FightnewsAsia

Mindoro fights a stronger Mexican opponent

By Lito delos Reyes

UNDEFEATED Weljon “Triggerman” Mindoro of Zamboanga del Sur is fighting a stronger opponent from Mexico on June 5, Friday in Mexico.
The 26-year-old Mindoro is fighting Elias “Latin Kid” Espadas [23-8-1, 16KOs] of Mexico.
“My opponent is not just any opponent, even though he has already lost,” said Mindoro [16-0-1, 16KOs].
He added: “I know that he is a strong opponent because in his last loss, he went 10 rounds.”
“As long as I give him a good fight,” said Mindoro. '
Mindoro said that he has good training in Proboxtv with Coach Edgar Berlanga and Marc Farrait.
He has been training at Florida Plant City in the United States of America sincelast month.
His managers are Gerry Balmes, Orlando Borcelango and Maeden Borcelango.
Espadas, on the other hand, had three fights last year in the USA.
He first settled a majority draw with Sadriddin Akhmedov of Kazakhstan last April 19 at Commerce Casino in Commerce.
Espadas then suffered a technical decision in the 5th round to Ireland’s Callum Walsh for the WBC Continental Americas super welterweight title last June 21 at Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez.
The 35-year-old Espadas lost again to Brazil’s Hebert Conceicao Sousa by a unanimous decision for the WBO Latino super middleweight title last December 18 in Fort Lauderdale.
UNDEFEATED.
Weljon “Triggerman” Mindoro of Zamboanga del Sur [left] with GAB chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera.

🚨 DYNAMITE IS BACK! 🚨Daniel Dubois shakes off early drama to stop Fabio Wardley in a thrilling 11th-round WAR! 💥🥊 Two-time World Champion! 🏆🔥What a fight for British boxing! Respect to both men. 👏💨

Dianxing Zhu Outguns "The Assassin" Ian Abne in Thriller, Earns Shot at IBF Champion Pedro Taduran🔥By Carlos Costa / 🥊 CEBU CITY — Chinese power-puncher Dianxing Zhu survived a firefight with Cebuano fan-favorite Ian "The Assassin" Abne to win a hard-earned unanimous decision Saturday, May 9, at the Cebu Coliseum, capturing the IBF Minimumweight World Title Eliminator and a shot at champion Pedro Taduran.

Judges scored it 115-111, 116-110, and 114-112, all for the 29-year-old Zhu of Chengdu. With the victory, Zhu improves to 17-1, 14 KOs and becomes the mandatory challenger for IBF 105-lb king Pedro "El Heneral" Taduran.

A Battle of Wills

The slick southpaw Abne (12-1-2, 4 KOs), fighting out of Cebu’s ARQ Gym, came out fast. The Cagayan de Oro native used slick angles and sharp counters to bank the early rounds, exciting the Cebu Coliseum crowd.

But Zhu’s pressure was relentless. The taller Chinese contender started taking control of the toe-to-tow battle landing hard shots to the body and head. By the middle rounds, Zhu’s heavier punches began to take their toll.

Abne hit rough waters in the 10th. Hurt and tiring, he dug deep after a meaningful corner talk from Boholano head coach Fernando Ocon. The Cebuano warrior digged deep down and traded to the final bell, closing a brutal, unforgettable 12-round war that fans will not forget.

Next: Taduran vs Zhu

With the win, Zhu now targets IBF Light Flyweight World Champion Pedro “El Heneral” Taduran (20-4-1, 14 KOs) later this year. Taduran and his caring manager Cucuy Elorde watched from ringside Saturday and will have plenty to study.

Abne Still World Class

Despite the loss, Abne proved to fans that he belongs with the elite. Prior to Saturday, he was ranked IBF #4, WBA #10, WBC #12, and WBO #11. While those numbers will shift, most fans expect him to remain in the rankings.

Abne left it all in the ring against a world-level opponent, earning respect in defeat and making ARQ Gym and Cebu proud. I feel proud of him, we all should. As their ARQ motto says “Hardwork and Discipline: Just Keep Doing.”

