Great start of 2022 with double WBA Asia Championship title matches! Charly Suarez and Carl James Martin competes in Super Featherweight and Super Bantamweight respectively.
Elorde Sports Complex
,
March 12, 2022
YES Linn Sandstrom and Arnel Baconaje LOOK LIKE MODELS, but they are actually FIGHTERS !
They will be competing tomorrow in Paranaque at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Weigh in and press conference today.
Omega coach Julius Erving Junco with pride of Cebu and main event fighter Tomjune Mangubat.
The super talented Mangubat is fighting the hottest property in Philippines boxing, the former Olympian and unbeaten pro, Charly Suarez.
So clinical has the King's Warrior been since leaving the amateurs, he is yet to lose a round in 9 fights (6 KO)
Mangubat has built an impressive resume of his own, racking up 15 wins against some quality opponents. Three of his last 4 fights have been wicked and thunderous stoppages!
The clash of these two super fighters promises to be a thriller.
"We are always up for the biggest challenges. We can't wait to perform. Let's go champ! We will rock your show!" enthused a supremely confident and proud Coach Julius.
This will be a fight to tell your grand kids about!
Do not miss it for anything.
Make no mistake, Tomjune Mangubat is perhaps the hottest prospect in the country right now, and at the age of just 24, is already planning the downfall of the best fighter in the Philippines.
JUST WOW !
TOMJUNE MANGUBAT v CHARLY SUAREZ
WBA Asia Super Featherweight title
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
Cagayan de Oro fighter Aisah "D'Striker" Alico has arrived in Manila, and is looking forward to her clash with Australia's Linn Sandstrom this Saturday.
Alico, who has 7 career wins (5KO), hasn't fought since March 2019, but has shared the ring previously with world class opponents. In contrast, Linn Sandstrom with 2 wins, is way less experienced, but has the advantage of being more recently active. The boxer known as "Sandstorm" had a solid victory in Brisbane last Thursday night at the No Limits Boxing show in Australia.
On arrival in Manila, the Mindanao girl said "It's HOT!" and headed straight to the pool for a cool down. Few could blame her, and for sure, expect things to get heated in her match this Saturday.
AISAH ALICO v LINN SANDSTROM
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
GREAT FIGHTERS MAKE GREAT FIGHTS!
Richard Pumicpic ranks as one of the Philippines' best ever boxers, and he will be competing this Saturday at the Flash Grand Ballroom in Paranaque .
If you can get there, don't miss the chance to see "the Beast " doing what he does best! 15 iconic bouts!
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
HONORARY PINAY !
Swedish boxer Linn Sandstrom flanked by boxers and crew at Elorde Southbox in Manila today.
Linn will be fighting in the opening event this Saturday.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque,Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Australia's Linn Sandstrom has touched down in Manila, and headed straight to the Elorde Southbox gym first thing this morning to shake off the jet lag !
Swedish born Sandstrom, who only recently turned pro, scored her second win on Thursday night at the big No Limits Boxing event in Brisbane.
Sandstrom has an unusual back story, having formerly being a high level table tennis player in Sweden, before discovering her true passion for boxing once she arrived in Australia. A relatively late comer to the sport, Linn is on a fast track to learn the game, and her plan is, stay as busy as possible !
Linn Sandstrom will fight CDO girl Aisah Alico in the opening fight at TIGER 2O22 on Saturday. Alico has recorded 7 wins (5 KO), but may have to contend with ring rust having not competed since 2019.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Charly Suarez getting the business done in only his 4th career fight against General Santos City boxer Dave Barlas.
The King's Warrior Suarez lines up for his tenth straight win when he meets Cebu sensation Tomjune Mangubat this coming Saturday.
Suarez (9-0) and Mangubat (15-2) will contest the WBA Asia super featherweight title.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Jino Rodrigo and Remon Basas chillin' and getting a tan now the hard work's been done !
These Olivetti trained boxers have big fights coming at TIGER 2O22 next Saturday.
Jino rematches the highly experienced Roberto Gonzales, and based on their very close first fight, expect fireworks !
Bad Bad Basas is a super strong and improving type, and he takes on a more experienced and skilled Jason Buenaobra. Both these guys did great with a common opponent in Lorenz Ladrada, so their clash should prove one of the more interesting matches of the big 15 fight card.
