Chance to get even

By Edri K. Aznar

Z GORRES may have a chance to avenge his earlier controversial loss to World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight champion Fernando Montiel as a possible rematch between both fighters has been brewing lately.

“There is a possibility that Z will be in a title fight with Montiel,” said ALA Promotions president Michael Aldguer. “We’re looking at that angle,” he added.
Gorres lost to Montiel via split decision in their world title fight in 2007 in Cebu City.

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Aldeguer will get a chance to confirm this report when he talks with Top Rank in two weeks. The young promoter will be flying to the US for the Nov. 13 fight of Gorres.
Gorres was supposed to fight Eric Morel for the interim WBO bantamweight title but the fight never materialized.

Although nothing has been confirmed as of now, Aldeguer is optimistic that a huge fight is in store for Gorres next year.

The 27-year-old Gorres is scheduled to join the “Pinoy Power 3” fight card, along with Filipino world champion Nonito Donaire Jr. and fellow ALA boy Mark Jason Melligen, on Feb. 13 in Las Vegas if he gets past Luis Melendez in their 10-round bout on Nov. 13 at the House of Blues at Mandalay Bay.

“He knows that to go to Montiel, he has to go through Melendez,” said Aldeguer. “Z is very prepared and confident because he knows what’s at stake. He’s been dreaming of a Montiel fight.”

Aldeguer believes the 29-year-old Melendez is formidable foe and they won’t be taking him lightly.

“We have watched the video (of Melendez) and we already have a battle plan. Z knows that he will be facing a dangerous opponent. Melendez can take a punch and also packs a punch. Z knows he has to win and in order for him to win he should fight his fight,” said Aldeguer.

Montiel made a mistake of fighting Melendez’s style in their 2007 battle as he was knocked down in the seventh round after engaging the heavy-handed Columbian in a slugfest.

However, Montiel still won the fight after stopping Melendez in the final round of their 12-round battle for the WBO super flyweight title.

Also seeing action on the same card is up-and-coming junior welterweight Melligen and veteran journeyman Federico Catubay.

Melligen will face Mexican knockout artist Michel Rosales, while Catubay will be in an International Boxing Federation super flyweight title eliminator against Juan Alberto Rosas of Mexico.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on November 6, 2009.

Young Casimero preps for title fight

By Edri K. Aznar

ALL systems are go for Jhonreil Casimero’s world title fight on Dec. 19 in Nicaragua as his and his team’s visa was approved yesterday.

“Team Casimero secured a visa today. All the plans are already a go,” SGG Promotions promoter Sammy Gello-ani told Sun.Star Cebu yesterday.

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Casimero is up against former world champion Cesar Canchila for the interim World Boxing Organization (WBO) light flyweight title.

Although an underdog with less than half the fight experience of Canchila (28-22 KOs), Gello-ani is optimistic that the undefeated Casimero (13-0 7 KOs) will mirror the feat of 19-year-old Marvin Sonsona.

“I always believe in fighters who have power and talent. And if you prepare them really well, then they can win a world title. I’m confident that Casimero will win the world title,” said Gello-ani.

Sonsona captured the WBO super flyweight title after an upset unanimous decision victory over veteran champion Jose Lopez last September in Canada.
Sonsona’s victory came just in his 14th fight and first outside of the Philippines.

Just like the young champion, it will be Casimero’s first fight outside the country.

“There has been good development in his training. I see something in his progress,” said Gello-ani, who handles Casimero’s career.

Casimero has been training at the IPI Gym in Mandaue City where he has been given much needed pointers by Nonito Donaire Sr.

Casimero and his team will be leaving for the US in the last week of November. They will continue training there in Donaire’s Gym in San Francisco before flying to Nicaragua two weeks before the fight.

Casimero hasn’t fought outside the Philippines and hasn’t been in a world title battle unlike his Colombian opponent.

However, Gello-ani doesn’t see this as a setback for the 19-year-old up-and-coming Cebuano fighter.

“That’s why we are training in Nicaragua so that he will be at ease. It’s one way of making him comfortable,” he said.

