Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Tag: Boxing

  • “Part ng boxing yan”: Filipino boxer Kenneth Llover remains positive after his first pro loss to Michael Angeletti

    “Part ng boxing yan”: Filipino boxer Kenneth Llover remains positive after his first pro loss to Michael Angeletti

    Kenneth Llover’s rise in Philippine boxing has been steady and promising, with the Cavite native carving out a reputation as one of the country’s brightest young fighters. The 23-year-old entered Saturday’s bout as the reigning Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) bantamweight champion, carrying both momentum and expectation into his most significant test to date.

     

    However, Llover’s unbeaten professional record came to an end on Saturday, June 6, after he dropped a closely contested split-decision loss to undefeated American prospect Michael Angeletti in their International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight title eliminator held at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan.

     

    The fight proved to be a tactical and hard-fought encounter from the opening bell, with both fighters trading momentum across the rounds. In the end, two judges scored the bout in favor of Angeletti, 116-111 and 115-112, while the third judge saw it differently, scoring it 115-112 for Llover. The split decision underscored how tightly contested the matchup was, with little separating the two fighters over the course of the fight.

     

    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 the setback, Llover absorbed the result with maturity, framing it as part of the natural progression of a professional boxing career rather than a defining moment of defeat. The young champion emphasized that adversity is an essential part of building resilience and long-term success in the sport.

     

    “Sa’kin naman po, yung pagkatalo is part ng boxing yan. Kumbaga yung pagkatalo natural yan sa champion, natural na pagdadaanan yang mga bagay. Diyan ka magiging matibay,” Llover said after the loss.

    He further reflected on the importance of perseverance, noting that setbacks do not define a fighter’s journey and should not deter long-term ambition or commitment to the sport.

     

    “Hindi naman lahat pagdadaanan kailangan tagumpay. Darating sa point ng buhay mo na mararanasan mong matalo. Pero di naman dahil doon, na matatalo ka, doon mo na itiigil yung career mo. Tuloy lang,” he added.

     

    Llover also took time to acknowledge his supporters, expressing gratitude to his camp, fans, and sponsors who have backed him throughout his career, including his OPBF title run and his climb through the professional ranks.

     

    “Sa mga kababayan namin sa Pilipinas at sa ArenaPlus family, maraming, maraming salamat sa inyo, sa patuloy na suporta. Hindi lang hanggang dito boxing career natin. Mas pag-iigihan pa natin. Laban lang, Pilipinas,” Llover concluded.

     

    The defeat marked the first blemish on Llover’s professional record, which now stands at 17 wins, including 12 knockouts, against one loss. Despite the setback, he remains firmly positioned among the Philippines’ top bantamweight prospects, with his performance against Angeletti demonstrating his ability to compete at an elite international level.

     

    For Angeletti, meanwhile, the victory preserved his unbeaten record at 15-0 and strengthened his position as a rising contender in the IBF bantamweight division, inching him closer to a potential world title opportunity.

     

    While the result was not what Llover and his camp had hoped for, the experience in Japan is expected to serve as a crucial learning point as he regroups, recovers, and evaluates the next steps in his career trajectory. For a young fighter still in the early stages of his professional journey, the loss may ultimately become a catalyst for further growth rather than a setback.

     

     

    👉 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 star Melvin Jerusalem loses WBC minimumweight title to Siyakholwa Kuse in rematch 

    Filipino star Melvin Jerusalem loses WBC minimumweight title to Siyakholwa Kuse in rematch 

    Filipino boxing standout Melvin Jerusalem has long been regarded as one of the Philippines’ premier pugilists, combining sharp technical ability, disciplined footwork, and a patient, tactical approach inside the ring. At 31 years old, the southpaw has built a reputation as a world-class competitor, having previously held the World Boxing Council (WBC) minimumweight crown and establishing himself among the country’s most accomplished modern fighters on the international stage.

     

    However, Jerusalem’s reign at the top came to a painful end on early Sunday morning, May 17 (Philippine Standard Time), after dropping a unanimous decision loss to South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse in their WBC minimumweight title rematch held at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.

