Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Tag: Boxing

  • “It was a difficult decision”: Eumir Marcial opens up on skipping Asian Games to focus on professional boxing career

    “It was a difficult decision”: Eumir Marcial opens up on skipping Asian Games to focus on professional boxing career

    Eumir Marcial has long established himself as one of the Philippines’ finest boxers, building an impressive résumé that includes medals at the Olympic Games, World Championships, Asian Games, and Southeast Asian Games. But as he enters a crucial stage of his career, the Filipino middleweight has made it clear that his focus is now firmly set on achieving his ultimate dream in the professional ranks—a world championship.

     

    The 30-year-old southpaw has confirmed that he will skip the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, opting instead to continue climbing the professional rankings as he pursues a world title opportunity.

     

    Marcial, the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) International middleweight champion, is currently preparing for the eighth fight of his professional career, scheduled for September 19—the same day as the opening ceremony of the Asian Games. With another regional title expected to be on the line, Marcial believes remaining active in the professional circuit is the best path toward securing a world title shot next year.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Get the latest sports updates faster. Join the official Sports PH News Discord community today! https://discord.gg/defTe7KeT

     

    The decision marks a significant shift for one of the country’s most decorated amateur boxers, who has proudly represented the Philippines in numerous international competitions throughout his career.

     

    Speaking during a media interaction, Marcial revealed that he had already informed Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) president Marcus Manalo of his decision.

     

    “It’s a very hard decision but at the same time, I need to continue what I started in my professional career. They respected my decision because I need to go up in the rankings so I can pursue a world title fight by next year,” Marcial said.

    Although stepping away from the Asian Games was not an easy choice, Marcial emphasized that the timing of his professional career leaves him little room to balance both campaigns.

     

    The Olympic bronze medalist has already spent time training in Japan and is expected to fly to Las Vegas next week, where he will continue preparations under renowned coach Kay Koroma as he fine-tunes his game for his upcoming bout.

     

    “I have already represented the country many times since I went pro. It’s really about time and another regional title belt is also on the line,” he added.

     

    Marcial enters his next fight carrying an unblemished professional record of 7-0 with four knockouts, a run that has steadily strengthened his reputation as one of the most promising Filipino fighters in the middleweight division.

     

    His most recent outing came during the 50th anniversary celebration of the historic “Thrilla in Manila” in October 2025 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where he earned a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares. The win not only preserved his perfect record but also reinforced his readiness to compete against higher-ranked opposition as he inches closer to a world championship opportunity.

     

    While his immediate focus is on professional boxing, Marcial has not completely closed the door on amateur competition. The Zamboanga native confirmed that he still intends to pursue qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where he hopes to compete in his third Olympics.

     

    “Los Angeles Olympics? Yes. I will try my best to qualify next year and compete for the third time in the Olympics. But for now, I really need to concentrate on my pro career and get a world title shot. Again, it was a difficult decision, but I need to,” Marcial said.

     

    Marcial’s amateur accomplishments have already secured his place among the country’s boxing greats. In addition to winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he captured a silver medal at the 2019 AIBA World Boxing Championships and has collected multiple medals in both the Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games.

     

    Now entering the prime of his career, Marcial is chasing the one achievement still missing from his decorated résumé—a world championship in the professional ranks. While the Asian Games will move forward without one of the Philippines’ biggest boxing stars, Marcial believes the sacrifice is necessary as he pursues the next—and perhaps biggest—chapter of his career.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Pedro Taduran vs DianXing Zhu IBF title fight called off amid negotiation issues

    Pedro Taduran vs DianXing Zhu IBF title fight called off amid negotiation issues

    Pedro Taduran’s reign as the IBF minimumweight world champion continues to highlight the resilience, toughness, and championship mentality that have defined his boxing career. The Filipino titleholder has established himself as one of the most battle-tested fighters in the lower weight divisions, building a reputation through his relentless style, physical strength, and ability to overcome adversity inside the ring.

     

    Known for his pressure-heavy approach and willingness to engage in demanding exchanges, Taduran has become a difficult challenge for any opponent in the 105-pound division. His ability to absorb punishment, maintain his composure, and continue marching forward has made him one of the most respected fighters in the category.