Casimero will be training in the same gym in Nicaragua where undefeated World Boxing Association mini-flyweight champion Roman Gonzales trains.

Casimero last fought on May 28 and scored an eighth-round knockout against Ardin Diale for the WBO Asia-Pacific light flyweight title.

Boxing: Perez captures IBF bantamweight title

LAS VEGAS, Nevada: Colombia's Yonnhy Perez seized the International Boxing Federation bantamweight title, dethroning Ghana's Joseph Agbeko with a unanimous 12-round decision.

Perez emerged from the action-packed bout still unbeaten, improving to 20-0 with 14 wins inside the distance.

He was credited with a knockdown late in the 10th round, sending Agbeko to the canvas when Agbeko had turned away to complain to referee Robert Byrd about a head-butt.

"I didn't see whether it was a head butt or a punch, therefore I had to rule it was from a punch," Byrd said.

Two of the ringside judges scored the bout 117-110 for Perez, while a third saw it 116-111.

Buoyed by the knockdown, Perez poured on the pressure in the last two rounds.

"I knew I was winning the rounds, and I deserved to get the victory," Perez said. "I trained to throw a lot of punches. I know Agbeko likes to throw a lot of punches, so I knew I had to be better conditioned. All the hard work and preparation paid off."

Agbeko, who was making his third defence of a title he won two years ago, fell to 27-2 with 22 knockouts. He said the 10th round was the key to a contest that featured furious action from both fighters from the opening round.

"He head-butted me in round 10 and I didn't think that was fair," Agbeko said. "I thought I was fighting well toward that point. Perez seemed energised and I stayed the same."

Perez called the victory "a dream come true."

"I don't think he was in good shape. I think he went down to catch his breath," he said of the controversial knockdown. "I felt I was more consistent, more active and I pressed the fight throughout."

On the same card, Mexico's Antonio DeMarco dominated Nicaragua's Jose Alfaro en route to a 10th-round technical knockout in a fight for the World Boxing Council interim lightweight title.

Referee Joe Cortez stopped the fight at the 2:07 mark of the round after DeMarco knocked down Alfaro twice.

Alfaro beat the count both times, but as DeMarco continued to press, Alfaro took a knee and Cortez called a halt.

"It's impossible to describe the feeling I have inside me right now," DeMarco said. "This is the second happiest day of my life. Only the birth of my daughter comes first."

The victory put DeMarco in line to challenge unbeaten WBC lightweight champion Edwin Valero of Venezuela.


- AFP/so

Think on your feet: Gorres, Melligen told

By Edri K. Aznar

ALA stalwarts Z Gorres and Mark Jason Melligen need to fight intelligently, in order to win their Nov. 14 bouts, according to their promoter ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer.

Gorres will face a hard-hitting former world title contender Luis Melendez in the main event set on the eve of the Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto war, while Melligen is trading leathers with knockout artist Michel Rosales.

A lot is at stake for both Gorres and Melligen in these fights because a win could impress their American promoter, Top Rank, and propel them to bigger fights in the US.

“It is very important for them to win in these tough fights,” said Aldeguer.

Gorres is being groomed to battle for the interim World Boxing Organization bantamweight title against Eric Morel, while Melligen will be given tougher opposition for a future world title shot.

Both fighters are already scheduled to see action in the third installment of the “Pinoy Power” series, which is tentatively scheduled on Feb. 13.

According to Aldeguer, Melendez is a tough nut to crack and can pack a punch with his brawling style of fighting.

“This guy Melendez can fight. He’s strong,” said Aldeguer. “Z shouldn’t engage and go toe-to-toe with this guy. Melendez can punch and can take a punch,” he added.

In 2007, Melendez fought then WBO super flyweight title-holder Fernan-do Montiel.

Melendez knocked down Montiel in the seventh round of that fight after the Mexican world champion decided to engage in a slugfest.

However, Montiel knock-ed out the tough Columbian in the 12th round.

“Gorres should fight his fight. He shouldn’t go for the knockout because it’ll just come.

That was Montiel’s mistake when he got knocked down,” said Aldeguer.