     

    Despite showing resilience throughout the 12-round contest, Jerusalem was unable to convince the judges, who scored the bout 116-111, 116-112, and 115-111 in favor of Kuse, allowing the South African challenger to claim the world title on home soil.

     

    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 Filipino champion did, however, produce one of the fight’s defining moments when he floored Kuse in the 11th round—the only knockdown of the bout. The late surge briefly swung momentum in Jerusalem’s favor, but it ultimately proved insufficient to overturn Kuse’s early and consistent accumulation of points.

     

    A major turning point in the fight came in the third round, when an accidental clash of heads resulted in a deep cut above Jerusalem’s left eye. The injury appeared to worsen as the rounds progressed, with blood visibly affecting his vision and limiting his ability to engage comfortably in exchanges. Kuse capitalized on the damage by targeting the affected area and maintaining steady pressure throughout the championship rounds.

    Jerusalem, who arrived in South Africa nearly three weeks before the bout to complete his final preparation phase, showed no signs of making excuses in the aftermath of the defeat. Instead, he acknowledged Kuse’s performance and expressed gratitude to his supporters.

     

    “No excuses, guys. Yung mga naniniwala sa akin, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat. Hindi sa atin ngayon yung araw. Congrats kay Kuse,” Jerusalem said on social media.

     

    The loss drops Jerusalem’s professional record to 25-4 with 12 knockouts, halting his momentum in the minimumweight division and temporarily derailing his pursuit of another world title reign. For Kuse, meanwhile, the victory improves his record to 10-3-1 with four knockouts, marking the biggest win of his career to date.

     

    Jerusalem’s defeat also carries broader implications for the minimumweight division landscape. Prior to the loss, the Filipino fighter had been positioning himself for a potential high-profile unification bout with World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion Oscar Collazo, a matchup that now becomes significantly more complicated following the setback in Johannesburg.

     

    With the WBC title now out of Filipino hands, the country’s remaining world boxing champion in the division is International Boxing Federation (IBF) mini flyweight titleholder Pedro Taduran, who continues to carry the Philippines’ hopes on the global stage.

     

    Despite the disappointment, Jerusalem’s standing as one of the nation’s elite fighters remains intact, with many observers noting that his competitive showing—particularly the late knockdown and his willingness to battle through injury—reinforced his reputation as a tough, technically sound world-class contender capable of competing at the highest level.

     

     

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

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

  • Filipino champion Pedro Taduran eyes blockbuster unification fight with Oscar Collazo 

    Filipino champion Pedro Taduran eyes blockbuster unification fight with Oscar Collazo 

    Pedro Taduran, the reigning IBF minimumweight world champion from the Philippines, continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the most accomplished and battle-tested fighters in the country’s modern boxing era. Known for his aggressive style, durability, and ring intelligence, Taduran has become a consistent draw for boxing fans both locally and on the international stage, with his performances reinforcing his status among the elite in the minimumweight division.

     

    The Filipino champion was recently seen attending the “Fist of Fury 10: The Eliminator” event held at the Cebu Coliseum, where he closely followed the action in a key IBF world title eliminator featuring China’s DianXing Zhu and Filipino contender Ian Abne. The bout carried significant implications for the division, with Zhu ultimately emerging victorious after a grueling 12-round contest, earning the right to become Taduran’s mandatory challenger for the IBF crown.

     

    Despite the development of a new challenger in Zhu, Taduran made it clear that his immediate focus remains on a potential unification showdown with Puerto Rico’s Oscar Collazo, who currently holds both the WBO and WBA minimumweight world titles. A fight between Taduran and Collazo would determine supremacy in the division and potentially crown an undisputed champion at 105 pounds.

     

    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.

     

    “Sa ngayon inaayos na po yung next kong laban. Baka August or September na yung next ko na laban. Inaayos na ni Sir Sean Gibbons yung laban ko kay Collazo. Kung maayos na, si Collazo ang una kong kakalabanin. Para sa akin si Collazo may dalawang belt na hawak siya, so siya yung pipiliin ko na kalabanin,” Taduran said during the event.

     

    “Baka ngayong July babalik na ako sa U.S. Baka malagay ako sa undercard ng Pacquiao-Mayweather, kami ni Collazo,” he added.