     

    Beyond his aggressive style, Taduran’s success has been shaped by years of experience against high-level competition. His championship journey has showcased not only his physical abilities but also his ring intelligence and determination, qualities that have allowed him to remain among the Philippines’ most dependable world champions.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Get the latest sports updates faster. Join the official Sports PH News Discord community today! https://discord.gg/defTe7KeT

     

    However, Filipino boxing fans were dealt disappointing news regarding Taduran’s next potential title defense after Cebu-based boxing promoter Lorenzo Sy revealed that plans for a highly anticipated matchup between the IBF champion and mandatory challenger DianXing Zhu have fallen through.

     

    Sy made the announcement during the “Fist of Fury 12” boxing event in Cebu, explaining that negotiations between the two camps had collapsed due to several issues surrounding Zhu’s team.

     

    According to Sy, Zhu’s promoter, manager, and trainer Robin Wong is currently facing legal problems in China, which reportedly led to complications within the fighter’s camp. Sy also revealed that Zhu has since separated from Wong after the two parties failed to reach an agreement, creating uncertainty surrounding the mandatory challenger’s future.

    The negotiations were further complicated by financial disagreements, with Sy claiming that Wong requested a $60,000 purse for Zhu’s participation in the mandatory title fight. Sy said he was only willing to offer $35,000 for a mandatory challenger, emphasizing that Zhu was not entering the bout as a reigning world champion.

     

    “Wala na to, anugon kaayo to, gasto pa. Wala nako ato kay nilayas man to ang boxer nga si Zhu kay wala sila magkasinabot. Sayang kaayo. Akong giingnan ang manager ni Zhu, nga kung ako pa iyahang gipa-handle ato, dawaton to nako ang $35,000 nga Manila or Cebu nga world title fight,” Sy said.

     

    “Ang manager naay pagkahambugero man, ana siya nga okay moduwa mi ug Pilipinas pero $60,000 ang ilahang gusto nga purse. Dili ta makahatag ana kay dili man siya champion. Si Cucuy Elorde pud dili moduwa sa China kay hadlok sila ug hometown decision ug basin naay tikas,” he added.

     

    The cancellation of the planned bout comes as a setback for Taduran, who had already begun preparing for the mandatory challenger. The Filipino champion was seen attending the “Fist of Fury 10: The Eliminator” event at the Cebu Coliseum, where he closely watched the IBF world title eliminator between Zhu and fellow Filipino contender Ian Abne.

     

    Taduran’s presence at the event showed his readiness to face whoever emerged as the next challenger and his commitment to staying active as a world champion. The Filipino boxer had been positioning himself for another significant test in his career after reclaiming the IBF minimumweight crown and proving himself once again among the division’s elite.

     

    Despite the failed negotiations, Taduran’s long-term goals remain unchanged. One of his biggest ambitions is a potential unification showdown against Puerto Rican champion Oscar Collazo, who currently holds both the WBO and WBA minimumweight world titles.

     

    A clash between Taduran and Collazo would be one of the most significant fights in the division, with the winner moving closer toward becoming the undisputed champion at 105 pounds. The matchup would also provide Taduran with an opportunity to further strengthen his legacy as one of the Philippines’ premier boxing figures.

     

    For now, Taduran and his team will wait for the next development regarding his mandatory obligations while keeping their sights on bigger opportunities. With the minimumweight division featuring several talented champions and rising contenders, the path toward unification remains competitive and unpredictable.

     

    As negotiations, mandatory challenges, and promotional discussions continue to shape the landscape of the division, Taduran remains focused on defending his title and proving that his place among boxing’s elite was earned through resilience, discipline, and championship determination.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Charly Suarez eyes another world title shot after career-defining win over Manuel Avila 

    Charly Suarez eyes another world title shot after career-defining win over Manuel Avila 

    Charly Suarez believes his victory over Manuel Avila was more than just another championship win, as it kept him firmly in contention for another opportunity to fight for a world title.


    For the Filipino boxer, victory meant staying in the hunt for another crack at boxing’s biggest prize, while defeat could erase years of climbing back into world title contention.

     

    Suarez made sure the opportunity remained alive, defeating the Mexican-American in San Bernardino, California, to capture the WBO International super featherweight championship and strengthen his standing in the organization’s rankings.

     

    The triumph was especially meaningful because the bout had direct implications in the WBO title picture.

     

    “Si Avila ang magiging mandatory challenger para kay current world champion Emanuel Navarrete. Kaya sobrang saya ko sa naging resulta,” Suarez said.

     

    Rather than viewing the fight as another stop on his professional journey, Suarez treated it as a defining moment. He understood that losing would have undone years of sacrifice and left his pursuit of another world title back at square one.