Find out the latest about ALL your favorite boxers competing at the TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge next Saturday in Paranaque Manila.
https://www.vsppromotions.com//promotions/tiger-2022
One of the Philippines' best ever will be starring in Manila next week alongside a group of outstandingly talented fighters.
If you have never been fortunate enough to see "the Beast" do his thing live and in person, don't miss the opportunity to get to the Flash Elorde ballroom next Saturday.
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:
Ben "the Sniper" Ligas suits up for his Philippines Flyweight title defense next Saturday in Paranaque.
Not only a boxer of high potential, Ligas doubles as a pretty useful model for the latest sports wear from the team at BE ATHLETIC !
The Sniper will defend his belt as one of the main undercard bouts to the huge Charly Suarez v Tomjune Mangubat WBA Asia clash.
TIGER 2O22 will play host to a mammoth 15 killer bouts, and many of the champion fighters will be dressed by BE ATHLETIC !
Lots of thanks to Raoul Navarrete and his hard working team for making these stars look their best.
Ben "the Juicer" Mcculloch was one of the best boxers Australia has ever produced, winning 14 straight and getting to world rank #3 as a super middleweight. His signature was his beautiful balance, distance and rotational power, often producing decapitation style knockouts. And it always looked so effortless!
Arnel Baconaje is as close as we've seen to the Aussie star, and he is a standout as one of the Philippines best and most technical operators. The Iloilo fighter shows really good patience in setting his shots, makes good angles, and dispenses the pain with plenty of high and low variety. His defensive base is solid, and he simply never gives cheap shots away to opponents.
Says McCulloch : "I love this guy, especially when I've seen him work with Suarez and Pumicpic. He has the really nice distance and jab, and has that nice Bernard Hopkins /James Toney roll that I used to love when I fought. But you know what, I can see a lot of Canelo in JUICER2, he really is QUALITY !"
Juicer2, also known as "the Silencer ",will be appearing next week at TIGER 2O22 in Manila. Tune in, and judge for yourself ! He is a special fighter.
ARNEL BACONAJE v LEONARDO DORONIO TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Can the face of violent imposition look so impossibly handsome?
Jonjon Estrada plans to answer that question with an exclamation mark, when he takes on the hugely talented Jess Rhey Waminal, at TIGER 2O22 on Saturday March 12th.
Both fighters sit on 14 wins, both fighters are similarly ranked, but their modus operandi couldn't be any more different, and this makes it compelling viewing.
Mindanao boxer Waminal was a quality amateur, and he shows those beautiful technical touches as a pro.
The Wolverine has gained cult status because of his very neanderthal approach, he stalks his prey with a low and crouching style, and carries knockout power in both hands. He has morphed into one of the most feared boxers in the Philippines, courtesy of his 13 "put your lights out" stoppage victories.
BUT DON'T BE DECEIVED BY THE SMILE !
DOES "VIOLENCE" HAVE A FACE ?
JONJON ESTRADA v JESS RHEY WAMINAL
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The Tigers are out!
Four of the outstanding boxers on show at next week's TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge.
Lorence Rosas, Malfred Majadas, Giovanni Escaner and Jason Buenaobra are four high skilled technicians, all with very differing styles, but all confident they are armed and ready to put on a show in Paranaque.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Australia's Linn Sandstrom made weight easily for tomorrow night's clash in Brisbane against Ali Jensen.
The boxer known as "Sandstorm" has a busy schedule ahead, appearing again at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday March 12th.
Linn takes on CDO girl Aisah Alico, a winner of 7 fights, but she is resuming from a two year break from the sport.
This will no doubt be a challenging bout for both girls, and it will be great to finally see women's boxing making a welcome return to Manila.
LINN SANDSTROM v AISAH ALICO
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The King's Warrior, when asked today how he is feeling leading up to his mega fight with Tomjune Mangubat for the WBA Asia title on Saturday March 12th :
"Happy Happy Great training result and a positive outcome. I can't wait !"
A picture speaks a THOUSAND words !!
One of the Philippines' best ever comes out to play at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge on Saturday March 12th.
Richard "the Beast " Pumicpic has fought some of the world's best boxers in recent years, and he also has a victory over Philippines #1 Joe Noynay on his very impressive resume.
The ever popular boxer is matched with tall timber Pablito Canada over 6 rounds, and this should prove to be a great opportunity to see the Beast ply his trade once more!
RICHARD PUMICPIC v PABLITO CANADA
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Charly Suarez took on the unbeaten Justin Cabarles in his second professional bout. Cabarles was a tall unbeaten orthodox with lots of skills and potential.