    The 29-year-old champion has been steadily active in discussions surrounding major fights in the division, with his team reportedly working on securing the biggest possible opportunities on the international stage. Taduran’s willingness to face elite opposition underscores his ambition to unify world titles and cement his legacy in Philippine boxing history.

     

    At ringside in Cebu, Taduran carefully observed the eliminator between Zhu and Abne, analyzing styles and potential future matchups. Zhu’s victory not only elevated him into mandatory position but also introduced a new layer of intrigue to the division’s landscape, with multiple high-stakes fights now looming for the IBF champion.

     

    Should the unification bout with Collazo fail to materialize, Taduran acknowledged that a showdown with Zhu could be next on the horizon, adding further complexity to his upcoming fight schedule. Either way, the Filipino champion appears set for a defining stretch in his career, with major world title fights firmly within reach.

     

    Reflecting on the eliminator bout, Taduran praised both fighters for their toughness and technical ability, while also noting how their styles could translate into interesting matchups for him in the future.

     

    “Napakagandang laban, umabot ng 12 rounds, pareho silang matibay, lalo na si Abne, matibay din. Para sa akin, maganda yung style ng Chinese kasi pabor din siya sa style ko. Fighter kasi siya, hindi na ako hahabol sa kanya sa ring,” Pedro concluded.

     

    As negotiations continue behind the scenes, Taduran remains focused on preparation, knowing that the coming months could define his standing not only in the minimumweight division but also in Philippine boxing history. Whether it is a unification clash with Collazo or a mandatory defense against Zhu, the IBF champion is poised for another high-stakes chapter in his career.

     

     

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

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

  • Manny Pacquiao questions Floyd Mayweather’s unbeaten record; says he lost to Oscar De La Hoya 

    Manny Pacquiao questions Floyd Mayweather’s unbeaten record; says he lost to Oscar De La Hoya 

    Boxing’s most iconic modern rivalry is once again dominating global headlines, as renewed reports continue to circulate about a potential rematch between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao—nearly a decade after their historic first meeting that captivated the sport and shattered commercial records worldwide.

     

    Multiple online reports, including posts attributed to streaming platform Netflix, have fueled speculation that the two legends could face off on September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines), with the bout reportedly set to take place at the state-of-the-art Sphere. If finalized, the venue would host its first-ever professional boxing match, elevating an already highly anticipated event into a landmark moment for both combat sports and live entertainment.

     

    According to the circulating announcements, Netflix is expected to serve as the exclusive global broadcaster for the event, continuing its aggressive expansion into live sports content. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the platform reportedly framed the potential matchup as a historic crossover moment—bringing together two of the most recognizable figures in boxing history on a stage unlike anything seen before in the sport.

     

    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 renewed buzz has also reignited long-standing debates surrounding both fighters’ legacies, particularly their first encounter in 2015, widely billed as the “Fight of the Century.” That bout saw Mayweather secure a unanimous decision victory, cementing his undefeated professional record while simultaneously becoming one of the most lucrative sporting events in history.

    In the lead-up to the rumored rematch, Pacquiao has remained notably vocal in media appearances, frequently revisiting his long-standing rivalry with Mayweather. The 47-year-old Filipino boxing icon has continued to take subtle and direct shots at his former opponent, further intensifying public interest.

     

    “I think the fight with Oscar De La Hoya, he lost it. Review it. I know what boxing is, and if you review and watch the fight, Floyd lost. Very clear, so watch that,” Pacquiao said in a recent interview with Vibe.

     

    Pacquiao’s comments refer to Mayweather’s 2007 showdown with Oscar De La Hoya, a pivotal fight held in Las Vegas that helped elevate Mayweather to global superstardom. Mayweather won that contest via split decision, a result that not only added a major name to his résumé but also solidified his status as the sport’s premier pay-per-view attraction following De La Hoya’s reign as boxing’s biggest commercial draw.

     

    Mayweather, meanwhile, has yet to publicly respond in detail to the latest wave of speculation, maintaining his long-standing preference for selective engagement when it comes to exhibition and crossover fight discussions. Since retiring from professional boxing with an unblemished record, he has participated in several high-profile exhibition bouts, further blurring the lines between competitive sport and entertainment spectacle.