On the other hand, Aldegeur said that Melligen should use his speed and his footwork to outbox the taller Rosales in their 10-round light welterweight bout.

“Rosales can fight and he is taller. Mark should use his jabs and combos and move in and out,” he said.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 29, 2009.

Sonsona cool on title defense

WORLD Boxing Organization super flyweight Marvin Sonsona is brimming with confidence for his fist title defense on Nov. 21 against Alejandro Hernandez at the Casino Rama in Ontario, Canada.

Even at 19, Sonsona displayed his maturity with his will to win against veteran fighter Jose Lopez in the biggest fight of his young boxing career. Now in his upcoming battle with Hernandez, he still has the same confidence that brought him a world title strap.

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“This time he is more confident in his upcoming fight but he still isn’t underestimating his opponent,” said SGG Promotions big boss Sammy Gello-ani.

Rank

Although Hernandez’s record isn’t that striking with 22 wins, seven losses and a draw with 11 knockouts, he isn’t a patsy as he has already fought for a world title against WBO flyweight king Omar Narvaez and he also possesses a world-class chin as he has never been knocked out in his career. He is also ranked No. 15 by the WBO in the super flyweight ratings.

Sonsona has moved his training camp from the Yani Sta. Maria Gym in Talisay City to the IPI Gym in Mandaue City.

“It is more comfortable here,” said Gello-ani.

Sparring

Sonsona has been sparring six rounds with Braveheart fighter Richard Betos and other IPI mainstays.

Also training alongside Sonsona are fighters Ciso Morales, Federico Catubay and Jhonreil Casimiro.

The undefeated Morales is slated in the same card as Sonsona against Miguel Angel Gonzalez Piedras, Catubay is scheduled for an International Boxing Federation junior bantamweight eliminator on Nov. 13and Casimiro is facing Cesar Canchilla for the interim WBO light flyweight crown on Dec. 12. (EKA)


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 28, 2009.

Teen in world title clash

By Edri K. Aznar



ANOTHER Filipino youngster will have a shot at greatness as 19-year-old undefeated Jhonreil Casimiro will take on Columbian Cesar Canchilla for the interim World Boxing Organization junior flyweight belt on Dec. 12.

SGG first gave 19-year-old Marvin Sonsona a shot at a world title and he won against Jose Lopez. Now, SGG is giving another young boxer the same chance.

The only thing hindering Casimiro’s path to greatness is Canchilla, who used to hold the interim World Boxing Association light flyweight belt.

Canchilla gave world champion Giovanni Segura the first blotch of his record with a 12-round unanimous decision in their first fight last year.

Canchilla was later dethroned from his WBA title after Segura stopped him in the fourth round of their rematch last March.

“He (Casimiro) is a mature fighter. I’m confident that he is ready for a world championship fight,” Gello-ani told Sun.Star Cebu in an interview yesterday.

Although Canchilla has an impressive record of 28 wins and two losses with 22 knockouts, Gello-ani is confident his ward will pull off an upset just like what Sonsona did to Lopez last month.

“Casimiro is hungry for a world title. He has the power and the skills to win. Although Canchilla is a former world champion, I’m expecting for an upset,” said Gello-ani.

The Mandaue-based boxer Casimiro is undefeated with 13 wins and seven knockouts.

Just like Sonsona, his world title shot is his first fight outside the Philippines.

Casimiro is ranked No.4 in the WBO while Canchilla is rated second. The winner of the bout will have a chance to fight undefeated WBO junior flyweight titleholder Ivan Calderon.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 27, 2009.

Tinampay stakes crown vs Nazareno

MANILA, Philippines - Arniel Tinampay stakes his Philippine welterweight title against top contender Dan Nazareno Jr. tomorrow in the main event of a special nine-fight boxing card at the Filinvest Housing Covered Court in Alabang, Muntinlupa.

Dubbed “Muntinlupa Slugfest,” the event is a rematch of their 147-pound showdown held early this year won by the 25-year old Tinampay by unanimous decision.

Tinampay represents the Montemayor boxing stable in Pasig City, while Nazareno comes from the Wild Card boxing gym in Paranñaque, now renamed as the Rod Nazario boxing gym in memory of the late boxing manager and promoter.

