được tổ chức tại Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
Angelo Di Carlo được xem là một nhân vật then chốt (đôi khi được gọi là “bố già”) của làng quyền Anh Úc nhờ sự gắn bó lâu dài với vai trò nhà quảng bá, người sắp xếp trận đấu và người hỗ trợ các võ sĩ.
Ông đã góp phần phát triển sự nghiệp của nhiều tay đấm xuất sắc, gần đây nhất là cựu vô địch thế giới Liam Paro.

Hãy có mặt ngay sát võ đài vào ngày mai và trải nghiệm một ngày trọn vẹn của quyền anh chuyên nghiệp đỉnh cao tại sự kiện UKC Triple Threat — với 19 trận đấu chuyên nghiệp cùng dàn võ sĩ trẻ triển vọng và những tay đấm giàu kinh nghiệm.
Elorde chưa bao giờ làm người hâm mộ thất vọng!
Ngày 24 tháng 5, 2026
DANH SÁCH THI ĐẤU:
Trận chính
Arvin Jhon Paciones vs Richard Laspoña
Các trận nổi bật
Zyvyr John Medecilo vs Tatsuro Nakashima
Junny Bugas vs Jeven Villacite
Claire Villarosa vs Felipe Tiempo
Các trận undercard
Jeff Santos vs Miller Alapormina
Yuga Ozaki vs Jonathan Refugio
Wesley Caga vs Sandy Volante
Ricson Hanginan vs Harry Omac
Salvador Gajana vs Wendel Babasol
Cherry Mae Rosas vs Charimae Salvador
Ronerick Ballesteros vs Pablito Canada
Daniel Balois vs Sherwin Andes
Các trận bổ sung
Cristobal Jr. Legane vs TBA
Vincent Siordia vs Kresler Tenorio
Jeffer Rhoy Mendoza vs Eranio Pisador
Mikko Camingawan vs Rovick Embuscado
Meredy Michael vs Aisah Alico
Ian Carl Muyso vs Marvin Zamora
Franz Carl Muyso vs Ariel Antonio
Hãy rủ bạn bè và gia đình cùng tham gia để tận hưởng một ngày tuyệt vời và chứng kiến QUYỀN ANH Ở ĐỈNH CAO NHẤT!

TONY WEEKS ĐÃ ĐẾN.
Nếu bạn muốn trở thành người giỏi nhất, hãy học từ những người giỏi nhất.
Và Tony là một trong những trọng tài được công nhận và kính trọng nhất trong làng quyền anh chuyên nghiệp.
VBO hân hạnh thông báo rằng tất cả các học viên Việt Nam sẽ được giảm 50% nếu đăng ký ngay qua đường link đặc biệt bên dưới.
Tài liệu đào tạo có sẵn bằng tiếng Anh, Hàn Quốc, Trung Quốc, Nhật Bản và Việt Nam.
Số lượng chỗ có hạn, hãy nhanh tay đăng ký!
Link đăng ký:

Naoya Inoue và Katie Taylor sẽ được vinh danh tại lễ trao giải thường niên của International Boxing Federation vào ngày 27 tháng 5, diễn ra trong khuôn khổ hội nghị thường niên lần thứ 41 của tổ chức tại Grand Ho Tram Resort and Casino.
Inoue, với thành tích 33 trận toàn thắng (27 KO), đã thi đấu bốn lần trong năm 2025, lần lượt đánh bại Ye Joon Kim (KO hiệp 4), Ramon Cardenas (TKO hiệp, Murodjon Akhmadaliev (thắng điểm sau 12 hiệp) và David Picasso (thắng điểm sau 12 hiệp). Võ sĩ 33 tuổi này cũng đã mở màn chiến dịch năm 2026 bằng chiến thắng tính điểm trước Junto Nakatani và sẽ nhận giải thưởng Jersey Joe Walcott dành cho Nam võ sĩ xuất sắc nhất năm của IBF.
Trong khi đó, Katie Taylor sẽ được trao danh hiệu Nữ võ sĩ xuất sắc nhất năm.
Dù chỉ thi đấu một trận trong năm 2025, nhưng đó lại là một trong những màn trình diễn ấn tượng nhất trong sự nghiệp lẫy lừng với thành tích 25 thắng - 1 thua (6 KO) của Taylor. Cô đã đánh bại đối thủ lâu năm Amanda Serrano bằng chiến thắng tính điểm đồng thuận trong trận thứ ba — và có thể là cuối cùng — của cặp đấu này tại Madison Square Garden vào tháng 7.
Chiến thắng này nối tiếp hai trận thắng gây nhiều tranh cãi trước Serrano vào các năm 2022 và 2024. Tuy nhiên lần này, không còn bất kỳ nghi ngờ nào khi Taylor hoàn toàn vượt trội trong suốt 10 hiệp đấu.
Sẽ còn thêm nhiều thông tin sắp được cập nhật