     

    As anticipation continues to build, questions remain over whether the proposed bout would be sanctioned as a professional contest or staged as an exhibition, a distinction that could significantly shape its competitive legitimacy. Regardless of format, the possibility of a second Mayweather–Pacquiao meeting has already succeeded in capturing global attention, reigniting debates over greatness, legacy, and unfinished business.

     

    Nearly ten years after their first encounter, the mere suggestion of a rematch underscores the enduring commercial and cultural power of both fighters. While official confirmation is still pending, the boxing world remains on alert for what could become one of the most talked-about sporting events of the decade.

     

     

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

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

  • “He is a self-proclaimed GOAT”: Manny Pacquiao says he has a better legacy than Floyd Mayweather

    “He is a self-proclaimed GOAT”: Manny Pacquiao says he has a better legacy than Floyd Mayweather

    Boxing fans around the world are once again turning their attention to a rivalry that defined an era, as reports continue to build around a potential rematch between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao nearly a decade after their historic first meeting.

     

    Multiple announcements circulating online—some attributed to Netflix—indicate that the two legends are set to face off on September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines), with the bout reportedly scheduled at the cutting-edge Sphere. If confirmed, the event would mark the first professional boxing match to be staged at the venue, adding another layer of intrigue to an already headline-grabbing spectacle.

     

    The streaming giant is also expected to carry the fight exclusively worldwide, signaling a continued push into live sports programming. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Netflix described the potential clash as a landmark moment for boxing—bringing together two of the most recognizable figures of the modern era on an unprecedented stage.

     

    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 announcement has quickly reignited global interest, reviving memories of their long-awaited 2015 showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Billed as the “Fight of the Century,” that bout saw Mayweather secure a unanimous decision victory, maintaining his undefeated record while capturing the WBA (Super), WBC, and The Ring welterweight titles. Despite breaking pay-per-view records and generating massive revenue, the fight drew mixed reactions, with some fans feeling it fell short of expectations inside the ring.

    Since then, both fighters have further cemented their legacies. Mayweather retired from professional boxing in 2017 with a flawless 50–0 record, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive tacticians in the sport’s history. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he captured 15 major world titles across five weight divisions, from super featherweight to light middleweight, and added an Olympic bronze medal from the 1996 Atlanta Games to his résumé.

     

    Pacquiao, on the other hand, built one of the most unique and decorated careers the sport has ever seen. The Filipino icon remains the only boxer in history to win world championships in eight different weight divisions, a feat that underscores both his versatility and longevity. Known for his explosive southpaw style and relentless pace, Pacquiao has consistently competed at the highest level across multiple eras, further enhancing his standing among boxing’s all-time greats.

     

    In the lead-up to the reported rematch, Pacquiao has already added fuel to the narrative by weighing in on the ongoing debate surrounding boxing’s greatest of all time. Speaking on “Inside the Ring,” the 47-year-old did not hold back when discussing Mayweather’s legacy.

     

    “He is a self-proclaimed GOAT. He cannot claim that he is the only undefeated fighter who retired. There’s at least more than 15 fighters that retired undefeated. But I can claim that I’m the only eight-division world champion in history. And I’m the only fighter that became a world champion in four different decades,” Pacquiao said.

     

    Pacquiao’s credentials remain unparalleled in several respects. He is the only fighter to hold world titles across four decades—the 1990s, 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s—and, in July 2019, became the oldest welterweight world champion in history at age 40. He also stands as the first boxer to achieve recognized four-time welterweight champion status, further highlighting the breadth of his accomplishments.

     

    As anticipation continues to grow, the prospect of a Mayweather–Pacquiao rematch—regardless of whether it takes the form of an exhibition or official contest—has already succeeded in reigniting debate about legacy, longevity, and greatness. While it remains to be seen whether a second meeting can replicate the global impact of their first encounter, one thing is certain: the rivalry between Mayweather and Pacquiao still holds a powerful grip on the boxing world.

