Grand Ballroom Elorde Sports Center
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January 30, 2023
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Top class international campaigner Mark John Yap has arrived in Manila, and his first stop, after Jollibee, was to meet up with old friends at Elorde Gym in Parañaque.
Yap was joined by sharpshooters Ronnie Baldonado and Jetro Pabustan in a gym session yesterday afternoon.
The three bisaya talking bad boys will be starring at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 at the end if this month.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
CHARLY SUAREZ FIGHT ANNOUNCEMENT
Watch this space - big news breaking later today.
This is HUGE !!!!!!!
Exciting news is that of the very late inclusion of super bantam prospect Claudevan Sese.
The fighter dubbed Mr. Heart Throb was called in to replace the classy Giovanni Escaner, who unfortunately withdrew with injury.
Despite the very short time to prepare, Claudevan was quick to seize the opportunity, and will face Batangas pug Rodel Sunquit.
Sese was one of a team of five Philippines fighters that made waves in Vietnam in late 2019 before the pandemic struck. That squad included Charly Suarez, Jenel Lausa, Virgel Vitor and Gretel De Paz, and Claudevan Sese was responsible for putting on one of the most exciting performances of the night. This promotional footage was taken just days prior to his Vietnam bout.
The closest thing Manila has to a modern day super hero is right now on a blood lust, and he is counting the days for his ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 at the end of this month.
The Wolverine is back, and is already in what appears to be menacing shape, all set to face a previous and very determined foe - Pablito Canada.
Canada pulled off an outstanding knockout performance last start against the unbeaten Michael Casama, and is confident about repeating the dose with JonJon Estrada. The tall and rangy fighter considered himself unlucky when he previously tackled the Wolverine, and has been desperate to make amends ever since.
JonJon Estrada remains unimpressed by the rejuvenated Pablito Canada.
"I have trained hard to make it a great fight, and I will be doing my very best to win."
It could be argued that Canada was the victim of the wrong game plan when these two featherweights met previously.
In what was likely the "fight of the year", Pablito Canada decided to go toe to toe rather than box with the shorter Estrada. This proved to be his undoing, despite the fact that he undoubtedly has power, as he emphasized with the Casama stoppage.
So are we likely to see another trench warfare between Estrada and Canada ?
"I will come forward because that is my style. I love to bang, and if Pablito wants to also, it's perfect with me !
I promise to make the match exciting for the fans, and I love to make the big knockouts. Everyone will see the Wolverine in the ring very soon. I'm ready to hunt and kill!" offered the quietly spoken, but brooding JonJon Estrada.
Hard to imagine this one going the distance - Pablito Canada and JonJon Estrada are both predicting KNOCKOUT.
Don't miss this one, its possibly the bout of the day.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Was it ever in doubt ?
YAP IS BACK !
Mark John Yap makes his eagerly awaited ring return at UKC REVOLUTION 2023 against former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner Leonardo Doronio.
Yap has the reputation as one of the Philippines' best internationally performed boxers of recent years, thus earning him The Journey Man tag, and he will be looking to embark his 2023 trip with a great performance at home.
The former bantamweight star has only recently made the super featherweight division his new home, yet will challenge Doronio at Lightweight, such is the difficulty in getting the Mindanao product decent competition in a season opener.
Mark John Yap produced a classy performance against Charly Suarez for the WBA Asia title, and endorsed that effort with an impressive win over Papua New Guinea's best Junior Kauko Raka.
Yap then ventured to Vietnam to compete at Fortunes of War, and looked good in a fast paced short format exhibition event.
Leonardo Doronio is a very experienced boxer, who will hold the advantage of being the slightly larger man. He posted good wins over Bryan Macamay and Jimmy Borbon, before a points loss to outstanding pinoy Arnel Baconaje. He will prove to be a great measure of where Mark John Yap is early in his 2023 adventure.
But the word is out - Yap is back !
January 30th marks the start of a new journey.
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
UKC REVOLUTION 2023 FULL FIGHT CARD
The last time JonJon Estrada met Pablito Canada, the short and violent exchange laid claims to being the most exciting fight of the year.
The Wolverine was at his bombastic best, dropping the rugged Canada three times in the opening round. Pablito did an amazing job to survive to the bell !
Round two started in similar fashion, with a beserk Wolverine trying to put his taller opponent to the sword. But then the tide turned.
Pablito Canada landed a killer shot wobbling Estrada, and in the blink of the eye, he had the aggressor wearing wobbly boots. Canada looked like stealing a victory from the jaws of defeat.