     

    The victory was the payoff to an intense three-month training camp that tested both his physical and mental endurance. Suarez credited the preparation of his entire team for allowing him to stay composed under the pressure of a high-stakes fight.

     

    “Hindi talaga madali. Tatlong buwan kaming naghanda para sa laban,” Suarez said. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Get the latest sports updates faster. Join the official Sports PH News Discord community today! https://discord.gg/defTe7KeT  

    “Nagkaroon kami ng press conference at alam kong naghanda rin ang kalaban ko. Pero kinaya namin ang pressure kasama ang buong team. In-apply lang namin sa ring ang lahat ng pinaghirapan namin sa training.”

     

    The win added another milestone to the career of the former Olympian, who has remained among the top contenders in the super featherweight division despite already challenging Emanuel Navarrete for the WBO world championship. 

     

    Instead of dwelling on that previous setback, Suarez has steadily worked his way back into position for another opportunity on boxing’s biggest stage.

     

    With the Avila victory now behind him, discussions have already begun regarding his next assignment as his team evaluates potential opponents who could move him one step closer to another world title fight.

     

    Although he has stepped away from the ring temporarily, Suarez has not taken his foot off the gas. After allowing himself a brief break following months of preparation, the Filipino boxer quickly returned to training and is currently based in Arizona with Renren Gamboa, who was tasked by his coach to oversee his conditioning while the team is away from Las Vegas.

     

    For Suarez, the latest victory was less about celebrating a new championship belt and more about keeping a lifelong dream within reach. With his place in the WBO title race preserved, the road back to another world championship opportunity remains open.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Filipino boxer Weljon Mindoro set for biggest test yet against Mexican Carlos Ocampo in Los Angeles

    Filipino boxer Weljon Mindoro set for biggest test yet against Mexican Carlos Ocampo in Los Angeles

    Unbeaten Filipino boxer Weljon “Triggerman” Mindoro will face one of the toughest challenges of his young professional career when he takes on Mexican veteran Carlos Ocampo on August 29 in Los Angeles, California.


    The upcoming bout will serve as an important measuring stick for Mindoro as he looks to prove that he is ready to compete against more established names in the middleweight division.

     

    Mindoro enters the fight with an impressive 17-0-1 record, including 16 knockouts, showcasing the power that has made him one of the Philippines’ promising boxing prospects.

     

    His latest performance came against Mexico’s Elias Espadas in a 10-round non-title bout last June in Arlington, Texas. 

     

    While the fight ended his knockout streak, Mindoro displayed his boxing skills by outpointing the durable Mexican fighter and securing a unanimous decision victory with scorecards of 98-91, 97-92, and 96-93.

     

    The win also showed that Mindoro can adjust when a knockout is not available, adding another dimension to his style as he continues his development.

     

    The only setback on his professional record remains a draw against Japan’s Takeshi Inoue, a former World Boxing Organization super welterweight title challenger, in May 2023.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.


    Waiting for him in Los Angeles is a seasoned opponent in Ocampo, who brings extensive international experience into the matchup. 

     

    The 29-year-old Mexican owns a 38-4 record with 26 knockouts and previously captured the WBC Continental Americas and WBC Latino super welterweight titles.

     

    Ocampo is coming off a loss to Ireland’s Callum Walsh in his attempt to regain the WBC Continental Americas super welterweight championship, but his experience against high-level competition makes him a significant test for Mindoro.

     

    Beyond his undefeated record, Mindoro has also collected notable achievements outside the professional rankings. The 26-year-old boxer currently holds the IBA Asian Middleweight title, which he won on Dec. 6, 2024, after defeating Australia’s Joel Camilleri by fourth-round technical knockout in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

     

    He also earned a bronze medal during his debut in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, further adding to his growing résumé.

     

    With Ocampo’s veteran experience and ability to withstand pressure, Mindoro will have the chance to show whether his undefeated run can translate into success against a more seasoned opponent.

     

    A victory would keep his unbeaten record intact and strengthen his position as one of the emerging names in the middleweight division.

     

    Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Manny Pacquiao expands boxing legacy with global gym expansion plans

    Manny Pacquiao expands boxing legacy with global gym expansion plans

    Manny Pacquiao’s impact on boxing has long extended beyond his accomplishments inside the ring.

     

    While the Philippine boxing icon and former eight-division world champion continues to remain active in his fighting career at the age of 47, the legendary Filipino has also been focused on expanding his influence through business ventures aimed at developing the next generation of fighters and bringing boxing closer to fans around the world.