     

     

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

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

  • “Crawford beats Mayweather in their prime”: Manny Pacquiao’s comments fuel new GOAT argument in boxing 

    “Crawford beats Mayweather in their prime”: Manny Pacquiao’s comments fuel new GOAT argument in boxing 

    Boxing fans across the globe are bracing for what is being billed as one of the most high-profile exhibition-style events in recent memory, with reports indicating that Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao are set to meet once again in a rematch nearly a decade after their first iconic showdown.

     

    According to multiple announcements circulating on social media and attributed to Netflix, the two all-time greats will square off on September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines), with the bout scheduled to take place at the technologically advanced Sphere venue. The streaming giant is expected to carry the event exclusively worldwide, marking yet another major push into live sports entertainment.

     

    Netflix confirmed the news in a post on X (formerly Twitter), describing the matchup as a historic occasion: the first professional boxing event to be staged at the Sphere, featuring two of the most recognizable names in the sport’s modern era. The announcement quickly sparked global debate and excitement, as fans revisited one of boxing’s most polarizing and commercially successful rivalries.

     

    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 upcoming fight revisits the long-standing narrative between Mayweather and Pacquiao, whose first meeting in 2015 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas was promoted as the “Fight of the Century.” That bout, years in the making due to prolonged negotiations, ultimately saw Mayweather claim a unanimous decision victory to preserve his perfect record. The fight shattered pay-per-view records but also drew criticism from some fans who felt the action did not fully live up to its massive hype.

     

    Mayweather, who retired from professional boxing in 2017 with a pristine 50–0 record, remains one of the sport’s most accomplished defensive technicians. Over the course of his career, he captured 15 major world championships across five weight divisions, ranging from super featherweight to light middleweight. His résumé also includes an Olympic bronze medal from the 1996 Atlanta Games in the featherweight division, underscoring a decorated career that spanned more than two decades.

     

    Pacquiao, meanwhile, carved out his own legendary path as one of boxing’s most dynamic and versatile fighters. Known for his explosive southpaw style and relentless pace, the Filipino icon became the only boxer in history to win world titles in eight different weight divisions. His career has been defined not only by championship success but also by his longevity and ability to compete at elite level across multiple eras of the sport.

    In the lead-up to the reported rematch, Pacquiao has already begun to stir conversation with his assessment of modern greats and past opponents. In a recent appearance on “Inside the Ring,” the 47-year-old veteran suggested that undefeated American star Terence Crawford would have posed significant stylistic problems for Mayweather had both fighters met in their primes.

     

    “I think Crawford beats Mayweather if they both fought in their prime. He has the advantage as a southpaw,” Pacquiao said. “I saw Crawford as a southpaw; he mastered it. He knows how to handle his advantage, to maximize his advantage, against an orthodox fighter.”

     

    The remarks add another layer of intrigue to the broader discussion surrounding generational greatness in boxing, particularly as fans continue to debate how fighters from different eras would match up stylistically.

     

    Crawford, who retired in 2025 with an unblemished 42–0 record, is widely regarded as one of the most complete fighters of his generation. His career included world titles in five weight classes, from lightweight to super middleweight, and he also achieved the rare distinction of becoming a three-division undisputed champion. Despite frequent comparisons to Mayweather from fans and pundits, Crawford has consistently expressed admiration rather than rivalry toward the former pound-for-pound king.

     

    “Man, listen. That’s the GOAT,” Crawford said of Mayweather in a previous interview. “Mayweather is one of the GOATs. I have nothing but the utmost respect for Mayweather. I would never compare myself to Mayweather. He’s the greatest of his era, and I’m the greatest of my era.”

     

    He has also pushed back against narratives that attempt to diminish Mayweather’s accomplishments or pit modern fighters against him in hypothetical matchups.

     

    “I don’t understand why, especially our people, hate on Mayweather so much. He made so much history for us. He paved the way for me to be where I’m at,” Crawford added. “I don’t know why a lot of people always try to tarnish his career or want me to be like, ‘I’ll knock Mayweather out’ or always try to compare us.”