But then !
Estrada lands a supernatural body shot out of desperation, putting Canada down, and ending the seesawing exchange.
Canada was philosophical after the match, knowing how close he was to victory, and expressed his wish to do it all over one more time. He was sure if he had changed his tactics, the result could have been very different.
Pablito Canada recently ventured to Mindanao to take on the outstanding and unbeaten 8 and 0 Michael Casama. Redemption ? You bet !
The vengeful Canada knocked out his opponent in the 6th round, and immediately turned his attention to Manila.
"I want JonJon Estrada!"
Well Pablito, you have got your wish !
Expect Estrada v Canada #2 to be an epic!
UKC REVOLUTION 2023
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Plenty of good young prospects will be on show at REVOLUTION this month, and if you are looking for great fight action, you need go no further than Laurejas v Gajana.
These two unbeaten Lightweights had impressive starts to their careers last year, and are looking to carry on the good work on January 30th.
Donald Laurejas was a quality amateur before going pro late last year, scoring two tradesman like wins.
This 20 year old orthodox boxer is tall, and at 5 feet 10, he is learning to apply his range more effectively. The Elorde product with the ring name "Tough Guy" showed good patience in his first two wins, and based on the quality of his training partners, it's likely that Laurejas will show big improvement in his upcoming clash.
Jonathan Gajana at only 19 years of age still has the training wheels on, but has a ton of ability.
The Manila based orthodox debuted with a very stop start win against Eric Tolosa, but returned to the ring in August looking a different fighter. It was a much more dominant display from the opening bell, chopping up debutant Iresh Alejandre in the first round. It was only a glimpse of the boy known as Tan-Tan, but wow, he did look good !
Plenty of debate on who takes this one, as both these Lightweights have so much upside, and it will really be interesting to see if Gajana can storm the defensive fortress of Laurejas.
UKC 2023 REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Gotta love this match up !
This is the main event at UKC REVOLUTION.
Ronnie "Jong Jong" Baldonado is bringing those magical hands to Manila for a fire fight with Sanman's Ben Mananquil.
Mananquil aka The Nightmare has looked great in two outings since the pandemic, with a 4th round stoppage win over Crison Omayao, before losing to unbeaten South African star Phumelele Cafu, who was rated #11 in the world. The Nightmare did some good work early in that match, but it's fair to say that he was stylistically unsuited to his fellow southpaw opponent, and he is likely to have the ideal dance partner in Baldonado.
And this kid Baldonado, well he just brings it !
He's got great hands, lots of firepower, and you just know he has the love of putting opponents on the canvas.
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
GREAT FIGHT.
Jetro "the Silent Operator" Pabustan is looking sharp and ready to start the new year with a "BANG BANG" this month in Manila.
Jetro, a former regional belt holder and WBO world title contender, is working overtime and looking towards bigger opportunities in 2023.
"I know I can be a champion again, and I would love to get the chance to fight for a world strap once more.
I truly believe I am a better and stronger boxer than I was before. In 2O23, if any good offer comes I will be ready!"
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Parañaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Cagayan de Oro and the hills of Bukidnon are fabled for producing some of the best fighters ever seen in the Philippines.
Mark John Yap has been an outstanding international performer in recent years, most particularly in the tough playgrounds of Japan where he won 8 on end and picked up three regional belts.
The CDO prodigy has been working hard over the new year (pictured here with another top boxer and CDO boy Joseph Ambo) in preparation for the UKC REVOLUTION event at the end of this month.
Yap put on an exemplary display to beat Papua New Guinea's best Junior Raka, before starring in an exhibition series in Vietnam in December. Lack of fight opportunities during COVID conspired against the Mindanao boxer, but it is rumoured that he is already in great shape for his first hit out for 2023.
And a word of advice for any upcoming opponents of Mark John Yap - this dog is a different breed, and the bite is way worse than the bark !
Yap Yap Snap Snap
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Monday January 30th
Fighters are jumping from the rooftops to join the biggest and best fight show to launch the new year - UKC REVOLUTION in Parañaque on Monday January 30th.
The Elorde team already have a super strong line up that are planning on being there.
Check out these killers, from right to left:
Giovanni Escaner, Ronnie Baldonado, Ali Canega, Donald Laurejas,
Clarence, Breboneria, Jetro Pabustan, Baby Boy Almacen, Jason Buenaobra, Malfred Majadas, Roberto Gonzales
THAT'S A MILLION DOLLARS WORTH OF TALENT RIGHT THERE !