     

    Pacquiao recently opened the flagship Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym in Hollywood, California, marking a new chapter in his post-fighting career and his efforts to strengthen his presence in the global boxing industry.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    The facility, which is positioned as a premium boxing and training destination, is led by an experienced coaching team featuring head trainer Marvin Somodio and former World Boxing Council (WBC) light flyweight champion Rodel Mayol. Somodio, who made history as the first Filipino mentor inducted into the U.S. National Boxing Hall of Fame, brings extensive experience in developing fighters, while Mayol adds his championship pedigree and technical knowledge to the program.

     

    The opening of the Hollywood facility is only the beginning of Pacquiao’s ambitious plans, according to MP Promotions chief executive officer (CEO) Jas Mathur. The promotion executive revealed that the organization is preparing to expand the Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym brand into multiple locations across different countries.

     

    “This is the first of many facilities. We are planning on opening a series of them and it won’t be limited just to the United States. This first one is a flagship and of course it’s in a very prime location and it happens to be a takeover of another location before, which makes it even more interesting,” Mathur said during a press conference.

     

    The expansion project reflects Pacquiao’s goal of creating a worldwide boxing network that caters not only to professional athletes but also to aspiring fighters, fitness enthusiasts, and members of the Filipino community abroad.

     

    Mathur explained that Los Angeles was chosen as the location for the flagship facility because of the city’s deep connection to boxing, its large Filipino population, and Pacquiao’s longstanding relationship with the area.

    “First of all, we want to focus on the Filipino community in LA. I mean you know the greater Los Angeles area, out of anywhere in the U.S., it’s pretty much the greatest. Look at the population of California, of Los Angeles. Manny has a huge fanbase in LA, Manny trains in LA for his fights in the US. I live in LA. A lot of the fighters come to LA, so why not LA? Typically it’s either LA or Vegas. But LA needed this, we need this. We feel the location, having three or four million cars passing everyday it’s a no brainer,” he added.

     

    Beyond its strategic location, the gym also serves as a reflection of Pacquiao’s global appeal. Throughout his career, the Filipino superstar became one of boxing’s most recognizable figures, drawing fans from different countries and inspiring millions through his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the sport’s greatest champions.

     

    With that worldwide recognition, MP Promotions believes the Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym brand has the potential to expand far beyond North America.

     

    The organization is reportedly exploring future locations in Vancouver and Toronto in Canada, additional cities across the United States, as well as potential markets in Europe, India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

     

    For Mathur, Pacquiao’s international popularity provides a strong foundation for the growth of the business venture.

     

    “Boxing is international right? Manny is a household brand. There’s not one country that Manny is not known in, one city yet alone,” Mathur concluded.

     

    The gym expansion comes as Pacquiao continues to remain involved in professional boxing. The Filipino legend’s team has been working on possible future fights following the postponement of the highly anticipated “Battle of the Century” rematch against Floyd Mayweather.

     

    Although details regarding the next opponent remain uncertain, Pacquiao’s camp has continued exploring opportunities that could bring the former champion back into the spotlight.

     

    Whether inside the ring or through his growing boxing empire, Pacquiao continues to build his legacy. His latest venture represents an effort to leave a lasting impact on the sport—not only as a champion who inspired generations of fighters, but also as an ambassador working to make boxing more accessible across the globe.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Jas Mathur confirms Manny Pacquiao will fight before year-end after Mayweather rematch delay

    Jas Mathur confirms Manny Pacquiao will fight before year-end after Mayweather rematch delay

    Boxing fans were left disappointed after the highly anticipated rematch between legends Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., dubbed the potential “Battle of the Century” sequel, was postponed. While no official reason was provided for the delay, Pacquiao’s team has already shifted its focus toward securing another bout for the Filipino boxing icon before the end of the year.

     

    MP Promotions Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jas Mathur revealed on Monday, July 13, that Pacquiao remains on track to return to the ring in the fourth quarter of 2026, with an exhibition fight currently being explored as a possible option while discussions continue with potential opponents.

     

    Speaking during a press conference at the Wilcon IT Hub in Makati City, Mathur said Pacquiao’s camp is actively working on several possible matchups but emphasized that no opponent has been finalized.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    “We are focused more on what’s in front of us now. We are working on a few different fights right now for him. Presently there’s likely going to be an exhibition that we are trying to put together in the fourth quarter of this year. Nobody is set, no opponent is set in stone yet. We are still working on that,” Mathur said.