God bless Cebu’s ARQ Boxing Gym for the fantastic effort!

Ringside for Saturday’s action-packed show were beloved boxing patron don Antonio Aldeguer, GAB Boxing Chief Rodil Manaog, IBF Vice President Ben Keilty, Promoter Cucuy Elorde, plus Filipino legends Nonito Donaire and Donnie Nietes.

Kudos to Chao Sy Promotions and Events for delivering another scintillating card at the iconic Cebu Coliseum in the heart of Colon.

Photos by Carlos Costa and JD Sanchez for Philboxing.com

The author Carlos Costa is a veteran Cebu boxing writer. [email protected]

🇵🇭 Aranas Survives Harsh Knockdown, Stops Noynay, Claims WBF Strap in (FULL RESULTS) 🔥By Carlos Costa / 🥊 CEBU CITY — Jemuel "Iron Man" Aranas proved he’s got heart to match his power!

Floored by a perfect counter in round two, the Carcar slugger climbed off the canvas and came roaring back, dropping Jeric Noynay twice in round three to score a dramatic TKO win Saturday, May 9, at the iconic Cebu Coliseum.

With the victory, Aranas of the Chao Sy Stable claims the WBF Silver Flyweight Title and cements himself as one of Cebu’s must-watch punchers!

• The Finish:

Noynay (5-3, 1 KO ) of Medellin in Northern Cebu looked sharp early, timing Aranas (9-3-1, 5 KOs) with a clean right hand that sent the Carcar Iron Man down in the second.

But Aranas beat the count, cleared his head, and came out firing in the third.

A thunderous left hook hurt Noynay, and Aranas poured it on. Two knockdowns later, referee Angelito Piquero of Mabini, , waved it off at 2:17 of round three. The Coliseum was thrilled. Good job Jemuel Aranas!!

WBF Vice President Alvin S. Go of supervised the title bout. The card was promoted by beloved Cebuano boxing patron sir Lorenzo Sy of Chao Sy Promotions and Events.

• "Fists of Fury - The Eliminator" FULL RESULTS

Main Event – IBF Minimumweight World Title Eliminator:
Dianxing Zhu (China) 105 lbs def. Ian Paul “The Assassin” Abne (Cebu) 104 lbs by unanimous decision. Zhu now becomes mandatory challenger to IBF world champion Pedro “El Heneral” Taduran

Co-Main – WBF Silver Flyweight Title:
Jemuel Aranas (Carcar) 110 lbs TKO3 Jeric Noynay (Medellin) 110¾ lbs

• Undercard Action:

👉 Dashing John Paul Gabunillas (Chao Sy) 113.4 lbs TKO4 Ramil Roda Jr. (Omega) 115 lbs

👉Mark Sabang (Masbate) 118.8 lbs def. Jubert Cahimat (Omega) 118.8 lbs by split decision. Sabang rose from the canvas to pull out the thrilling win.

👉 Jony Mar Loreno (Omega) 116.5 lbs def. Kei Mark Makut (Davao) 112 lbs by majority decision.

👉 Marlon Alejandro (Negros) 110.8 lbs def. Carl Penedo (ARQ) 111.8 lbs by split decision. Upset win for the 7-11-2 underdog.

👉 Justin Trazo (Chao Sy) 113.5 lbs TKO1 Conrad Jason Agujar (Bohol) 114.9 lbs. Trazo needed less than 3 minutes

👉Aqoian Li (China) 133 lbs def. Jerson Baclohan (Mandaue) 131.6 lbs by unanimous decision. Successful pro debut for Li

👉 Venance Dances (Big Yellow) 117.1 lbs def. Norman Russiana (Mandaue) 118.5 lbs by split decision.

The nine-bout show, billed as "Fists of Fury - The Eliminator," was supervised by GAB Boxing Chief Rodil E. Manaog and GAB Cebu Chief Jimmy Donton.