Best of luck boys ! Happy New Year !
Full fight card coming soon.
The “Little Giant” Giovanni Escaner made his long awaited return in March of last year, matched up with the experienced veteran Albert Alcoy. The bout marked a ring absence of more than 2.5 years for the locally based star, but he never missed a beat, and won with a dominant round two stoppage. The win was his first since he defeated the outstanding Renoel Pael in a thriller back in 2019.
The win over Pael, a winner of 23 fights, highlighted the level that Escaner had to 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 dramatic 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 his appearance at REVOLUTION on January30th, and if the rumours are correct, the Little Giant is back bigger, badder, and better than ever!!!”
UKC REVOLUTION
Sunday January 30th
Elorde Sports Complex Parañaque Manila
Full fight card coming soon.
The REVOLUTION has certainly gained momentum, with many of the Philippines' best looking to compete at the season opener.
Clarence Breboneria, Jetro Pabustan and Ronnie Baldonado are three of the confirmed starters, and based on today's picture, look well on track for fan pleasing performances later this month.
UKC REVOLUTION
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila
Sunday January 30th
The REVOLUTION is officially in full swing, with news that ace bantamweight Ronnie Baldonado will be joining the card on January 30th.
The Mindanao boxer known as JongJong is one of the most exciting strikers in the Philippines, yet has been in relatve obscurity since 2019 due to inactivity.
It's almost ironic that he finally returned in 2022 to two losses, but the merit in the performances provides insight that 2023 will showcase the best version of Baldonado yet seen !
Ronnie Baldonado returned after a 3 year break, jumped weight classes, and took on one of the Philippines most promising fighters Carl Jammes Martin. It's fair to say that JongJong dominated the early stages of that match, even putting Wonder Boy on his butt, before tiring late in the contest. It was a fantastic comeback performance by Baldonado, and was followed up by a points loss in Japan to hot prospect Sho Ishida, a winner of 31 bouts.
2023 provides a fresh start for Baldonado, who at only 26, and having experienced a 3 years break from the sport, is an improving young fighter that is extremely compelling to watch.
So expect to see Ronnie Baldonado turn up on January 30th with all guns blazing !
More updates on the REVOLUTION fight card coming soon.
Jetro Pabustan is the latest to lend his consummate fight talents to the Revolution event in Manila this January 30.
The high level Mindanao southpaw is eyeing off international challenges this year, and is well qualified to do so. A winner of 31 bouts, the Silent Operator has the distinction of being a regional belt winner and also WBO world title contender. Pabustan had two foreign assignments last year, and performed admirably in both.
In August, he dropped a highly debated points decision in the States to the top level Tramaine Williams, in a match where he appeared to outwork and outland the American.
More recently, Pabustan competed in an exhibition bout in Vietnam against cult fugure Le Hoang Hiep, and in a really entertaining contest, he looked good in the unfamiliar four round format.
Jetro Pabustan was last seen in Manila winning against top prospect Brian Tamayo, and it will be great to see him kick off his 2O23 campaign on the classy Revolution card on January 30th.
REVOLUTION full fight card announcement coming soon.
January 30 locked in.
And so is one of the Philippines' most chaotic fighters of all time - the man who wrote the book
"DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES"
Yes it's THE WOLVERINE JonJon Estrada
Full fight card coming soon.
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
Junior Raka v Mark John Yap
Main Undercard
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Surely a million dollars worth of talent, all in the same cafe!
Clarence Breboneria, Mark John Yap and Jetro Pabustan discussing politics, climate change, religion, dating apps, and even how to bring down their next opponents.
YES these boys are DIVERSE !
Watch out for the middle guy, a KILLER named Yap. He is CDO through and through, but just arrived in Manila to prepare for an October 23 showdown with Papua New Guinea's strongman Junior Raka.
Mark John Yap looked in great touch in August when he fought the King's Warrior Charly Suarez, and both these fighters return to the ring in October and form the two main events.
Suarez has a formidable task of his own, taking on the very Ferocious Carlo Magali.
If you are in Manila and a diehard boxing fan, you don't want to miss these two epic features. Cracking support bouts also.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Love watching this guy at work.
Three times OPBF champ, and a technician with 30 wins to his name, Mark John Yap is without doubt the most experienced boxer amongst an outstanding card at the BATTLEFIELD next month.