VSP có thể khẳng định rằng Le Thi Bang là nữ võ sĩ quyền Anh xuất sắc nhất mà chúng tôi từng được chứng kiến tại Việt Nam.
Bang đã tạo nên một trong những màn trình diễn ấn tượng nhất tại Southeast Asian Games năm 2015 khi giành huy chương vàng trước đối thủ đẳng cấp thế giới người Philippines Nesthy Petecio.
Nếu muốn xem một màn trình diễn hoàn hảo về khoảng cách, thời điểm ra đòn và góc đánh, hãy xem lại trận đấu đó. Đó thực sự là vẻ đẹp của quyền Anh đỉnh cao.
Nhưng chiến thắng ấy đã diễn ra cách đây 11 năm, và sau một thời gian dài rời xa sàn đấu, Bang đã bất ngờ trở lại vào tháng trước tại Trigger Promotion 7.
Ở tuổi 33, Lê Thị Bằng quyết định chuyển sang thi đấu chuyên nghiệp — và cô ngay lập tức tạo dấu ấn mạnh mẽ. Đối đầu với một đối thủ trẻ tài năng của nước chủ nhà, Bang đã thể hiện sự điềm tĩnh và sức mạnh để giành chiến thắng bằng knock-out kỹ thuật.
Tháng tới, cô sẽ tiếp tục thượng đài tại Trigger Promotion 8 ở Ho Chi Minh City, nơi cô hướng tới thành tích 2-0 trong sự nghiệp chuyên nghiệp khi chạm trán tay đấm người Ấn Độ bất bại Sandhya Kanojia.
Con đường đến đỉnh cao luôn đầy thử thách — nhưng những gì Bang thể hiện trong trận ra mắt cho thấy cô hoàn toàn có thể tạo nên điều đặc biệt.
Le Thi Bang hoàn toàn có thể trở thành một trong những huyền thoại thể thao vĩ đại nhất của đất nước.

Botswana’s Moabi “The Eagle” Ngaka is no stranger to Vietnamese fight fans.
He recently stepped into the ring in Saigon against the battle-hardened southpaw Cao Quốc Việt, delivering a composed and skilful performance despite moving up multiple weight divisions for the bout.
That willingness to challenge himself has opened the next door for Ngaka, as Chinese scouts were super impressed with what he showed in Vietnam. The Botswana boxer appeared unlucky on the judges' scorecards that night, and now gets the opportunity to redress that misfortune in Shanghai.
Ngaka heads to China this month, where he will face the nation’s #4 super lightweight contender, Dilixiati Simayi, in a six-round main event at the iconic Shanghai Mercedes-Benz Arena.
Fight date: May 17.
Stay tuned !

Nine foreign boxers competed in the recent Trigger Promotion 7 in Ho Chi Minh City, including two debutants from Papua New Guinea.
Fidelis Laia and Tau Bowen put on cracking performances, and with the benefit of their first international showings under their belt, expect to see both these exciting prospects in the winner's list very soon.
-VSP PROMOTIONS

Năm 2010, khi mới 13 tuổi, David Benavidez đã tập luyện cùng huyền thoại quyền anh số 1 thế giới lúc bấy giờ là Manny Pacquiao tại phòng tập Wild Card Gym.Cậu thần tượng Pacquiao và được truyền cảm hứng để trở thành một võ sĩ vĩ đại, thậm chí còn luyện tập những chuỗi đòn nhanh và đầy uy lực theo phong cách của anh ấy.Mười sáu năm sau, Benavidez giờ đã trở thành nhà vô địch ở ba hạng cân.

History was made in Ho Chi Minh City this past Sunday , as Timor-Leste’s own Francisco Fernandes carved his name into the sport - becoming the first fighter from his nation to win a professional boxing match in Vietnam.
Competing on the international stage at Trigger Promotion 7, Fernandes delivered a tough, uncompromising performance against Vietnam’s rugged Phạm Tùng Lâm.
It wasn’t easy, and it wasn’t pretty — but it was exactly what it needed to be.
The grit, heart, and the will to win was there for all to see.
Now 2–0 as a professional, Fernandes is quickly emerging as a standard-bearer for a new wave of Timorese boxing talent. And if this fight proved anything, it’s that Timor-Leste isn’t just showing up — they are coming to BANG !.
And now the whole country can relive it.
The fight video is live — a piece of history ready for Timor-Leste to savor.
Watch and enjoy.
The first of many.