Mayor Aldrin San Pedro is sponsoring the show in cooperation with D.S. Almario boxing promotions and the weekly program Rod Nazario’s In This Corner.

Rod Nazario’s In This Corner will show the entire card for five consecutive weeks every Sunday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. over NBN-4.

In the supporting event, Ardin Diale (D.S. Almario stable), the country’s No. 7 light-flyweight contender, takes on Rodel Quilaton (SGG stable-Cebu) in a 10-round bout.

Boom Boom wants revenge

MANILA, Philippines - Fresh from demolishing Indonesia’s Maragin Marbun, newly crowned interim WBC International featherweight champion Rey (Boom Boom) Bautista said recently his dream is to avenge his first round knockout loss to Daniel Ponce de Leon and he’s even willing to face the Mexican in a rematch without pay.

But ALA Boxing Gym owner Tony Aldeguer said he’s holding Bautista back from rushing into a return bout against the former WBO superbantamweight champion who decisioned Gerry Peñalosa in 2007.

“Ponce de Leon is Boom Boom’s main target,” said Aldeguer. “Like Boom Boom, Ponce de Leon is now fighting as a featherweight. That’s Boom Boom’s dream – to avenge his defeat to Ponce de Leon whom he fought with pain in his left hand. He’s learned a lot since losing that fight. It’ll be a big deal to bring Ponce de Leon to Manila or Cebu for a fight but if we can get sponsors to support the promotion, I think it can be done.”

Another fighter in Bautista’s radar is Mexico’s Heriberto Ruiz, the only other fighter to beat him. Ruiz, 32, scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Bautista in Las Vegas last November. After the fight, Bautista revealed he felt pain in his left hand that was later found with a fractured scaphoid. He underwent surgery to repair the damage last February and orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Tammy de los Reyes grafted a bone taken from the hip and inserted a screw in his left wrist during the delicate operation.

Ruiz has also moved to the featherweight division and is booked to face Jackson Asiku in Australia on Nov. 6. He’s coming off a third round knockout over Cristobal Teran in Sonora last June. Ruiz’ record is 42-8-2, with 24 KOs compared to Ponce de Leon’s mark of 37-2, with 31 KOs.

Aldeguer said he plans two more fights for Bautista before unleashing his fury on the likes of Ruiz or Ponce de Leon.

Bautista is pencilled to battle WBC International featherweight titleholder Rachamongkol Sor Pleonchit of Thailand in his next fight, which will likely be three months from now. Rachamongkol was supposed to be Bautista’s opponent at the Waterfront Hotel ballroom last Friday but the Thai backed out because of a training injury. Marbun was brought in as his replacement.

Rachamongkol, 26, won the vacant WBC International crown by stopping In Suk Song in Osan City, South Korea, last June. His record is 8-1, with five KOs. He was once halted by Filipino Ariel Delgado two years ago.

Bautista said he’s comfortable fighting at 126 pounds and while he’ll take on anyone his manager (Aldeguer’s son Michael) puts in front of him, he admitted a craving for Ruiz and Ponce de Leon.

“My confidence is back because my left hand is okay again,” said Bautista. “I’m not in a hurry for another world title fight. I’m still young (23). I just have to work hard in the gym. Discipline is important. I’ll fight anyone Sir Michael tells me to fight, anywhere, anytime. I’ll just wait for my time. Of course, I’m always thinking of Ruiz and Ponce de Leon because they’re the only ones who have beaten me. I want to pay them back for what they did to me.”

Against Marbun, Bautista used his left more than his right to set up the Indonesian for the kill. Marbun went down twice – once in the fourth round – before referee Bruce McTavish stepped in to halt the carnage at 1:25 of the seventh. Bautista did most of the damage with his left. But while he showed improvement in his stand-up defense holding both hands high, Bautista still had the tendency to leave himself open for counters when moving in. He finished the fight with cuts in the corner and under his right eye.