It is a rare treat to see Yap perform on home soil, as he has fought abroad in places like Japan, USA and Dubai in recent years. He made a quick trip home in 2019, and was rewarded with an impressive Knockout win in front of adoring CDO fans. He was not sighted in the Philippines again till August of this year, when he faced the mercurial Charly Suarez in a WBA title bout. Despite a points loss, it was a near vintage Yap that impressed onlookers and Suarez himself :
" Mark fought a very clever fight. He reads the punches very well, and he shows his experience with lots of variety. He is very tough and experienced. "
Yap never has easy opponents, and in his inimitable style, takes on Papuan Warrior Junior Raka in his upcoming bout.
Raka was a feisty amateur before turning pro, and despite limited opportunities, has shown great signs. He scored two great wins over quality Pinoy Allan Vallespin, and endured a points loss over the top class Roldan Aldea in a WBA title match.
It is also well known that the "PNG PRODIGY " has 7 additional fights not listed in BoxRec, and is unbeaten with 6 knockouts. BOOM! This pride of Papua New Guinea has got guns in both hands!
This will be a colossal contest, and like any fight of Mark John Yap, we would not expect anything less!
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
That's right, another torrid Friday afternoon session, but always time for a smile amongst the hard work !
Promising talent Clarence Breboneria is surrounded by boxing wisdom with Jetro Pabustan and Mark John Yap lending some advice.
Breboneria and Yap have big fights coming up in October, and are sure to be in immaculate shape under the guidance of Pabustan.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Cris Ganoza, JonJon Estrada and Roland Jay Biendima at Ninoy Aquino Airport pictured early this morning, and bound for Osaka Japan.All three Elorde boys will fight this Sunday, but at two different events.Cris Ganoza meets unbeaten Goki Kobayashi on the same card as Roland Biendima, who matches up with Tetsuro Ohashi.Meanwhile, in another part of Osaka, if they are hearing blood curdling screams, you will know why!The Wolverine JonJon Estrada goes to war with Yushi Fujita, and this will be EPIC! Fujita loves to trade, and has the style that really plays into the hands of the Philippines cult hero and KO specialist Estrada. This will definitely be an action fan's dream fight, and a very clear example of, you get to live or die by the sword !Great match up but predicting a Wolverine victory in Osaka !
Cagayan de Oro boxer Mark John Yap returns to Manila on Monday to ramp up preparations for his impending clash with Papua New Guinea hard man Junior "the Prodigy" Raka.
Yap had been on the international circuit for many years prior to the pandemic, and local fans have really been deprived of seeing his superb skills on home soil. His appearance at the BATTLEFIELD show next month is a huge coup, because Yap had only performed twice in the Philippines in recent history.
After a highly successful stint in Japan, which culminated in 3 OPBF titles, Yap returned briefly to his native Mindanao in 2019. While he was there, he took on the really promising fighter Ulysses Lagos, a bout that he won by impressive KO in front of a big crowd in CDO.
Yap was not seen again in the Philippines till August this year, where he engaged in a WBA belt clash with the unbeaten Charly Suarez. This was a really superb performance by Yap, and despite losing on points, endorsed that he is still at the top of his game.
It was anticipated that no matter who Mark John Yap matched up with this October, it would be a "stay busy" assignment, possibly a soft win, but then the PNG Prodigy Junior Raka threw his hat in the ring!
Raka is of short stature and powerful, and typically PNG warrior stock, a real tough SOB! And the man has skills too!
Junior Raka has accepted this challenge at really short notice, more so, he asked for it! It is super impressive stuff in a sport where many are constantly hiding out.
VSP Promotions can say emphatically that NO ONE WANTED TO FIGHT MARK JOHN YAP, so that gives you some insight to how highly regarded "the Journeyman" is at home.
But reputations count for nothing once you are in the ring and touch gloves, so DO NOT MISS THIS BOUT! Fireworks !
MARK JOHN YAP v JUNIOR RAKA
8 rounds Super Featherweight 59kg
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
*story courtesy Baguio Midland Courier
Benguet-based boxer Carlo Magali, the reigning Philippine Games and Amusement Board super featherweight champion, will challenge World Boxing Association Asia Charly Suarez at the Elorde Sports Complex in Parañque City on Oct. 23.
The 32-year-old Magali will again enter the ring after a two-year hiatus from boxing since capturing the Asian Boxing Federation and PGAB super featherweight belts against Al Toyogon in December 2019.
At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Magali along with fellow boxers under Highland Boxing of Igorot international boxing promoter Brico Santig, opted to stay in La Trinidad and had to look for ways to support their families, as sports promotions were prohibited.