     

    The announcement comes after plans for Pacquiao and Mayweather to meet again in September were put on hold. According to Mathur, both camps are now targeting a possible January date for the long-awaited rematch, although several contractual matters still need to be resolved before the fight can move forward.

     

    “The Floyd fight that everybody wants to know about, that fight is being postponed. Right now, the new tentative date that we have is going to be January. But there’s still other technicalities that need to be addressed before, based on other contractual obligations that Floyd has. So those need to be met in order for this to happen. It was a little bit of a mess that whole situation,” he added.

     

    The delay has created uncertainty around what could have been one of boxing’s biggest attractions in recent years. Pacquiao and Mayweather first met in 2015 in a record-breaking showdown that generated enormous global attention, with Mayweather winning by unanimous decision. A rematch between the two all-time greats has remained a major talking point among boxing fans despite both fighters being well past their competitive primes.

    Amid speculation surrounding the rematch, Mathur also addressed questions regarding the nature of a possible Pacquiao-Mayweather fight, insisting that the bout would be a legitimate professional contest and not merely an exhibition.

     

    “It’s going to be a real fight. It’s not going to be an exhibition. That whole statement that happened, it was never an exhibition, contrary to the claims of Mayweather Jr. It’s going to be a real fight. It’s not going to be an exhibition. That whole statement that happened, it was never an exhibition, the contract was never an exhibition, it was never signed as an exhibition,” Mathur continued.

     

    While negotiations with Mayweather remain ongoing, Pacquiao’s camp has also explored other high-profile options, including potential matchups against current champions and rising stars in the welterweight division.

     

    Among the names being considered are World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion Rolly Romero and popular boxer Ryan Garcia. However, scheduling remains a challenge, as both fighters are expected to compete in August and September, which could affect the timing of a potential Pacquiao bout.

     

    Mathur expressed confidence that both fighters remain realistic possibilities and revealed his personal interest in making a Pacquiao-Romero showdown happen.

     

    “He’s a good buddy of mine. I actually want to put the Rolly fight together, that was my plan from the beginning. I was even talking about it last year because I’m already with Manny, and Rolly is also with me, my company which is Limitless. Rolly is also a dear good friend. So that’s a very direct situation.

     

    “Ryan will fight Manny. Manny will fight Ryan. Rolly will fight Manny. Manny will fight Rolly. All of these people are on the table. It’s not an issue,” he concluded.

     

    At 47 years old, Pacquiao continues to attract significant interest from the boxing world. Although his last professional fight came in 2021 against Yordenis Ugás, the eight-division world champion has remained active through training and exhibition events as he considers another return to the sport.

     

    With multiple possibilities being discussed, Pacquiao’s next opponent remains uncertain, but his team insists that the Filipino icon will be back in action soon as he looks to add another memorable chapter to his legendary career.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Manny Pacquiao reveals why Naoya Inoue is his favorite active boxer

    Manny Pacquiao reveals why Naoya Inoue is his favorite active boxer

    Philippine boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has never been shy about sharing his admiration for fighters who display exceptional skill, discipline, and intelligence inside the ring.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in the history of the sport, Pacquiao continues to be one of boxing’s most respected figures decades after making his professional debut. The Filipino icon’s remarkable career was defined by his speed, power, relentless style, and ability to compete against elite opponents across multiple generations.

     

    Pacquiao remains the only boxer in history to win world championships in eight different weight divisions, an unprecedented achievement that highlights his versatility, longevity, and ability to adapt against fighters of different sizes and styles.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Even at 47 years old, Pacquiao continues to maintain a close connection with the sport. Aside from remaining active in boxing, he regularly follows major fights around the world and has become known for offering insight into the techniques and performances of today’s top fighters.

     

    In a recent interview, Pacquiao was asked which active boxer he enjoys watching the most, and his answer pointed to one of the biggest stars in modern boxing—Japan’s Naoya Inoue.

     

    For Pacquiao, Inoue’s combination of speed, movement, and technical ability makes him one of the most exciting fighters to watch today. The Filipino legend also revealed that he had previously shared advice with Inoue before the Japanese star became a world champion, emphasizing the importance of developing strong footwork.

     

    “I love to watch Nayoa Inoue. Yeah, Inoue, the Japanese guy. He’s fast, and he has his footwork, but I told him before when he wasn’t a champion. He asked me about what’s better to train, and I told him footwork. When you have footwork, you can control your opponent. You can properly throw your combination punches without losing balance,” Pacquiao said.