Congrats to all the warriors who stepped through the ropes at the Cebu Coliseum. You made us proud, Laban Pinoy!! 🇵🇭👍🥊

Official GAB data courtesy of Ian Melodillar of Los Baños, Laguna

Photos by Carlos Costa

This story was written by veteran boxing writer Carlos Costa of Cebu 🇵🇭 Philippines, [email protected]

PBF sets Inter-City Professional Boxing tournament

By Lito delos Reyes

THE Philippine Boxing Federation [PBF] will soon start its first Inter-City Professional Boxing tournament in August.
“The tournament is designed to provide every participating city and municipality the opportunity to showcase the skills,” said PBF president Gabriel “Bebot” Elorde Jr.
It aims to promote sportsmanship, discover and develop emerging boxing talents, and strengthen camaraderie among cities and municipalities through the discipline and spirit of boxing.
It will also serve as a platform to highlight local boxing excellence while encouraging unity, healthy competition, and community pride.
“It's a format like MPBL. But instead of basketball, we're into boxing,” said PBF vice-president Ford Rafa.
Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) is a men's regional professional basketball league in the Philippines.
“To avoid making it too difficult for managers, we will include the LGU,” said Rafa.
Amateur boxers will also be included in the undercard.
PBF also encourages participating cities and municipalities to organize their own cheering squads to support their athletes and help create an exciting and lively atmosphere during the event.
PBF remains committed to supporting grassroots and professional boxing development while building stronger relationships among communities through sports.
THE MEETING.
PBF President Gabriel "Bebot" Elorde Jr. [extreme right] and Vice-President Ford Rafa [2nd from right] with members of PBF during the meeting today, May 9 at Elorde Sports Complex in Paranaque City.

Ancajas excited to have new opponent

By Lito delos Reyes

FORMER IBF World super flyweight champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas of Panabo City is excited to have a new opponent – undefeated Omar Trinidad of the USA.
They will fight on June 28 at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Chelsea Ballroom in Las Vegas.
The 30-year-old Trinidad has 20 wins with 14 knockouts and two draws.
“I'm so excited and this is a great challenge for me,” said Ancajas [38-4-2, 25KOs].
The southpaw Ancajas is being trained by Joven Jimenez at the Knucklehead Gym in Las Vegas.
The sparring partners will be known next week.
“I will not be confident. As you can see in his record, he is undefeated,” said Ancajas.
“But we'll try to get the victory,” he added.
Ancajas said that “Zuffa is one of the most beautiful promotion today because the fight is almost beautiful.”
“We will try hard to get a champion in Zuffa,” said Ancajas.
Trinidad, on the other hand, recently stopped Max Ornelas in the 10th round last January 23 at Meta Apex in Las Vegas.
The event is billed as “Zuffa Boxing 8”. It is promoted by Dana White and Turki Al-Sheikh.

2 vacant JBC titles at stake on June 22

By Lito delos Reyes

TWO VACANT titles of the Japan Boxing Commission Japanese will be at stake on June 22 in one boxing promotion at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.
Ryuya Kusamura [6-1-1, 5KOs] of Fukuoka will fight Kazuki Kzohara [9-3-3, 4KOs] of Saga for the vacant JBC Japanese super middleweight title 10-rounds.
Shoto Ochial [5-2-0, 1KOs] of Tokyo will face Ryu Suzuki [7-2-1, 2KOs] for the vacant JBC Japanese Youth super lightweight title 8-rounder bout.
Hajime Kobayashi of Ichiriki Promotions is the promoter.