Bautista was ahead in the three judges’ scorecards when the fight was stopped. Teddy Alivio had it 59-55, Salven Lagumbay 58-55 and Edward Ligas 57-56. The win raised Bautista’s record to 27-2, with 20 KOs. The loss dropped Marbun’s mark to 19-6-1, with 7 KOs.

In the undercard, superflyweight Marjun Yap scored a technical knockout win when veteran Pramunsak Posuwan of Thailand retired with cramps in the left leg at the start of the 10th round. Yap, 20, led in two of the three judges scorecards at the time of Posuwan’s surrender. Ligas saw it 86-85 and Edgar Olalo, 87-84 for Yap while Lagumbay scored it 86-85 for the Thai. Posuwan, 40, is a two-time Olympian who once fought Jose (Carita) Lopez for the WBO 115-pound title.

In other tenners, lightweight Czar Amonsot pounded out a unanimous decision over Thailand-based Jesus Muzaka Singwancha of the Congo and another lightweight Jason Pagara beat Thailand’s Decha Kokiet-Gym also via a unanimous verdict.

Once hailed as Manny Pacquiao’s heir apparent, Bautista faces an uphill climb back to the top. He was the WBO’s No. 1 superbantamweight contender two years ago and fans thought he was Pacquiao’s second coming. But Bautista lost his focus with all the hype. He fought recklessly against Ponce de Leon and paid dearly for it. Bautista was too proud to disclose the pain in his left hand, a throbbing that came from sparring with Peñalosa in preparing for Ponce de Leon. He continued to fight, not wanting to let the fans down - and that, too, he paid for dearly.

Now, Bautista appears to have mellowed. He’s become more mature in his outlook. Bautista realizes he’s not Superman and certainly not in Pacquiao’s class - at least, for the moment. Trouncing Marbun convincingly was a big first step. Bautista has a long way to go before winning a world title with two major roadblocks looming as obstacles. The road blocks are personified by Ruiz and Ponce de Leon.

Gorres to fight Melendez

By Edri K. Aznar

ALA boy Z Gorres is up for a dangerous assignment as he faces Columbian knockout artist Luis Melendez on Nov. 13 at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

Gorres has to hurdle past Melendez to get a possible World Boxing Organization bantamweight title fight next year with No.1 contender Eric Morel, which was mandated by WBO.

“This was an opponent that we expected. He’s a strong opponent.

His record speaks for itself,” ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer told Sun.Star Cebu.

The 29-year-old Melendez has a record of 26-3-1 with 21 knockouts. He knocked down Fernando Montiel for the WBO super flyweight champion in 2007, the same year Gorres lost a controversial split decision in Cebu City.

“Melendez had a good fight with Montiel. He knocked down Montiel but was unfortunately knocked out in the 12th round,” said Aldeguer.

Gorres is training rigidly at the Wild Card Gym in California, under Edito Villamor, in his debut as a Top Rank fighter.

“It will be a tough fight. This guy’s a puncher, a KO artist.

This guy can punch. He is a dangerous opponent and he is very hungry but Z is always prepared for tough fights,” said Aldeguer.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 22, 2009.

Melligen prepares for big break

MARK Jason Melligen is going to fight one of the toughest fights of his boxing career as he faces Mexican Michel Rosales on Nov. 13, the eve of the Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto war, at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Melligen has been working exceptionally hard at the Roger Mayweather’s Gym for his fourth battle in the US, because he knows how vital this is to the future of his career.

“He’s working very hard. This is a big break for him. He knows how important this fight is. Top Rank has big plans for Melligen,” said ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer.

Melligen’s fight isn’t a walk in the park because Rosales is a formidable foe who can pack a punch. He holds a 24-3 win-loss record with 21 knockouts.

The 26-year-old Rosales’ three defeats came from top caliber welterweights—highly-ranked welterweight Saul Alvarez (29-0-1, 22 KOs), world-rated fighter Jesus Soto Karass and undefeated American boxer Mike Alvarado (26-0, 18 KOs).

“He’s doing very well. He has been sparring with Ramon Montano. He’s looking very sharp,” said Aldeguer.