     

    Pacquiao’s praise carries significant weight given his own reputation as one of the most complete offensive fighters in boxing history. Throughout his career, the eight-division world champion relied heavily on movement, angles, and speed to overwhelm opponents, making his appreciation for Inoue’s footwork particularly meaningful.

     

    Inoue has established himself as one of the most dominant fighters of his generation and has earned comparisons among the sport’s elite. Known as “The Monster,” the Japanese boxer has built a reputation for his devastating punching power, technical precision, and ability to control the pace of a fight.

     

    The 33-year-old has captured world championships in four different weight classes and is one of only three boxers in history to become an undisputed champion in two divisions during the four-belt era, joining American star Terence Crawford and Ukrainian heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk.

     

    His accomplishments have placed him among the sport’s all-time greats, particularly after his historic run at super bantamweight. Inoue became the first and only boxer to become undisputed champion in the division, holding all four major world titles since 2023.

     

    Beyond his championship success, Inoue has also broken new ground for Japanese boxing. In 2022, he became the first Japanese fighter to reach the No. 1 spot in global boxing rankings, further cementing his status as one of the most influential athletes in the sport.

     

    Inoue most recently showcased his dominance in May when he successfully defended his undisputed super bantamweight championship against fellow Japanese star Junto Nakatani at the iconic Tokyo Dome.

     

    The highly anticipated bout saw Inoue once again demonstrate the qualities Pacquiao admired—speed, movement, accuracy, and the ability to execute combinations while maintaining balance and control. He secured a unanimous decision victory, adding another impressive performance to an already historic résumé.

     

    As boxing continues to search for its next generation of global stars, Inoue has emerged as one of the sport’s leading figures. And with the endorsement of a legend like Pacquiao, his reputation as one of boxing’s finest talents continues to grow.

     

    For Pacquiao, the qualities that make Inoue special are the same attributes that define the greatest fighters: discipline, intelligence, movement, and the ability to constantly improve. The admiration between two champions from different eras serves as another reminder of boxing’s enduring global appeal.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Manny Pacquiao names Terence Crawford as dream fight that didn’t happen

    Manny Pacquiao names Terence Crawford as dream fight that didn’t happen

    Manny Pacquiao remains as passionate about boxing as ever, and despite already cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats, the Filipino legend still finds himself reflecting on the fights that shaped his remarkable career—and one blockbuster matchup that never came to fruition.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in history and unquestionably the Philippines’ most accomplished sporting icon, Pacquiao has built a legacy few fighters can rival. The former eight-division world champion has captured titles across an unprecedented eight weight divisions, headlined some of the biggest events in boxing history, and defeated a who’s who of elite champions during a professional career spanning nearly three decades.

     

    After initially retiring, Pacquiao made his long-awaited return to professional boxing in 2025 when he challenged then-World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios. The comeback generated worldwide attention, with fans eager to see whether the Filipino superstar could once again compete at the highest level despite being well into his 40s.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Pacquiao produced a spirited performance against the younger Barrios, displaying flashes of the speed, footwork, and relentless aggression that made him one of boxing’s most exciting fighters. However, after 12 closely contested rounds, the judges scored the bout a majority draw—a verdict that sparked debate among boxing fans and analysts.

     

    Speaking in a recent interview with Vibe, Pacquiao admitted he was still surprised by the official result and maintained that he believed he had done enough to earn the victory.

     

    “That was a good fight with Mario Barrios, and I am surprised by the result. It was a draw, supposedly. It happened that way, so charge the experience and move on. People know who won the fight, even him. I know he knows. I have to move on and look forward to the future,” Pacquiao said.

     

    Despite expressing disappointment over the decision, Pacquiao made it clear that he has accepted the outcome and remains focused on what lies ahead rather than dwelling on the past.

     

    Another fight that had captured the imagination of the boxing world was a long-awaited rematch with longtime rival Floyd Mayweather Jr. Their first encounter in 2015, billed as the “Battle of the Century,” became one of the richest and most-watched events in boxing history. Although the contest fell short of fans’ lofty expectations inside the ring, speculation about a rematch continued for years.

    A second meeting appeared to be gaining momentum before plans were put on hold indefinitely due to Mayweather’s legal issues, leaving another chapter in one of boxing’s biggest rivalries unresolved.

     

    With the Mayweather rematch now unlikely to materialize anytime soon, Pacquiao was asked whether there was another dream fight that ultimately escaped him during his Hall of Fame-worthy career.