In his previous fight, Cabarles won against another unbeaten prospect by the name of Jhunrick Carcedo. The merit of that Cabarles victory was obvious, as Carcedo won his subsequent four fights by KO, and is now the #2 ranked super lightweight in the Philippines.
Enjoy the round two action of Suarez in his second pro fight, against a very game Justin Cabarles.
Suarez is now 9 and 0 as a professional, and fights Tomjune Mangubat for the WBA Asia title in Paranaque on Saturday March 12th.
Jino "the Silent Beast " Rodrigo brooding, even with a subdued and menacing visage - this is the quiet time, akin to the calm before the storm.
But be sure, the Beast will soon be unleashed from within, the Wild Man will unveil in Paranaque on March 12th!
JINO RODRIGO v ROBERTO GONZALES TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Philippines national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas will be defending his title at TIGER 2O22 this March.
And if he doesn't win, who really cares, because he will be
WALKING TALL, LOOKING GOOD ! in this great design from the hard working team at
BE ATHLETIC.
Thanks to Raoul Navarrete and Be Athletic for supporting Philippines sports and Boxing.
Remember if you wanna look like a champ, Be Athletic will take care of you!
The boxers competing at TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge not only are super talented, they really look the part!
This is because of the cool and creative efforts of Raoul Navarrete and his team at Be Athletic, who look after not only the best athletes in the Philippines and abroad, they make these designs available to the fan market also.
Charly Suarez is out to make a statement on March 12th that he is the Philippines #1 fighter in any division, and he says he loves the Be Athletic gear.
We will show you the designs that some of the boxers have had customized in the coming days - they are amazing !
Even visiting boxer Linn Sandstrom (Australia ) was so impressed, she has had her outfit made by Be Athletic.
So get with the program, if you wanna BE ATHLETIC, (and look great) contact them for all your fight and Activewear needs.
Thanks Raoul Navarrete and Be Athletic !
Two weeks out and the Philippines national Flyweight champ Ben Ligas is raring to go!"The Sniper" has trained well in preparation for his title defense, and in spite of losing two challengers along the way, has a battle on his hands with the very resilient Roland Jay Biendima.BEN LIGAS v ROLAND JAY BIENDIMARP Flyweight titleTIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, ManilaSaturday March 12thWATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Albert “the Ageless” Alcoy has earned the reputation as a journeyman in the true essence of the word, and makes his way to TIGER 2022 to take on the outstanding Giovanni Escaner.Whilst Escaner is resuming from a hiatus dating back to 2019, the experienced Alcoy managed to get a bout in October 2021, where he lost on points to the high level Jonathon Taconing. The 38 year old Alcoy has an array of top names on his reume, and his previous win was a decisive knockout victory over the cunning southpaw Danny Tampipi, who also appears on this fight card. This orthodox fighter has competed consistently for over 16 years, and is still going strong!! Alcoy, who is now based in Makati City, and has spent recent years both competing and training others in boxing and mixed combat. And true to his “no task too big” edict, we will see “the Ageless” return to his love for the sport of boxing when he meets Giovanni Escaner on March 12th.ALBERT ALCOY v GIOVANNI ESCANERTIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout ChallengeParanaque, Manila Saturday March 12thWATCH IT LIVE AT:https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The King's Warrior Charly Suarez has heard all the talk, and he just smiles, and says it will soon be time to walk the walk!
Suarez has been told of the noise coming out of Cebu - that he is better suited to the amateurs, that he doesn't have the power to be a top class pro, that he will be on his bike against Mangubat, and that he won't last 12 rounds, blah blah blah.
Omega Cebu team is supremely confident to take Suarez into very deep waters and drown him, to which the champion replies :
"Yes the deep waters can be dangerous, so please Mangubat team, make sure you are good swimmers! The WBA belt is mine, but if you want it, sure, come swimming in the dark waters and take it from me bro!"
And yes, as usual, Charly says it all with a smile!
CHARLY SUAREZ v TOMJUNE MANGUBAT WBA ASIA TITLE
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque ,Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
The “Little Giant” makes his long awaited return at TIGER 2022, matching up with the experienced veteran Albert Alcoy. The bout marks a ring absence of more than 2.5 years for the locally based star, when he defeated the outstanding Renoel Pael in a thriller.