     

    As anticipation builds, the reported Mayweather–Pacquiao rematch—regardless of its format—has already reignited discussions about legacy, longevity, and the enduring appeal of two of boxing’s most influential figures. Whether the event will recapture the global attention of their first meeting remains to be seen, but it has already succeeded in putting the sport’s biggest historical rivalry back in the spotlight.

     

     

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

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

  • Manny Pacquiao calls for stronger global investment in youth sports in United Nations speech

    Manny Pacquiao calls for stronger global investment in youth sports in United Nations speech

    Philippine boxing legend Manny Pacquiao continues to expand his influence far beyond the ring, this time taking center stage at a United Nations session in New York City, where he delivered a keynote address on the power of sport in shaping young lives and promoting peace.

     

    Widely regarded as the greatest athlete to emerge from the Philippines—and one of the most accomplished boxers in history—Pacquiao was invited to speak at the UN event titled “Sports for Youth Empowerment and Prevention of Violent Extremism.” The session highlighted how sports can serve as a powerful tool in addressing social issues, fostering unity, and creating opportunities for youth in vulnerable communities.

     

    During his address, Pacquiao reflected on his personal journey from extreme poverty in General Santos City to becoming an eight-division world champion and global sporting icon. He emphasized how discipline, structure, and hope—instilled through boxing—transformed the trajectory of his life.

     

    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.

     

    Growing up in hardship, Pacquiao said sport became his pathway out of poverty and a foundation for personal growth. His story, he noted, is not unique, as many young people around the world face similar struggles and are in need of guidance and opportunity.

     

    At the core of his message was a call for stronger global investment in youth sports programs, particularly in underserved and conflict-affected regions. Pacquiao highlighted examples from the Philippines, including community-based sports initiatives in Mindanao, where organized athletic programs have helped promote peace, trust, and social cohesion in areas historically affected by conflict.

    “Today, there are many young people around the world waiting for that same opportunity. They need support. They need guidance. They need a path forward. We must not fail them,” Pacquiao said.

     

    He further urged world leaders and institutions to recognize sport as more than competition, but as a vehicle for development, education, and long-term peacebuilding.

     

    “Let us work together to strengthen the role of sport as a tool for peace, development, and the prevention of violence and extremism. Let us invest in our youth and expand opportunities for them to grow and succeed. And let us ensure that every young person, no matter where they come from, has the chance to choose a better future,” he added.

     

    Pacquiao’s appearance at the UN was made possible through an invitation from the Philippine Mission to the United Nations. He previously served as a UN Games Ambassador, a role that further solidified his advocacy for youth development and sports diplomacy on the global stage.

     

    Beyond his political and philanthropic work, Pacquiao remains a towering figure in global sport. His achievements in boxing—spanning multiple weight divisions and decades of dominance—have earned him a place among the all-time greats. Yet, as his latest UN appearance shows, his legacy continues to evolve well beyond championship belts and historic fights.

     

    From world titles to global advocacy, Pacquiao’s message remains consistent: sport has the power to change lives, and every young person deserves the chance to discover that path.

     

     

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

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

  • “Make him sign first”: Manny Pacquiao sets conditions for rematch with Floyd Mayweather

    “Make him sign first”: Manny Pacquiao sets conditions for rematch with Floyd Mayweather

    Boxing fans around the world now have a date to mark on their calendars. Nearly a decade after their first historic encounter at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao are reportedly set to face off once again in a highly anticipated rematch of the iconic “Battle of the Century.”

     

    The welterweight showdown is scheduled for September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines) at the Sphere, with Netflix set to stream the event exclusively, the streaming giant announced.

     

    “Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao. Two of the greatest icons in boxing history will meet again in the first-ever professional boxing match at Sphere in Las Vegas. Saturday, September 19. LIVE globally only on Netflix,” Netflix posted on X (formerly Twitter), generating a flurry of excitement among fans worldwide.

     

    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 the announcement, uncertainty remains surrounding the fight’s official status. Pacquiao confirmed in a recent media interaction that Mayweather has yet to sign the contract, fueling questions about whether the rematch will be a professional bout or an exhibition.

     

    “Make him sign first. Then I will sign. I know he knows that the contract he signed is for a real fight. That’s how he got the advances from Netflix and the lender,” Pacquiao said, emphasizing that he will only commit once Mayweather’s agreement is finalized.