The 23-year-old Melligen was originally slated to fight Rosales last Aug. 15, in Top Rank’s “Pinoy Power 2” boxing extravaganza. However, Rosales was replaced at the last minute by veteran journeyman Ernesto Zepeda because Rosales failed to acquire a visa.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 21, 2009

Bautista still booms

REY “Boom-Boom” Bautista knocked out Indonesian champion Maragin “Dinamita” Marbun in the seventh round and wrested the interim World Boxing Council International featherweight title last night at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino.

It was Bautista’s first fight since a loss to Heriberto Ruiz in Las Vegas last year.

Bautista stopped Marbun at 1:25 of the seventh round with a devastating left straight after rocking him with another left.

The 23-year-old Bautista was sidelined for 11 months after undergoing surgery and rehabilitation on his left wrist. However, he showed no signs of the injury as he mostly used his left fist.

“He did well. He did according to what we expected. The important thing is that he didn’t feel pain on his left hand. But he still has a long way to go,” ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer told Sun.Star Cebu after the fight.

Bautista used his left jab as his main weapon and occasionally threw left hooks instead of his stronger right hand.

The Boholano fighter patiently stalked Marbun and didn’t rush in for the knockout and it was the Indonesian who was the more aggressive fighter as he threw wild combinations.

But Bautista was unaffected by the flurry of punches from Marbun.

Bautista showed the strength of his reconstructed left wrist as he threw a heavy left punch that knocked down the Marbun in the fourth round.

“I was hesitant at first but there was no pain (on my left hand). I still lack my speed. But someday I’ll retain it,” said Bautista. “He was strong I just endured his punches. I just got lucky.”

Bautista improved to 27-2 with 20 knockouts, while the 24-year-old Marbun fell to 19-6-1 with seven knockouts.

“He was more patient and he read his opponent better but he still had the same aggressiveness. He showed that he can utilize his left hand with his jabs and hooks,” said Aldeguer.

On the other hand, up-and-coming fighter Marjun Yap showed that youth is better than experience as he defeated 39-year-old veteran Pramuansak Posuwan via a 10th-round stoppage due to an injury.

ALA boys Czar Amonsot and Jason Pagara also won by decision.



Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 17, 2009.

Boom-Boom returns; Czar fights Jesus tonight

By Edri K. Aznar



IN HIS much anticipated ring comeback, ALA Gym star Rey “Boom-Boom” Bautista battles Indonesian champion Maragin “Dinamita” Marbun for the interim World Boxing Council featherweight title tonight at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino in ALA Promotions “Hamon sa Kampeon” boxing extravaganza.

Bautista recently came from an 11-month hiatus after being sidelined because of a surgery on a career-threatening wrist injury.

Before that, Bautista lost his last fight against Mexican veteran Heriberto Ruiz via a unanimous decision last Nov. 22 that made his supporters question his ability to win a world title.

However, the 23-year-old Boholano fighter is set to prove to his critics that he still has what it takes to become a future world champion by making a statement tonight.

Both Bautista and Marbun promised an explosive clash as both fighters plan to knock each other out.

While Baustita has been sidelined and lost his last fight, the 24-year-old Marbun won his last seven fights.

Bautista has 26 wins and two defeats with 19 knockouts, while Marbun is 19-5 and a draw with seven stoppages.

ALA boys Czar Amonsot and Jason Pagara will be suiting up for the undercard.

Amonsot will be facing World Boxing Organization Asia-Pacific super feather weight titlist Jesus Muzaka of Congo, while 17-year-old Pagara is clashing with Decha Bank-luaygym of Thailand.

Both fights are scheduled for 10-rounds.

Amonsot is eager to redeem himself following a lackluster showing in his last bout against African Morris Chule, but Muzaka won’t be an easy assignment for the 24-year-old Boholano fighter because the Thailand-based African has a 14-fight winning streak.

Included in the fight card is an exciting bout between young boxing talent Marjun Yap and veteran former world title contender Pramuansak Posuwan.

The preliminary bouts will start at 5 p.m. while the featured bouts will begin at 6. The boxing event will be shown at 9 p.m. on Studio 23.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 16, 2009.