The win over Pael, a winner of 23 fights, highlighted the level that Escaner had worked to in his professional career. It also put him back on the winners’ list, after a previous loss to top American Joshua Greer ended in a dramatic stoppage loss. That blip punctuated a 10 match winning streak for the “Little Giant”.
The fight between top US prospect Joshua Greer and Giovanni Escaner must surely have been one of the most THRILLING in 2019. Greer appeared to be sailing towards a world title. With only one loss on his resume, to the unbeaten Stephen Fulton, Greer was expected to make a statement in the Escaner fight. But things didn’t go to plan for the high flying American. Escaner dropped Greer in the third round, and it really looked as if he was going to be finished off by the Little Giant. To his credit, Greer regained his senses, and in a to and fro round, managed to stop Escaner in round 8. The action was frenetic, and it seemed obvious that the Philippines fighter perhaps only got caught in his effort to drop the American for a second time. To illustrate the closeness of the bout, the judges had scores of 67-66 and 67-65 when the referee called a halt.
Giovanni Escaner has been sparring in Manila in preparation for March 12th, and if the rumours are correct, he will show no signs of ring rust upon his return. He has been working with quality opponents, including Carl Jammes Martin, who can confidently testify to the fact “The Little Giant is back!!!”
They say Suarez is "running" on old legs!
Tomjune Mangubat is prepared to take the former amateur star 12 rounds if he has to, but confidently predicts :
THIS FIGHT WILL NOT GO THE DISTANCE !
TOMJUNE MANGUBAT v CHARLY SUAREZ
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
WBA ASIA TITLE
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Outstanding young prospects Tomjune Mangubat and Carlo Bacaro are promising to storm the fortress of Manila and take home all the spoils of victory. They say by the time they are done - there will be nothing left, especially for SEA Games hero Charly "King's Warrior " Suarez !
The Cebu based pair are trained at Omega Gym, and are under the expert tutelage of head coach Julius Erving Junco. Word on the street is that they have been training the house down, and are confident to make headlines at TIGER 2O22 next month in Paranaque.
Tomjune Mangubat has not only an imposing physique, he boasts a resume to match!.
He takes on the Philippines' best boxer Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title, and the mood in camp is that the former Olympian's reputation will count for nothing once the opening bell sounds. The Omega team are on track for a devastating victory, feeling Suarez lacks the power and legs to go to war for 12 rounds. They also are strongly committed to chasing the knockout if the former amateur champ shows any sign of weakness. And with three imposing stoppages in his most recent bouts, the confidence of Team Mangubat looks well founded.
Carlo Bacaro is definitely one of the hottest prospects in the country, and all eyes will be on this unbeaten young star when he takes on the ultra experienced Jimmy Borbon.
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion
Perhaps the most intriguing of the early bouts at TIGER 2022, is the matchup between Jonathon Almacen and the long absent John Paul Bentoso. The bout takes place at junior flyweight, and whilst it poses many unknowns, none is more baffling than "where the hell has John Paul Bentoso been since 2017?? "
Well, it appears that he has now been found, and Jonathon Almacen will be probing for answers!
Jonathon Almacen is an excellent young prospect, born and bred in Manila. This 22 year old orthodox debuted in 2016, where he had an unfortunate technical draw with an excellent emerging boxer named Enrique Magsalin. The trend for quality opponents was repeated, and the improving Alamcen won his next four fights before narrow losses to unbeaten pinoys Jayson Vayson and ArAr Andales. In spite of the losses, Almacen was showing lots of upside, and he quickly regrouped to win the WBC silver title in China over the highly rated Xiang Le. This popular boxer was doing it in style, and earned the moniker “Pretty Boy” (or maybe it was his looks????) His most recent win in 2019 was perhaps his best so far, when he literally shutout Roldan Sasan, a boxer that had only been previously beaten once in 10 fights.
“Pretty Boy” Almacen resumes as a very young fighter on the up and up. This boxer has already amassed 7 wins, he has fast hands, good skills, and shows plenty of variety in his opening attacks. He has been sparring quality partners in preparation for TIGER 2022, so it’s accurate to say that he is a “known” quantity.
But what of his opponent John Paul Bentoso, and how do we make any prediction on this bout????
John Paul Bentoso has been on the missing persons list since 2017!