These shorts have already stepped into the ring in Vietnam— and they’re only just getting started.
Built locally by KO QUEEN
Backed from Melbourne by Vinh Nguyễn Photos
Different paths. Same goal — supporting fighters.
More to come.

Congratulations to Francisco Fernandes, who went 2-0 with a rugged display in Ho Chi Minh City yesterday.
Francisco became the first ever Timorese to win a pro boxing match in Vietnam, and he definitely won't be the last !!

80% rủi ro của một sự kiện thể thao tại Việt Nam không nằm trên sàn đấu hay lượng vé bán ra, nó nằm ở một thứ khiến các nhà đầu tư đều e ngại.
Đưa một sự kiện thể thao đẳng cấp quốc tế về Việt Nam là một bài toán kinh tế thể thao hấp dẫn. Khán giả sẵn sàng móc hầu bao, truyền thông săn đón, nhà tài trợ sẵn sàng rót vốn. Thế nhưng, rào cản lại nằm ở khâu hành chính.
Hãy nghe những chia sẻ rất thẳng thắn từ Mr. Lim Song (Chủ tịch VSP - Nhà tổ chức sự kiện boxing quốc tế) khi làm phép so sánh giữa thị trường Việt Nam và quốc tế:
"Hàn Quốc và Malaysia đã có một cách tiếp cận rất thú vị, trong đó các chính sách quản lý thiên về việc tạo điều kiện mang lại doanh thu và lợi nhuận nhiều hơn là các quy định rườm rà về mặt thủ tục.
Lấy ví dụ như khi chúng tôi tổ chức một sự kiện quyền anh chuyên nghiệp ở Hàn Quốc, về cơ bản là không cần phải xin giấy phép từ chính phủ. Chúng tôi chỉ cần làm việc với các liên đoàn hoặc hiệp hội và dồn sức tập trung vào khía cạnh thương mại...
Trong khi đó ở Việt Nam cho đến nay, dưới góc nhìn của một đơn vị tổ chức, tôi cho rằng khoảng 80% rủi ro đến từ vấn đề thủ tục, sự chậm trễ và thời gian chờ đợi để được phê duyệt."
Đây là một góc nhìn cực kỳ thẳng thắn từ người trong cuộc. Khi chính sách quản lý đặt nặng thủ tục hơn là tạo hành lang thương mại, chúng ta đang vô tình tự trói chân mình trong việc thu hút dòng vốn đầu tư thể thao.
Theo ông Lim, việc phụ trách chuyên môn và pháp lý có thể được giao cho các Liên đoàn để nhà tổ chức sự kiện dồn 100% nguồn lực vào việc tối ưu nội dung (OTT, truyền thông, phát sóng, tài trợ...), từ đó tạo ra doanh thu và lợi nhuận cao nhất cho sự kiện hoặc giải đấu.

Some of the most complete fighters in world boxing come out of Uzbekistan.
Technically brilliant. Relentless. Composed under pressure. These are fighters built on discipline, shaped by elite amateur systems, and sharpened into ruthless professionals.
This April, Vietnam will get a very close look at that pedigree when undefeated Uzbek prospect Islombek Pirmanov arrives in Ho Chi Minh City.
And the Uzbek man comes carrying not just momentum—but expectation.
The expectation that he is the next name to emerge from a country that continues to produce world-class talent at an astonishing rate.
Before turning professional, Pirmanov built a foundation few can match.
A staggering amateur record of 230–12 speaks not only to activity, but dominance. It is the kind of experience that forges instinct, timing, and ring intelligence at the highest level.
But it’s what he’s done since entering the professional ranks that demands attention.
Pirmanov stands at 9–0, with nine knockouts.
No decisions. No doubts.
Every fight ended inside the distance.
Clinical. Explosive. Inevitable.
Now, he brings that perfect record to Vietnam—into a boxing scene that is rapidly gaining a reputation of its own. One built on opportunity, but also on accountability. A place where fighters don’t wait, don’t protect records, and don’t turn down challenges.
Standing across from him will be Vietnam’s own Nguyễn Văn Hải, a proven and respected competitor known for taking on difficult fights, often under less-than-ideal circumstances.
A fighter who has consistently stepped forward when others might hesitate.
Which makes this matchup all the more compelling.
Because when a knockout artist with a flawless record meets a battle-tested local who refuses to step back, there is only one possible outcome:
A REAL fight.
On April 19 in Ho Chi Minh City, one of Uzbekistan’s most dangerous rising talents puts his perfect run on the line against a man who has built his reputation on accepting every challenge put in front of him.
For Pirmanov, it’s another statement.
For Vietnam, it’s another step forward.
And for everyone watching, this is exactly what boxing should be !