Magali, whose boxing career has been revived by Highland Boxing, said he respects his opponent, who remains undefeated in his 12 professional bouts.
The 34-year-old Suarez of San Isidro, Davao del Norte, who represented the Philippines in the 2016 Rio Olympics, turned professional boxer in 2019, the year he captured the Philippines Mindanao Professional Boxing Federation lightweight belt.
A year later, he captured the Philippines Luzon ProBA super featherweight belt which he successfully defended against Filipino challengers.
Santig, who is actively promoting boxing events in the Middle East and other parts of Asia, travelled back to La Trinidad last week to check the training of Magali.
Magali captured the vacant Asian Boxing Federation super featherweight belt and the vacant Philippine super featherweight belt at the Manila Arena in 2019.
He clinched the belts via split decision victory against Al Toyogon in the main event of “Knockout” promoted by Santig and Darwin Miller Dep-ay of Highland Boxing and DMAD Promotions.
In June 2018, Magali failed to defend his Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation super featherweight belt to an undefeated Japanese boxer Hionori Mishiro via split decision in their 12-round championship bout in Japan. – Harley F. Palangchao
Perhaps one of the unluckiest boxers in recent months is high octane performer Jino Rodrigo. The "Silent Beast" has been the victim of multiple fight cancelations, including an international challenge in Kazakhstan. But Borat's loss is Philippines' gain, and the big news breaking today is that GAB has approved the late inclusion of Rodrigo at BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22.
Jino Rodrigo takes on a previous opponent in Kelvin Tenorio, a fighter who he edged a points victory over back in 2018. Tenorio managed to survive onslaughts from top prospects like Jose Roda Jr and Carlo Bacaro, so this should be a really good clash.
And Jino is a MADMAN !
You will never see the Silent Beast in a boring fight - this is a guy that always tries to put the judges out of a job !
If there is a Knockout to be had, Jino Rodrigo is the man to deliver it, because he carries the sleeping pills in both hands !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Chillers, thrillers and KILLERZZZ assembled at Elorde Southbox this morning for yet another training block.
Big fights coming!!
Next event BATTLEFIELD Oct 23 in Manila
Destined to be a barnburner and likely to steal all the thunder at BATTLEFIELD this October is the Junior Raka and Mark John Yap main undercard bout.
This has all the makings of a classic showdown in Parañaque Manila, yet oddly, neither fighter has local advantages.
Junior Raka hails from Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. It's a country which is abundant in sporting talent, and where the interest in boxing is gaining momentum.
Mark John Yap is a son of Cagayan de Oro, in the southern Philippines island of Mindanao. This is arguably the most prolific location in the world for producing champion fighters - Charly Suarez and Manny Pacquiao being just two of the recent alma mater.
Mark John Yap is currently the Philippines #2 rated 130, and judging by what we saw recently against WBA champion Suarez, that looks accurate. Yap was simply outstanding despite defeat.
Junior Raka is really up against it, but that's the way he likes it. A quality amateur with plenty of firepower, the PNG Prodigy jumped at the chance to fight Yap at very short notice. Despite his recent inactivity, expect the PNG banger to bring pressure, and lots of it! He knows how to cut the ring, has nice timing, and can really find the target.
This is a fight deserving of main event status. Do not miss it !
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
*story courtesy of Daily Tribune
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — Carlo Magali attempts to mess up the grand plans of Rio Olympics veteran Charly Suarez in his bid to win the World Boxing Association Asia super-featherweight title on 23 October at the Flash Grand Ballroom of the Elorde Sports Complex.
The Bohol-born Magali, who has been based here, enters the ring armed with a 25 win record with 13 knockouts.
Magali swears he holds a big edge in experience but that alone won’t be enough to beat Suarez, who has an undefeated record of 12 wins, including seven knockouts.
“But Suarez is also good so I have to be prepared,” Magali said.
A former Orient-Pacific Boxing Federation champion, Magali, 35, became a headliner many years ago when he fought in Australia.
Magali scored a 12th-round knockout of Davey Browne Jr. with 30 seconds remaining before the end of the fight.
Browne would spend a few days in hospital while in coma before dying owing to massive head injuries.
Suarez is handled by his former teammate in the national team, Delfin Boholst.
Philippines Al Toyogan and Cuba's Armando Martinez Rabi made weight just moments ago.
Rabi is a former amateur standout, who is now 7 and 0 as a pro, and if you think Cubans lack pop, think again! The dynamic punching Rabi has put 6 of his victims away by knockout !