“The Ghost” Bentoso showed huge potential from the time he was a kid. A regular fixture at national youth championships, Bentoso routinely figured in the medals. In 2014, he won the national championship, defeating the outstanding boxer Robert Paradero, who has subsequently racked up 18 wins as a professional. In 2016, Bentoso was ousted in the semi finals by the barest of margins, falling to a split decision at the hands of another future star named Carlo Paalam.
So “the Ghost” turns pro in 2017, and he looks born to the game! The fast handed southpaw fighter wins 3 bouts in quick succession, all of them by lethal stoppage. His most recent outing was in September of 2017, where he was responsible for a violent beat down of Bonjun Loperez, a far more experienced pro boasting 10 wins. The experience counted for zilch, and it was all over in round two.
And that was it, John Paul Bentos disappeared off the face of the planet, thus becoming “the Ghost”, but in no way diminishing his reputation or aura.
The great news is that Bentoso is back, yet none of us are any the wiser as to what version we will see on March 12th against Jonathon Almacen, who no doubt, will get to the bottom of that mystery!
JONATHON ALMACEN v JOHN PAUL BENTOSO
TIGER 2022 Ultimate Knockout Challenge
Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Arnel Baconaje and team working out this morning at Elorde Southbox, in preparation for TIGER 2O22 coming to Manila on Saturday March 12th.
Be ready!
Doesn't get any bigger locally than this!
Philippines best versus Philippines best up and coming - three times SEA Games gold medal winner Charly Suarez takes on the giant killing Tomjune Mangubat of Omega Cebu.
CHARLY SUAREZ v TOMJUNE MANGUBAT WBA ASIA TITLE
TIGER 2O22 Ultimate Knockout Challenge Paranaque, Manila
Saturday March 12th
WATCH IT LIVE AT: https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotion/
Eddie Alcoba jr Wins by KO
Romeo Tenorio Wins by UD
"The Ferocious" Carlo Magali looking absolutely shredded at the BATTLEFIELD weigh in just moments ago.
National champion Magali takes on the unbeaten freak talent King's Warrior Charly Suarez in a bout which will decide both RP and WBA Asia titles.
Both fighters weighed in within the Super Featherweight limit at 129 pounds.
Action takes place tomorrow at the Elorde Sports Centre in Parañaque.
The Philippines’ Charly Suarez will headline a huge card in Manila this Sunday, when he defends his regional WBA belt agsinst national champion Carlo Magali.
Suarez is without peer in Philippines boxing right now, and arguably sits with Naoya Inoue as the most technically gifted fighter in all of Asia,
The Davao native sits unbeaten at 12 and 0, and such has been his dominance against quality local opposition, he has scored 7 knockouts so far in his pro career.
Carlo Magali will be another solid test for Suarez. A winner of 25 fights, Magali has a very awkward and resilient style that has upset more heavily favoured opponents. Blessed with a great chin and thudding power, the man that has earned the ring name “The Ferocious” is regarded as a killer in his homeland, and in the literal sense.
National champion Magali had an historic battle with Australia’s top 130 Davey Browne a few years back, and such was the bludgeoning that Magali delivered, the unbeaten Aussie lost his life as a result of his injuries.
Carlo Magali comes into Sunday’s match in career best condition, as reported by his camp, so it will be interesting to see if he can subdue the freakish Suarez in any way.
Charly Suarez will be looking to put on another electric display in Sunday’s WBA title defense, and is eyeing off bigger bouts in future. News just broken is that he will head to HO Tram Vietnam on December 10 and look to win the IBF belt, against a soon to be named opponent. The unbeaten boxer will be focussed on world top 10 fights in 2023, and with wins over world champs Oscar Valdez and Joe Cordina in the amateurs, he has every reason to have claims to the throne now that Shakur Stevenson has departed.
“I will fight anyone, anywhere !” beamed the ever smiling Suarez.
BATTLEFIELD: SUAREZ V MAGALI
How to watch:
VSP Promotions Facebook https://www.facebook.com/VSPPromotions
What time?
US East Coast 6am
US West Coast 3am
UK 11am
Vietnam 5pm
Philippines 6pm
Australia and PNG 9pm
Papua New Guinea's boxing star Junior Kauko Raka touched down in Manila late last night, but the Prodigy Team are already in the Elorde Gym early this morning.
Junior Kauko Raka went through a light workout, ably assisted by trainers Nelson John and Ephraim Montoru.
Despite the fact that the harder preparation has already been done, Raka will work in the gym this week to ensure he is on track for Saturdays weigh in.