     

    “There’s no reason for him to cancel it. If he does, that’s his right, but he will face a lot of problems: from Netflix, from event organizers and sponsors, MP Promotions. That’s why for this fight, I made sure he signs first—based on my experience before,” he added.

    Pacquiao’s cautious approach stems from prior experiences with the American superstar. Between 2010 and 2015, Pacquiao signed multiple contracts for fights with Mayweather that never materialized despite repeated assurances from Mayweather’s camp.

     

    “Before the previous fight, we were dealing with him for like eight years. There were so many promises, and I think of all the times I signed a contract thinking that was the one. That was at least five years, with a lot of alibis. Him still changing his mind—you need to honor your commitment. This time, there’s no reason for alibis or excuses,” Pacquiao said.

     

    The eight-division world champion also stressed that he does not see the need for personal calls or meetings with Mayweather regarding the fight. Pacquiao remains confident that alternative plans are available should Mayweather eventually back out.

     

    “There’s no need for me to say anything because he already signed the contract. What for? I’m not angry, but that’s not right to cancel the fight. You have the right to cancel the fight, but you have a lot of consequences to face,” he said.

     

    “We have no problem with that because we have lots of options. Netflix is always there. September 19 is always there. Plan B, Plan C, a lot of options,” Pacquiao added.

     

    Although he officially retired in 2021 following a loss to Yordenis Ugas, Pacquiao has since returned to the ring. His recent draw against Mario Barrios last year and an upcoming exhibition bout against Ruslan Provodnikov on April 18 are seen as potential tune-ups ahead of a showdown with Mayweather.

     

    Meanwhile, Mayweather has not fought professionally since his 2017 crossover bout with Conor McGregor, though he has remained active in high-profile exhibition matches around the globe.

    Until official details are finalized, the rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao is shaping up to be more than a fight—it is a clash of legends, legacy, and expectations, with the stakes extending beyond the ring as the meaning of the bout itself remains under debate.

     

     

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

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

  • Unbeaten star Carl Jammes Martin returns to the ring against Carlo Demecillo in Taguig

    Unbeaten star Carl Jammes Martin returns to the ring against Carlo Demecillo in Taguig

    Rising Filipino boxer Carl Jammes Martin continues to cement his status as one of the country’s brightest young prospects, with his unbeaten record and growing list of accomplishments placing him firmly on the radar of the international boxing scene. The reigning WBC Asia super bantamweight champion has steadily built a reputation as a relentless and disciplined fighter, combining power and precision to dominate his division.

     

    The 26-year-old southpaw is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ring for the first time this year, as he takes on fellow Filipino Carlo Demecillo of Cebu. The bout is scheduled to take place at the Philippine Marine Corps facility in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig, providing Martin with another opportunity to showcase his skills in front of a home crowd eager to see his continued rise.

     

    In the lead-up to the fight, Martin appeared alongside his father and head trainer Abel Martin at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum, held at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) media room on Tuesday, April 7. During the session, Martin made it clear that his team is approaching the upcoming bout with a long-term objective in mind, treating it as a crucial stepping stone toward a world title opportunity.

     

    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 whole team is treating this as a title eliminator so that we will have a chance to be ready to fight for the world title,” Martin said.

     

    The mindset reflects not only confidence in his current form but also a calculated approach to his career progression. Despite his rapid ascent and spotless record, Martin and his camp remain grounded, choosing to prioritize proper preparation over rushing into high-stakes fights prematurely.

    His father, Abel, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing patience and readiness as key factors in their journey toward a potential world championship bout.

     

    “We’re not in a hurry. It’s hard to be in a hurry and don’t know what to expect. I hope it won’t take long and we will be given the chance to vie in a world title fight this year,” he added.

     

    Martin enters the fight with an unblemished professional record of 20 wins with no losses, an impressive slate made even more remarkable by the fact that all 20 victories have come by way of knockout. His perfect knockout ratio underscores his reputation as a dangerous finisher, capable of ending fights at any moment.