     

    Without hesitation, the Filipino legend pointed to undefeated American superstar Terence Crawford.

     

    “I think the Crawford fight. Yeah, the Crawford fight. Because Bob Arum preserved him. I’m under Top Rank promotions, and he was under Top Rank promotions before, so I would have loved to fight him. But it never happened. Bob didn’t give it to me,” he added.

     

    A showdown between Pacquiao and Crawford had long been discussed during Crawford’s rise through the welterweight ranks. At the time, many viewed it as a fascinating clash between one of boxing’s most accomplished veterans and one of its emerging pound-for-pound stars. However, despite both fighters spending time under Top Rank Promotions, negotiations never progressed into an official bout.

     

    For Pacquiao, it remains one of the biggest “what ifs” of an extraordinary career that included victories over Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, Antonio Margarito, Shane Mosley, Timothy Bradley, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manuel Marquez.

     

    Even as retirement continues to be a frequent topic surrounding his career, Pacquiao insists he still has no desire to walk away from the sport that has defined his life. More than championships or accolades, he says boxing continues to provide him with purpose, discipline, and happiness.

     

    At 47 years old, the Filipino icon continues to train regularly, maintaining the same dedication that carried him from humble beginnings in General Santos City to global superstardom.

     

    “Boxing is my passion, and that’s getting me to stay in shape, to stay physically fit. So when I’m doing that, I’m happy. When you discover boxing, how it is, and how you stay active, of course, it’s a favor and blessing from God. Strength, good health, that’s the most important thing,” Pacquiao concluded.

     

    While many athletes choose to step away once they have nothing left to prove, Pacquiao continues to be driven by his love for the sport. Whether another world title opportunity awaits or another marquee fight eventually materializes, the Filipino boxing legend has made one thing clear: as long as his passion remains, he has no plans of stepping away from the ring for good.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Sean Gibbons blasts Oscar Collazo for avoiding minimumweight unification bout with Pedro Taduran

    Sean Gibbons blasts Oscar Collazo for avoiding minimumweight unification bout with Pedro Taduran

    Pedro Taduran, the reigning IBF minimumweight world champion from the Philippines, continues to cement his standing as one of the most proven and resilient fighters in the lower weight divisions of modern boxing. Built on a foundation of relentless pressure, toughness, and ring intelligence, Taduran has developed into one of the country’s most reliable world titleholders, consistently delivering performances that underline his elite status on both the domestic and international stage.

     

    Known for his aggressive fighting style and ability to absorb punishment while maintaining forward pressure, Taduran has carved out a reputation as a difficult assignment for any opponent in the 105-pound division. His championship pedigree, combined with his experience against top-tier opposition, has kept him firmly in the conversation among the division’s most dangerous contenders.

     

    Taduran is promoted by Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, and tensions within the minimumweight division have intensified in recent weeks as discussions around potential unification bouts continue to gain traction. MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons has openly criticized reigning WBO and WBA minimumweight champion Oscar Collazo, accusing the Puerto Rican titleholder of avoiding a high-profile unification clash with the Filipino champion.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Gibbons did not hold back in his assessment of Collazo’s résumé and standing in the division, insisting that Taduran has done enough to warrant a unification fight against one of the sport’s current titleholders.

     

    “Collazo, you can’t say you’re pound-for-pound and won’t even do a unification with Pedro. He’s an embarrassment to walk around and keep saying, ‘I’m The Ring’s pound-for-pound No. 9-ranked fighter, the best at 105 pounds’. You haven’t fought anybody. You fought one Thai that was past his best, you ran from Pedro for years and his last three fights have been completely embarrassing. Pedro is ready to fight. I think Collazo should go to 112 because he has embarrassed the division,” Gibbons said in a media interaction.

     

    Gibbons further emphasized that MP Promotions has made multiple attempts to initiate discussions with both Golden Boy Promotions and Cotto Promotions regarding a potential unification bout between Taduran and Collazo. However, despite repeated efforts, no formal agreement or concrete negotiations have materialized to date, leaving the matchup in limbo.

    The promotional standoff has only added to growing frustration among fans and stakeholders who have been pushing for a clear direction in the minimumweight division, where multiple champions currently hold belts but have yet to face each other to determine undisputed supremacy.

     

    While the unification picture remains uncertain, Taduran has continued to stay active and engaged within the division. The Filipino champion was recently spotted attending the “Fist of Fury 10: The Eliminator” event at the Cebu Coliseum, where he closely observed a crucial IBF world title eliminator between China’s DianXing Zhu and Filipino contender Ian Abne.