Raka will compete in the 59kg Super Featherweight class (130lb) against Philippines international star Mark John Yap.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka ready and waiting to embark on his Philippines adventure at Port Moresby Airport. Raka will take on one of the Philippines greatest - Mark John "The Journeyman" Yap in what is guaranteed to be no place for the faint hearted.
Yap is the winner of 30 bouts, and tore some of Japan's best fighters to shreds in accumulating three OPBF championship belts. In contrast, Junior Kauko Raka has 2 pro wins, yet has as many as 7 knockout wins in "unofficial" contests.
This potential match up is already shaping as a red hot bonfire NOBODY IN THE PHILIPPINES WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP!
But Junior Raka jumped at the chance to fight him "GIVE YAP TO ME!" Great stuff! So excited to see these two greats!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila, Sunday October 23rd
BE THERE, OR WATCH IT LIVE !
The great man Martin Beni put Papua New Guinea's boxing on the map back in the 1970's when he was successful against many of Australia's best fighters. Beni went on to beat an Australian and Commonwealth Lightweight champion, and at his peak, was rated in the top 30 fighters in the world at that weight.
On Sunday October 23rd, Junior Kauko Raka continues the PNG proud tradition of love of sports and boxing, when he takes on a formidable task in the shape of Mark John Yap. The Journeyman is one of the Philippines best, with 30 professional wins and 3 OPBF titles on his resume.
Says Raka on the topic of national hero Martin Beni:
"Martin lived his life around the boxing ring and while it was shocking and sad to see him pass in front of us; he was someone that remained true to the sport all the way to his last day.
When I joined boxing, I would always hear stories of Martin Beni and how he fought some of the best fighters in Australia and I’m so honoured to have met and worked alongside him.
I grew as a boxer with Martin ever since I started as an amateur in 2009.
There was a lot of struggle with boxing when I joined but despite all the politics and issues with who was in charge of the sport, he always remained true to the sport.
Before I turned professional, he would come around for some of my fights and talk to me and give me advice on what I was doing wrong.
One thing that I would always remember him by was his belief in me.
I made him a promise that I would win an internationally recognised title. I came close to fulfilling that promise but it wasn’t to be. I will keep pursuing that promise with the time I have left in my career."
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Be there or watch it here live !
Great to see Papua New Guinea embracing boxing and recognising the achievements of athletes like Junior Kauko Raka.
Big thanks to the Pang family and Northern Property Valuers for assisting the PNG PRODIGY Junior Raka on his journey to the Philippines, and his big fight with Pinoy star Mark John Yap.
Manila Lightweight DEADLY Daffy Dempo is back in action next Sunday with a highly anticipated bout with fellow Manila boxer Jonniel Laurente.
This will be the first match for the popular boxer since 2019, when Dempo comprehensively outscored Danny Manosa. Prior to that, DEADLY was involved in a drawn bout with the wild man Jino Rodrigo, who also appears on this card.
Daffy Dempo v Jonniel Laurente
8 rounds Lightweight 132lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday October 23rd
Palawan boxer Jahzeel Trinidad aims to keep his unbeaten record (6 wins) intact when he tackles JC Francisco (8 wins) next week.
This will be his toughest test so far, but this high energy boxer known as "Lion Hearted" has all the right tools to make it a thriller with the more experienced Francisco.
Jahzeel Trinidad v JC Francisco
8 rounds Flyweight 112lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Nguyễn Văn Duong and Brazil's outstanding Esquiva Falcao are just two of the big names taking part in the "friendly" at Cocky Buffalo gym in Ho Chi Minh City today.
Falcao was a silver medallist winner at the 2012 Olympics, and has since gone on an unbeaten 30 fight winning streak as a pro. The world #14 will spar Vietnam Lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan as part of today's exhibition.
DInh Hong Quan, Nguyễn Văn Duong, Vu Thanh Dat and many others joining Brazilian champ Esquiva Falcao in a friendly sparring day today at Cocky Buffalo gym in District 7 HCMC today.
Papua New Guinea's Junior Kauko Raka offers to go toe to toe with Cagayan de Oro's outstanding boxer Mark John Yap.
Junior Kauko Raka v Mark John Yap
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Expect things to get crazy !
Ali Cañega v Jerwin Mejes
8 rounds Super Lightweight 140lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mr. Heart Throb is BACK, and he is aiming to leave a long trail broken hearts, starting this October 23rd!!