Explosive Friday

By Edri K. Aznar



EXPECT fireworks on “Hamon sa Kampeon” boxing event this Friday at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino as Indonesian champion Maragin “Dinamita” Marbun vowed to knock out highly-touted ALA boxer Rey “Boom-Boom” Bautista in their clash for the interim World Boxing Council International featherweight crown.

Although Bautista (26-2, 19 KOs) is one of the elite boxers of the Philippines, Marbun (19-5-1, 7 KOs) is unfazed by his resume and said he will win by knock out.

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“I know Boom-Boom is a good boxer but we will win by KO in the 10th round,” said his trainer Bambang Supadi in behalf of his fighter in the press conference yesterday at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino.

However, the comebacking Bautista was unfazed by the 24-year-old Indonesian and confidently countered, “If he can reach the 10th round.”

The 23-year-old Bautista, who came from an 11-month hiatus due to a career threatening wrist injury that needed surgery, also promised to stop Marbun, who won seven
of his last eight fights.

“I’ll try my best to knock him out. If he comes rushing he’ll get knocked out,” said Bautista.

Despite staying inactive for 11 months, he never stopped training. He is also eager to show his followers that he is back and is still as explosive as before.

“This is what I have been waiting for. To fight back and go up in the ring and show them what I’m made of,” said Bautista.

“We have full confidence in Boom-Boom. I’ve never seen him so determined. We believe in him,” said ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer.

ALA Boys Czar Amonsot and Jason Pagara are also included in the blockbuster fight card.

Amonsot (20-3-1, 11 KOs) is set to face Thailand-based African Jesus Muzaka (16-7, 8 KOs), while the 17-year-old Pagara (19-1, 10 KOs) is trading leathers with Thai Decha Bankluaygym (29-9-3, 16 KOs).

Also featured in the fight card is veteran former world title contender Pramuansak Posuwan (45-3-1, 24 KOs) and up-and-coming Filipino pugilist Marjun Yap (9-2, 4 KOs).


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 15, 2009.

Viloria to face nemesis at Astro

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MANILA, Philippines - IBF lightflyweight champion Brian Viloria is set to stake his crown against Omar (Niño) Romero of Mexico in their third grudge match at the Cuneta Astrodome on Dec. 5 and the Hawaiian Punch plans to end all doubts as to who is the better man.

There’s no love lost between the fighters. In August 2006, Viloria lost the WBC 108-pound title in his second defense to Romero on a unanimous 12-round decision.

Viloria, who won the championship by knocking out Eric Ortiz in one round the year before, was far from his top form as Romero won convincingly on the judges’ scores of 118-110 (Adalaide Byrd), 117-111, (Chuck Giampa) and 117-112 (Mark Green).

Three months later, Romero retained the title on a majority draw but was later stripped of the crown after testing positive for illegal drugs. Viloria went on to fight for the vacant throne but was outpointed by Mexican Edgar Sosa via a majority decision.

Now, Viloria is back in the saddle and Romero is once more the challenger in his second defense. But this time, Viloria is making sure there will be no déjà vu.

He’s determined to knock out Romero who’s coming off three straight wins over Francisco Soto, Sammy Gutierrez and Filipino Juanito Rubillar.

Viloria, 28, flew to Manila for a vacation after turning back Jesus Iribe in his first IBF title defense in Honolulu last August. It was in Manila where he halted Ulises Solis for the IBF crown and Viloria wants to treat the hometown fans with another victory – at Romero’s expense.

But if there’s anyone who has the ability to frustrate Viloria, it’s Romero. The crafty Mexican is a smooth operator, difficult to hit and quick on the draw.

He has a 28-3-1 record, with 11 KOs, and holds wins over Sosa and former champion Jorge Arce. His only losses were to Juan Alberto Rosas, Gilbert Keb Baas and Rubillar.

Romero, 33, is in the twilight of a long career that started in1995. He’s looking for redemption after being embarrassed by the drug scandal and this will likely be his last chance to recapture a world title. For the Mexican veteran, it’s do or die and that’s why he’s a dangerous opponent for Viloria.