Medecilo to face Nakashima on May 24

By Lito delos Reyes

UNBEATEN Zyvyr John ‘Blitz Kid” Medecilo will face Tatsuro Nakashima of Japan for the vacant WBC International Strawweight title on May 24, Sunday at the Elorde Sports Complex in Paranaque City.
The 21-year-old Medecilo is rated no. 17 while Nakashima is ranked no. 13 in the WBC.
Medecilo [8-0-0, 4KOs] recently knocked out veteran Jonathan “Hard Worker” Refugio of Bukidnon in the 3rd round last February 28 at Elorde Sports Complex.
Medecillo earlier had four fights last year. He stopped Mohaleden Kalibo of Midsayap in the 3rd round last March 2 at Elorde Sports Complex.
He then beat Remark Antaran of Davao City by a unanimous decision last June 8 at Flash Grand Ballroom of ESC.
Medecilo knocked out Mochamad Sholimin in the 2ndround last August 24 at FGB of ESC.
He scored a split decision against Richard Garde of Cotabato last October 26 at the San Andres Sports Complex in Malate.
Nakashima,31 [12-5-2, 7KOs], on the other hand, scored a split decision on Roland Toyogon last August 19 at Tembusu Hall in Naha.
Cucuy Elorde of UKC Pro Boxing Edition is the promoter,

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF THE WORLD KICKBOXING LEAGUE (WKL)

By thr WKL Press Department

Since 1997, Rafa López has led from Miami one of the most active international organizations in the promotion and sanctioning of combat sports events worldwide. WKL currently has a presence in 65 countries and a consolidated structure across different continents.

With a 7th Dan in Taekwon-Do and a 7th Dan in Kickboxing, he developed an outstanding athletic career with more than 200 fights. He was Spanish Champion, European Champion, and World Vice-Champion in Kickboxing and in the International Taekwon-Do Federation, being considered one of the pioneers of ITF Taekwon-Do in Spain.

During the 1990s, he ranked within the international Top Ten, appearing in the most relevant rankings of the time such as WKC / IKF / WKU / WKF and RING REPORT, the latter considered in those years the most prestigious and absolute reference of the international circuit.

Rafa López was the first Spaniard to be inducted into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame (1999, New Jersey, USA), an international recognition reserved for historical figures in the martial arts.

How did you begin in martial arts?

I started in WTF Taekwondo at a very young age and later transitioned to ITF Taekwon-Do and Kickboxing, where I developed my competitive career at both national and international levels.

What motivated you to move from competitor to sports executive?

My experience as an athlete allowed me to identify the need for a solid international structure that would offer real opportunities to competitors. That vision was the starting point for founding WKL in 1997.

Where and when was WKL founded?

The organization was founded in 1997 in Miami, with the objective of creating an international platform for the development and professionalization of combat sports.

What is WKL’s main mission?

To professionalize and structure combat sports through official rankings, championships, and internationally recognized titles.

In how many countries does it currently operate?

WKL currently operates in 65 countries, with active delegations across different continents.

Has WKL expanded into other disciplines?

Yes. Under the same institutional umbrella, new structures have been developed such as:

WMMAL (World MMA League)
WBL Boxing
WBL Muay Thai (based in Pattaya)
WKL Karate

This consolidates a multidisciplinary structure within the international arena. We have always tried to be an organization of opportunities, not opportunists.

What have been the biggest challenges since its founding?

International expansion, the creation of official delegations, and maintaining homogeneous technical and organizational standards at every sanctioned event.

How do you see the current evolution of the sport?

Growth has been remarkable thanks to professionalization, internationalization, and increased media visibility of combat sports.

What opportunities does WKL offer young athletes?

Club affiliation, participation in official events, access to international rankings, and the possibility of competing for continental and world titles.

How is safety guaranteed at events?

Through official regulations, certified referees, and technical supervision at every competition.

What role do coaches and promoters play?

They are fundamental pillars, as they train athletes and organize events that enable international expansion and consolidation.

What are the future objectives?

To continue expanding international presence and further consolidate the organization’s multidisciplinary structure.

“WKL was founded in 1997 in Miami with the objective of creating an international platform for the development and professionalization of combat sports.”

How do you see the expansion in Spain?

The expansion in Spain is represented by the Liga WKL Spain Association, recognized as the only authorized structure in the country.