Fans of Toyogan know that he boasts plenty of firepower of his own, and combined with a great chin, he is sure to give Armando Rabi a huge challenge.
This is a spectacular fight, and as good as the Cuban is, Philippines' Toyogan is a real live dog!
This is genuine 50/50 !
Elorde Gym boxer Al Toyogan has touched down in Dubai ahead of Saturday's big fight with unbeaten Cuban Armando Martinez Rabi.
Rabi is a former amateur standout, who is now 7 and 0 as a pro, and if you think Cubans lack pop, think again! The dynamic punching Rabi has put 6 of his victims away by knockout !
Fans of Toyogan know that he boasts plenty of firepower of his own, and combined with a great chin, he is sure to give Armando Rabi a huge challenge.
This is a spectacular fight, and as good as the Cuban is, Philippines' Toyogan is a real live dog!
This is genuine 50/50 !
Have a look at some of the cracking gunfights on this card to open for Suarez and Magali !
The unbeaten Weljon Mindoro matches up with the Highland's Gym resuming power puncher Jun Ibgos. Both these boys have crazy KO stats !
D'HAMMER is back in a big way. He looked rock solid against a quality Jufel Salina, and is looking to build on that performance against a really smart fighter in Ivor Lastrilla.
Jerald Into is rapidly improving young fighter, and is potentially the best 135 in the land, but has he bitten off more than he can chew at this stage with a killer named Eduardo Mancito ? Love this fight, Mancito has fought the best (even Suarez ) and he did great. This is very definitely one of the best fights all day.
Every bout on this morning card is loaded with talent and FIREPOWER!
We will have a review on all these matches in coming weeks.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Congratulations to our friend Virgel Vitor on his recent WBO Oriental title win.
Vitor scored a spectacular round 3 KO of Thailand's Arnon Yupang to secure the belt.
The Bohol fighter, known as Valiente, was a World Team member at the VSP Promotions Victory8 event held in Hanoi in late 2019. Vitor fought a superb battle with Vietnam Team's Nguyễn Văn Gioi in front of a crowd of 25,000 people, and it was obvious from his performance that night that he had a very big future.
Well done on your victory Virgel, and wishing you further success in your path ahead.
Former smart amateur Donald Laurejas makes a short turnaround when he takes on debutant Jess Mike Malaca this October in Parañaque.
Laurejas made a solid debut in August, getting a decision over a vastly improved Marlon Bacolando. He showed some nice touches in that fight, and looked excellent when he used his height and reach to advantage. It is fair to say that the more experienced Bacolando applied good pressure in that contest, and Laurejas will definitely improve significantly from that bout.
BATTLEFIELD UKC has some really promising young fighters on the card, and you can include Donald Laurejas in that group. He has sparred with some big names prior and subsequent to his debut, and has handled the pressure extremely well. Expect to see a vastly improved performance when this young man steps into the ring on October 23rd.
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Papua New Guinea's best known fighter is headed to Manila, and has agreed to terms to face "the Journeyman" Mark John Yap at the BATTLEFIELD on October 23rd. Junior "the Prodigy" Raka is a former Arafura Games silver medallist, and has had 3 "official" professional bouts, winning 2 by way of Knockout. But the PNG banger has 7 fights which BoxRec failed to list - all wins, and all knockouts!
His only career loss was on points to the outstanding pinoy Roldan Aldea, in a WBA title match in early 2021. Mark John Yap looked outstanding in his recent WBA clash with Charly Suarez, and his effort left Junior Raka a fan:"It was a really great fight by Mark Yap, lots of clever boxing. I was really impressed. I realize this will be a very hard fight for me, as I am accepting the job at short notice.
But I am very confident in my ability, and I know I have the power to get his attention. Make no mistake, PNG fighters are proud warriors, and this will be a GREAT FIGHT!"
Junior Raka and Mark John Yap will be the main undercard bout to Suarez v Magali at
BATTLEFIELD UKC TIGER 2O22
Elorde Sports Centre Paranaque Manila Sunday October 23rd
Yes! Saturday is work day too! These three Elorde boys are busy honing the skills and building bone and muscle. Jules Victoriano just returned from Vietnam, where he had a huge encounter with local lightweight champ Dinh Hong Quan.
Cris Ganoza and the Wolverine have exciting times ahead, and will venture to Japan this month. Ganoza takes on unbeaten Goki Kobayashi, whilst Estrada looks to put the claws into Yushi Fujita.
WATCH OUT JAPAN!