Claudevan Sese v Albert Alcoy
6 rounds Super Bantamweight 122lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap v Junior Kauko Raka
8 rounds Super Featherweight 130lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
COUNTDOWN for Suarez v Magali
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's hard man Junior Kauko Raka responded to recent suggestions that Mark John Yap would put an exclamation mark on their clash by going for the knockout. Whilst Yap, and perhaps the whole of the Philippines, know what potential dangers the PNG Prodigy brings to the ring, they are also aware that the safest plan is to get him out of there as soon as possible.
The scheduled 8 round fight will take place in just over two weeks from now, and Raka had this to say:
"Knockout ? Well let's see!
We won't be running like ring girls, and I'm ready to fight toe to toe, so he won't have to go looking for me. We will see who stays standing!"
Spoken in true Warrior spirit!
PNG's Raka has experienced only one loss in 10 bouts, a points decision at the hands of top flight pinoy Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match. The powerful Port Moresby boxer has scored 7 knockouts along a path of destruction, and notably, is yet to be dropped.
This will be a compelling match up, with "The Journeyman" Mark John Yap starting a warm favourite, but likely to experience a torrid time with his PNG foe.
D'HAMMER HAS BLUE SKYS IN HIS SIGHTS
RoyRoy Sumugat v Ivor Lastrilla
8 rounds Lightweight 135lb
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
The Journeyman Mark John Yap is in training in Manila, and has promised to be at his destructive best this month when he contests the main undercard match prior to the giant Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali clash.
Yap is slated to fight Papua New Guinea's premier boxer Junior Kauko Raka, and is philosophical, despite suffering 4 losses on the trot. But the defeats need to be examined more closely and put in perspective !
Three of these losses were at the hands of top class unbeaten foreign opponents, where matching was done at the very last moment to ensure making weight would prove extremely difficult. Nonetheless, Yap produced really good touches in each of these bouts, and actually dropped the unbeaten Cuban Jadier Hererra whilst incurring a points loss.
Mark John Yap prepared in the altitude of Baguio prior to his August stoush with Charly Suarez, and the hard work showed. It was an impressive performance by the Journeyman, and it is really doubtful that any local other than the freakish Suarez could have repelled him that day.
Yap did his early preparation in Cagayan de Oro for his date with Raka, and is now in Manila being mentored by Elorde's Jetro Pabustan. He has a pragmatic view on his impending battle:
“If I’ll have the opportunity to knock him out, then I’ll knock him out,” said Yap.
“If he’s tough, then I’ll try to do my best and dominate him.”
If he's tough ? Well, one thing we know about the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka is that he's carved from granite, and has skills, so this should be a thriller !
And for the Journeyman, you just know that this international star will produce something special this month and even more, the best is yet to come !
Mark John Yap v Junior Raka (PNG)
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
This great pic was from the Reboot show way back in February 2021, and it was a major accomplishment by Mam Cucuy Elorde to pull it off!
Charly Suarez had been inactive (as were all local pinoy fighters) and the pandemic was proving to be a terrible time for many boxers who could not return home, and even worse, having a daily battle to feed themselves and their families.
VSP asked Mam Cucuy if it was possible to create a show so that Charly Suarez could resume his career. Despite all odds, she put together a great card that also unearthed another big talent - the Wolverine JonJon Estrada!
The event was aptly named Reboot "New Beginning" ,and even though there were only 5 bouts, and the boxers had to endure a "quarantine bubble", it was a lot of fun and marked the start of boxing again in the Philippines.
Boxers that starred at THE BEGINNING :
The Wolverine JonJon Estrada
King's Warrior Charly Suarez
Cerberus Lorenz Ladrada
Remon "Bad Bad" Basas
Ali "Carnage" Cañega
Apocalypse Glenn Bismanos
The Sniper Ben Ligas
The Bull Alphoe Dagayloan
The Prince Andrew Laurio
Ranny "the Cleaner" Quizo
Clarence Breboneria and Mark John Yap finish their working day with more rounds in the bank.
Breboneria had a battle with Dengue fever earlier this year, but is now back to full health, and is aiming to be at his energetic best for his upcoming bout.
The Journeyman Mark John Yap will be appearing at the BATTLEFIELD this month in an absolute belter of a match up with PNG’s Junior Raka.
Yap has ventured from CDO to Manila to have the final touches put on his preparation by coach Jetro Pabustan.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Charly Suarez knows full well the reputation of Carlo Magali, and is aware that "the Ferocious" will throw everything at him in order to retain the national title - including the kitchen sink!