“We’d Destroy Him” — Team Benavidez Dismisses Opetaia After Glanton Fight
WTF ? Surely April Fool's Day has come early !!!
David Benavidez hasn’t even fought for the cruiserweight titles yet, but his team is already talking about what comes next — and they don’t seem overly impressed with Australia’s undefeated champion Jai Opetaia.
Benavidez is preparing for a major test against Gilberto Ramirez on May 2 in a fight that could crown him unified cruiserweight champion. But while that bout remains the immediate focus, Team Benavidez is already eyeing the rest of the division.
And Jai Opetaia is THE DIVISION !
But after watching his recent win over Brandon Glanton, Benavidez’s father and trainer José Benavidez Sr. didn’t hold back.
According to Benavidez Sr., the Australian star didn’t look nearly as dangerous as his reputation suggests.
“He looked tired in there,” Benavidez Sr. said.
"He couldn’t get Glanton out of there and didn’t make the adjustments.
With David’s pressure, experience, and power — we would stop and destroy him.”
DESTROY HIM ?
Possibly the drink talking, or tongue in cheek optimism ?
The Benavidez move to light heavyweight has been successful yet hardly ominous, with Gvozdyk and Morrell showing him that quality bigger boys aren't so easy to push around. These were tough and hard fought battles for David Benavidez, where he possessed no observable physical ascendancy.
And yet Team Benavidez are talking it up as if they already own the cruiserweight division ?
This is Opetaia's house, one that has been built on a trail of broken bodies, enhancing a reputation as one of the most avoided fighters in the sport.
But for now, Benavidez must first get past Ramirez. And if he succeeds, the war of words with Opetaia could quickly turn into one of boxing’s most explosive cruiserweight showdowns — potentially later this year or in early 2027.

Papua New Guinea will take its boxing talent on the road this April, with four highly promising athletes travelling to Ho Chi Minh City for an international professional boxing event.
Leading the group is Junior Kauko Raka (seated), widely regarded as Papua New Guinea’s most recognised professional boxer.
Raka says the team is pumped about the opportunity, and confident they can deliver killer performances.
“We know that Vietnamese fighters compete with great spirit,” Raka said.
“I’ve been there before — they got skills and they’re tough brother.
“But I have warning for them.
“My team has been working extra hard, and we’re coming to give everything we’ve got.
We want to show that Papua New Guinea can mix it with the big boys. We're on the world stage now.
“We are real dogs brother. All bite - no quit.
“So please tell Vietnam they better be ready — we ain’t playing.
“We going to shock a lot of people this April.
TRIGGER PROMOTION 7 will be held in Thao Dien HCMC on Sunday April 19th.
The event will be televised and live streamed with an expected international audience of more than 2 million people.
* pictured: boxers Tau Bowen, Magdalyn Menjawi, Fidelis Laia, Junior Raka (seated), with trainer Nelson John (far right)

Two outstanding fighters are set to go head-to-head in Ho Chi Minh City next month as Vietnam’s growing professional boxing scene continues to embrace its “No Ducking” philosophy.
Vietnamese star Nguyễn Văn Hải has become a respected name in the nation’s fight sports. Despite limited opportunities in professional boxing, the “Hanoi Hitman” has compiled a solid 8–3 record.
What makes that record even more impressive is the context. Many of Hải’s bouts have come on short notice and without a full training camp, and his defeats have all been competitive points losses against unbeaten fighters ranked inside the world’s top 30.
On April 19, Hải will once again answer a late call for a high-level challenge.
Standing across the ring will be Uzbekistan’s Islombek Pirmanov. Uzbekistan has built a reputation as a production line for technically brilliant boxers, and Vietnam is honoured to welcome Pirmanov for this exciting clash.
Pirmanov was an exceptional amateur, compiling a remarkable 230–12 record as a junior competitor.
Since turning professional, he has been even more destructive.
The Uzbek arrives undefeated at 9-0, and every single victory has come by knockout.
Nine fights. Nine knockouts.
For Vietnamese fans, the matchup promises fireworks and perfectly embodies the spirit of the country’s growing boxing movement.
On April 19 in Ho Chi Minh City, the message is clear:
No ducking. No excuses. Just fighting.