     

    He was last seen in action in October at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Thailand’s Aran Dipaen. The bout was part of the 50th-anniversary celebration of the historic Thrilla in Manila, adding further significance to his performance on a commemorative card honoring one of boxing’s most iconic events.

     

    Beyond his in-ring success, Martin recently reaffirmed his commitment to MP Promotions, the promotional outfit founded by eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. The renewed partnership is expected to provide Martin with greater exposure and opportunities on the global stage as he inches closer to a world title shot.

     

    Currently ranked No. 2 in the world by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Martin is widely viewed as a legitimate contender poised to challenge for a championship in the near future. With his combination of youth, power, and disciplined guidance from his team, the upcoming bout against Demecillo could serve as another crucial step toward fulfilling his ambition of becoming a world champion.

     

    As expectations continue to rise, all eyes will be on Martin as he looks to maintain his perfect record and move one step closer to boxing’s biggest stage.

     

     

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

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

  • Filipino star Pedro Taduran bounces back to retain IBF belt, eyes Oscar Collazo showdown

    Filipino star Pedro Taduran bounces back to retain IBF belt, eyes Oscar Collazo showdown

    Pedro Taduran, the Philippines’ reigning IBF minimumweight champion, continues to cement his reputation as one of the country’s premier pugilists, delivering performances that captivate boxing fans both at home and abroad.

     

    Taduran once again showcased his skill, heart, and tactical intelligence on the international stage, successfully defending his crown against Mexico’s Gustavo Perez Alvarez at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. The bout ended in the seventh round when Taduran’s precise punching and relentless pressure forced the referee to stop the fight, securing another emphatic victory for the Filipino champion.

     

    The fight began with Alvarez taking the early initiative, using his speed and combination punching to pressure Taduran in the first two rounds. Alvarez’s sharp one-two combos and aggressive movement seemed to put Taduran on the defensive, and his trainer Carl Penalosa admitted that if his fighter did not adjust, the bout could have ended unfavorably.

     

    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.

     

    “I told myself that if the Mexican gets to do what he did in the first two rounds, Pedro would lose the title,” Penalosa said in a post-fight interview, highlighting the tense early moments that tested Taduran’s composure.

     

    But the Filipino champion remained calm and methodical. By the third round, Taduran had begun turning the tide, landing sharp straight punches and powerful hooks that rocked Alvarez. His counterattacks culminated in four knockdowns, demonstrating his accuracy, timing, and ability to capitalize on his opponent’s mistakes. Taduran’s strategic shift and power ultimately led to a stoppage in the seventh round, allowing him to retain his IBF minimumweight crown with authority.

    “I felt that I could put him down when I hurt him with a body blow in the third. I always knew that I would catch him sooner or later,” Taduran said after the fight, reflecting on his patient and calculated approach inside the ring.

     

    The victory marked a significant milestone in Taduran’s career. The Libon, Albay native improved his professional record to 20-4-1, with 14 wins coming by knockout, while handing Alvarez only his second defeat in 18 professional bouts. The win not only solidifies Taduran’s position atop the IBF minimumweight division but also demonstrates his continued evolution as a world-class fighter capable of handling pressure and adversity.

     

    After the fight, Taduran indicated he would take a short break of two to three weeks to celebrate his victory and recover before resuming his training regimen. “After that, I will be doing some running again. Not exactly the start of training camp, but I will make sure that I do not gain too much weight,” he explained, signaling his focus on maintaining peak conditioning for future fights.

     

    Looking ahead, Taduran’s team is already planning for high-stakes matchups. Sean Gibbons, president of Manny Pacquiao MP Promotions, who promotes Taduran, is targeting a unification bout against Puerto Rico’s Oscar Collazo. Collazo currently holds the WBO and WBA minimumweight titles, and Taduran has publicly called for a clash to determine the undisputed king of the division.

     

    “Let’s go. Let’s unify the titles so we can determine who is the best in the division,” Taduran declared, showing his ambition and confidence as he looks to elevate his name further on the global stage.

     

    With his combination of technical skill, knockout power, and resilience, Pedro Taduran continues to build a legacy as one of the Philippines’ finest boxing talents, thrilling fans while steadily positioning himself for bigger fights and potential unification glory.

     

     

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

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