The King's Warrior is a big fan of Magali but assures, if it turns into a dog fight, he equally knows how to get down and dirty.
" Team Suarez like to box smart, and we know Carlo has the power. But we are also willing to meet FIRE with FIRE !
We are carrying bombs, and we will use them if we have to" warned the "King's Warrior".
Charly Suarez v Carlo Magali
RP National title WBA Asia title
12 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
The relentless punching machine that is Remon Basas returns this month, and matches up with rangy young southpaw Jestine Ace Tesoro.
The bout will signal a move to the heavier weight classes for Basas, but without doubt, Olivetti Gym will have him well prepared for the task. The 24 year old fighter is still very much on the improvement path, but has already racked up 6 wins, and has experienced good opponents like Delmar Pellio, Lorenz Ladrada and Franco Serafica.
The great thing that has characterized all his performances is that he always brings the heat! This kid is relentlessly working in the ring, and has a low looping style that sets up really effective body punches.
Jestine Ace Tesoro is a really promising type. He had good moments against JonJon Estrada, outgunned a very savvy Lorence Rosas, and then was narrowly beaten in Japan. But for Remon Basas, Tesoro is just another guy across the ring, and he will be bringing a bucket load of BAD BAD intentions to the party !
Remon Basas v Jestine Ace Tesoro
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Mark John Yap takes on the might of Papuan hard man Junior Raka later this month in Paranaque Manila .
Yap is one of the Philippines' best internationally credentialed boxers in recent years, having amassed 30 wins and three OPBF titles on the road in Japan.
But he is experienced enough to know that you can never underestimate an opponent, and in Junior Raka, you have a nemesis with skills and a warrior heart to match.
"Raka already has a history with Pinoy boxers. He has had two big wins, and then a narrow loss to Roldan Aldea for the WBA belt, and we have a big opinion of Aldea here in the Philippines.
We know that Junior Raka will bring energy and aggression, and a love for the battle. We respect that, because we love it too! So bring it on, and we welcome you to the Philippines Mr. Raka ! "
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Don't miss this iconic main event at the BATTLEFIELD show this October.
Charly Suarez is the former amateur champ and has looked flawless in his pro career so far. He has a singular intent to work to a world title opportunity.
Carlo Magali has been one of the most under estimated yet effective pinoy warriors in recent years. Known as "The Ferocious", and for good reason, he has a history of dismantling more favored fighters.
Who will get bragging rights ?
Come to the BATTLEFIELD and claim your piece of history !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
JonJon Estrada and Yushi Fujita make weight in Osaka Japan earlier today.
Fujita is a tall and rangy fighter with 9 wins, and like most of his countrymen, is strong and durable.
But Estrada carries the Equalizer, that being the sleeping pills he confidently holds in both hands, and owning a long history of violence, having "slept" 14 opponents in his 15 wins !
This is a great match up because Fujita likes to trade, and this may play directly into the sharpened claws of the man known as THE WOLVERINE !
Palawan sharp shooter Erson "the trigger" Trinidad is set to bring his all action style to Parañaque this October when he joins the BATTLEFIELD !
The promising youngster returned from a near 3 year hiatus in August, accounting for a very good fighter named Arjay Recopelacion. Whilst there were plenty of good touches from both boxers, the Puerto Princessa native gave the impression there is a lot more up his sleeve with his majority decision win.
The victory by Trinidad was his 4th as a professional, and based on the blazing hand speed he showed, expect him to come to the BATTLEFIELD all guns loaded and ready to PULL THE TRIGGER !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Kayne "Superman" Clarke and Roldan "the Cobra" Aldea.
Sublime speed meets southpaw stealth and wizardry!
Papuan pugilist Junior Raka is putting in the hard work and looking forward to an October 23 rendezvous with hot pinoy Mark John Yap.
The Cagayan de Oro boxer arrived in Manila last night, and will complete his training with elite sparring in coming weeks.
The match will be PNG Prodigy Raka's first since the pandemic, but he has the mindset to over ride all obstacles and bring a strong performance to the BATTLEFIELD event.
Raka welcomed his opponent: "Good morning to Mark John Yap. I look forward to joining you in Manila. I know we will give all the boxing fans in the Philippines and PNG a great match. Boxing is my life so I thank you and the people of Philippines for the opportunity !"
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