The use of the WKL name must be linked to this official and current representation.

What international events are scheduled for 2026?

In May, the IAKSA/WKL World Championship will be held in Italy, strengthening the international amateur circuit.

In July, the WKL World Cup will take place in Argentina, consolidating expansion in the Americas.

Which names would you highlight within WKL?

One of the organization’s greatest prides is its select WKL Hall of Fame, whose members represent the historical elite of combat sports:

Don Wilson
Rick Roufus
Benny Urquidez
Fred Royers
Dida Diafat
Troy Dorsey
Mike Stone
Jerry Trimble
Jean-Yves Thériault
Eric Castaños

Being a member of the WKL Hall of Fame is today an international prestige that reflects the reputation and consolidated trajectory of the organization.

Thank you very much for your words. Would you like to add anything else?

Thanks to the media outlets that for decades have given visibility to martial arts in Spain, especially El Budoka for its constant support and promotion.

Our recognition goes to everyone wh

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF THE WORLD KICKBOXING LEAGUE (WKL)

By: WKL Press Department

Since 1997, Rafa López has led from Miami one of the most active international organizations in the promotion and sanctioning of combat sports events worldwide. WKL currently has a presence in 65 countries and a consolidated structure across different continents.

With a 7th Dan in Taekwon-Do and a 7th Dan in Kickboxing, he developed an outstanding athletic career with more than 200 fights. He was Spanish Champion, European Champion, and World Vice-Champion in Kickboxing and in the International Taekwon-Do Federation, being considered one of the pioneers of ITF Taekwon-Do in Spain.

During the 1990s, he ranked within the international Top Ten, appearing in the most relevant rankings of the time such as WKC / IKF / WKU / WKF and RING REPORT, the latter considered in those years the most prestigious and absolute reference of the international circuit.

Rafa López was the first Spaniard to be inducted into the Taekwondo Hall of Fame (1999, New Jersey, USA), an international recognition reserved for historical figures in the martial arts.

How did you begin in martial arts?

I started in WTF Taekwondo at a very young age and later transitioned to ITF Taekwon-Do and Kickboxing, where I developed my competitive career at both national and international levels.

What motivated you to move from competitor to sports executive?

My experience as an athlete allowed me to identify the need for a solid international structure that would offer real opportunities to competitors. That vision was the starting point for founding WKL in 1997.

Where and when was WKL founded?

The organization was founded in 1997 in Miami, with the objective of creating an international platform for the development and professionalization of combat sports.

What is WKL’s main mission?

To professionalize and structure combat sports through official rankings, championships, and internationally recognized titles.

In how many countries does it currently operate?

WKL currently operates in 65 countries, with active delegations across different continents.

Has WKL expanded into other disciplines?

Yes. Under the same institutional umbrella, new structures have been developed such as:

WMMAL (World MMA League)
WBL Boxing
WBL Muay Thai (based in Pattaya)
WKL Karate

This consolidates a multidisciplinary structure within the international arena. We have always tried to be an organization of opportunities, not opportunists.

What have been the biggest challenges since its founding?

International expansion, the creation of official delegations, and maintaining homogeneous technical and organizational standards at every sanctioned event.

How do you see the current evolution of the sport?

Growth has been remarkable thanks to professionalization, internationalization, and increased media visibility of combat sports.

What opportunities does WKL offer young athletes?

Club affiliation, participation in official events, access to international rankings, and the possibility of competing for continental and world titles.

How is safety guaranteed at events?

Through official regulations, certified referees, and technical supervision at every competition.

What role do coaches and promoters play?

They are fundamental pillars, as they train athletes and organize events that enable international expansion and consolidation.

What are the future objectives?

To continue expanding international presence and further consolidate the organization’s multidisciplinary structure.

“WKL was founded in 1997 in Miami with the objective of creating an international platform for the development and professionalization of combat sports.”

How do you see the expansion in Spain?

The expansion in Spain is represented by the Liga WKL Spain Association, recognized as the only authorized structure in the country.