     

    The bout carried major implications for the IBF rankings, with both fighters vying for the right to become the mandatory challenger for Taduran’s world title. After a physically demanding and tactical 12-round contest, Zhu emerged victorious via decision, securing the position as the IBF’s next mandatory challenger and formally inserting himself into Taduran’s championship picture.

     

    The result adds another layer of complexity to Taduran’s immediate future, as the IBF obligation now places Zhu in line for a potential world title opportunity. However, despite the emergence of a mandatory challenger, Taduran has made it clear that his priority remains a high-stakes unification showdown rather than a routine title defense.

     

    At the center of his ambitions is a potential clash with Puerto Rico’s Oscar Collazo, who currently holds both the WBO and WBA minimumweight world titles. A unification bout between Taduran and Collazo would carry significant implications for the division, with the winner moving closer to undisputed status at 105 pounds.

     

    For Taduran, such a fight represents not only a chance to unify belts but also an opportunity to further elevate his legacy as one of the Philippines’ premier world champions. With momentum building, mandatory challengers emerging, and promotional tensions rising, the minimumweight division now finds itself at a critical juncture where clarity and resolution are increasingly being demanded.

     

    As negotiations continue behind the scenes, Taduran remains positioned at the center of one of boxing’s most intriguing and unresolved championship scenarios, with the possibility of a defining fight still firmly on the horizon.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans. 

  • Eumir Marcial shifts focus to professional boxing, begins training camp in Japan

    Eumir Marcial shifts focus to professional boxing, begins training camp in Japan

    Eumir Marcial continues to strengthen his legacy as one of the most accomplished Filipino boxers of his generation, adding another milestone to an already decorated amateur and professional career that has spanned Olympic, world, and regional success.

     

    The 30-year-old middleweight standout recently captured his fifth Southeast Asian Games gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok, Thailand, further cementing his dominance in the regional circuit. Marcial delivered another composed and clinical performance en route to the title, extending his remarkable consistency in a competition where he has long been regarded as the Philippines’ most reliable gold-medal source in boxing.

     

    Beyond his SEA Games success, Marcial’s résumé includes a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2019 AIBA World Boxing Championships, achievements that have placed him among the elite names in Philippine boxing history. His transition from amateur standout to professional contender has only added to his growing reputation as a fighter capable of excelling on multiple stages.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

     

    Despite his continued success in the amateur ranks, Marcial is now placing greater emphasis on his professional boxing career. He has opted to shift focus away from potential participation in future multi-sport events such as the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, choosing instead to fully prepare for high-level professional bouts in the middleweight division.

     

    A key part of this transition involves relocating portions of his training camp to Tokyo, Japan, where he believes he can access stronger sparring opportunities and a more competitive training environment.

     

    “As a Filipino middleweight boxer, it is difficult to get the proper training and preparation in the Philippines because there are very few natural middleweight fighters available for quality sparring. That’s why, in order to have the best possible preparation, we need to look abroad and train in a country where we can find the right level of training environment,” Marcial said in a media interaction.

    Marcial emphasized that the move is not a reflection of local training standards but rather a strategic decision to enhance his readiness against international-level opposition, particularly in a division where physical matchups and sparring depth are crucial for development.

     

    He also acknowledged the strong support system behind his decision, expressing gratitude to his team, promoters, and national sporting institutions that continue to back his professional ambitions.

     

    “I would like to thank my support system and my promoter, Sean Gibbons, for arranging this training camp. I would also like to thank my Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) family for their continued support, as well as the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and B-Steel for their invaluable assistance,” he added.

     

    Marcial currently holds the World Boxing Council (WBC) International middleweight title, a regional championship he secured with a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares during the 50th anniversary commemoration of the “Thrilla in Manila” at the Araneta Coliseum in October 2025. The win preserved his perfect professional record, improving him to 7-0 with four knockouts and further signaling his readiness for bigger international opportunities.

     

    With his career entering a critical phase, Marcial views his current training camp in Japan as the foundation for what he hopes will be breakthrough opportunities in the global middleweight scene.

     

    “This is the beginning of my preparations for the big fights ahead, God willing. Our training camp starts here. Let’s go Tokyo, Japan,” Marcial concluded.

     

    As he balances a decorated amateur legacy with an increasingly ambitious professional path, Marcial remains one of the most closely watched Filipino athletes on the international boxing stage.

     

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.