The use of the WKL name must be linked to this official and current representation.

What international events are scheduled for 2026?

In May, the IAKSA/WKL World Championship will be held in Italy, strengthening the international amateur circuit.

In July, the WKL World Cup will take place in Argentina, consolidating expansion in the Americas.

Which names would you highlight within WKL?

One of the organization’s greatest prides is its select WKL Hall of Fame, whose members represent the historical elite of combat sports:

Don Wilson
Rick Roufus
Benny Urquidez
Fred Royers
Dida Diafat
Troy Dorsey
Mike Stone
Jerry Trimble
Jean-Yves Thériault
Eric Castaños

Being a member of the WKL Hall of Fame is today an international prestige that reflects the reputation and consolidated trajectory of the organization.

Thank you very much for your words. Would you like to add anything else?

Thanks to the media outlets that for decades have given visibility to martial arts in Spain, especially El Budoka for its constant support and promotion.

Our recognition goes to everyone wh

💥Fireworks Expected as Cebu's 🇵🇭Aranas and 🇵🇭Noynay Rumble for WBF Silver Belt 🔥 By Carlos Costa / 🥊 CEBU CITY — Two of Cebu’s most exciting young flyweights are set for war!

Jemuel Aranas and Jeric Noynay both made weight without issue Friday at the Cebu Coliseum, GAB officially green-lighting their eight-round battle for the vacant WBF Silver Flyweight Title today, Saturday, May 9.

Aranas (8-3-1, 4 KOs), the Carcar action star from the Chao Sy Stable, came-in ripped at 110 lbs.

Meanwhile, Nonay (5-2-1, 1 KO), the Medellin pride representing Martinez Boxing Team, scaled 110¾ lbs. Both fighters looked in AWESOME condition, promising a fan-friendly brawl with major career implications.

The WBF (World Boxing Foundation) has appointed an experienced crew for this action title battle: legendary Cebuano referee Tony Pesons will be the third man in the ring, joined by judges Kristoffer Embodo, Rolando Mendoza, and Angelito Boaquin. WBF Vice President Alvin S. Go flies in from to supervise.

• FULL CARD WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Main – IBF Minimumweight World Title Eliminator.
Dianxing Zhu (China) 105 lbs vs Ian Paul “The Assassin” Abne (Cebu) 104 lbs. This clash is ultra important because the winner becomes mandatory challenger to IBF world champion Pedro “El Heneral” Taduran.

Co-Main Event – WBF Silver Flyweight Title, 8 Rounds
Jemuel Aranas (Carcar) 110 lbs vs Jeric Noynay (Medellin) 110¾ lbs

• UNDERCARDS:

👉 John Paul Gabunillas (Chao Sy) 113.4 vs Ramil Roda Jr. (Omega) 115

👉 Jubert Cahimat (Omega) 118.8 vs Mark Sabang (Masbate) 118.8

👉 Jony Mar Loreno (Omega) 116.5 vs Kei Mark Makut (Davao) 112

👉 Carl Penedo (ARQ) 111.8 vs Marlon Alejandro (Negros) 110.8

👉 Justin Trazo (Chao Sy) 113.5 vs Conrad Jason Agujar (Bohol) 114.9

👉 Aqoian Li (China) 133 vs Jerson Baclohan (Mandaue) 131.6 – Li’s pro debut.

👉 Venance Dances (Big Yellow) 117.1 vs Norman Russiana (Mandaue) 118.5

• SHOW INFO:

Where: Cebu Coliseum, Colon, Cebu City.
When: Saturday, May 9 | First bell 4:00 PM.
Admission: Doors open 3:00 PM, tickets at the gate.

Nine bouts. Local heroes. International stakes. Be there when the next Cebuano star scores his Big KO win!!!

Laban Pinoy!!! 🇵🇭👍🥊

This story was written by veteran boxing reporter Carlos Costa in Cebu 🇵🇭 Philippines,
[email protected]