Romero started off his career with 14 straight wins and although not known as a knockout artist, he halted Arce in a single round in 1996.

In the undercard, WBO minimumweight champion Donnie Nietes will put his crown on the line against either Ivan (Polito) Meneses of Mexico or Omar (El Pastor) Soto of Puerto Rico. It will be Nietes’ fourth defense of the vacant title he claimed after whipping Thailand ‘s Pornsawan Porpramook in 2007.

He has so far repulsed challengers Eddy Castro, Erik Ramirez and Manuel Vargas.

ALA Boxing Gym owner Tony Aldeguer told The Star yesterday that Solar Sports is looking for a Mexican opponent and Meneses looms as the top candidate. Meneses has a 14-5-1 record, with eight KOs, and is ranked No. 8 by the WBC, No. 11 by the WBA and No. 11 by the WBO. Soto, 27, is the No. 5 WBC contender and last month, was stopped by Sosa in a bid for the WBC crown.

“Solar prefers a Mexican so we are scouting for one or we may get another Omar Soto who is Mexican but I think he has gone up in weight,” said Aldeguer. “Meneses as an opponent is not sure. We hope to finalize the match this week.”

Nietes is unbeaten in his last 16 outings and has a 25-1-3 record,with 14 KOs . His only loss was a split 10-round decision to Angky Angkota in Jakarta in 2004.

For sure, when Nietes shows up to fight at the Astrodome, he’ll enter the ring with his pet snake curled over his shoulders. Nietes is known as “Ahas.”

In another world title fight, Solar is bringing in newly crowned International Boxing Association superbantamweight champion Ana (The Hurricane) Julaton to defend her crown against a still unnamed challenger.

Julaton, 29, is a full-blooded Filipina born and raised in the US. She won the vacant IBA title on a 10-round majority decision over Kelsey Jeffries in San Jose last September.

The scores were 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95. Julaton’s record is 5-1-1, with one knockout. Last year, she blasted Salina Jordan into submission in a single round. Her only loss was a split eight-round decision to Dominga Olivo in Lemoore , California , for the vacant WBC International 122-pound title.

Hamon’ bets meet today

By Edri K. Aznar



THE protagonists of the ALA Promotions “Hamon Sa Kampeon” boxing extravaganza will face each other for the first time as they will be in a press conference today at the Aegean room at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino.

ALA boys Rey “Boom-Boom” Bautista, Czar Amon-sot and Jason Pagara will be in the same room with their opponents, Indonesian champion Marangin Marbun, Thailand-based African Jesus Muzaka and Decha Bank-luaygym and will talk to the media on their upcoming fight on Friday at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino.

Bautista (26-2, 19 KO’s) is facing Marbun (19-5-1, 7 KO’s) in his comeback fight after almost a year for the interim World Boxing Council International featherweight title.

The 23-year-old Boholano fighter was sidelined for 11 months after a surgery on his left wrist because of a fracture that had been bothering him since 2007.

On the other hand, Amonsot (19-3-1, 11 KO’s) is trading leathers with Muzaka (16-7, 8 KOs), while 17-year-old Pagara (18-1, 10 KO’s) is battling Bankluaygym (29-9-3, 16 KO’s).

Former world title contender Pramuansak Posuwan (45-3-1, 24 KO’s) is also seeing action as he faces young boxing prospect Marjun Yap (11-2, 5 KO’s).

The boxing event will be shown on Studio 23 at 9 in the evening. The fight starts at 5 p.m. while the featured bouts will start at 6 p.m.

Tickets are now on sale at Php 1,500 for the VIP 1st row; Php 1,250 for the VIP 2nd row; VIP 3rd row at Php 1,000; Ringside at Php 500 and Php 250 for Ballroom and Balcony. For “Hamon sa Kampeon” tickets you may contact ALA Promotions Office at 032-2364611; ALA Gym in Banilad Town Center @ 032-4162011 and in Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino lobby @ 032-2326888 local 8725.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 14, 2009.

Gakit stops Lubguban in Fight Night series

By Rommel C. Manlosa



SIX days after suffering a one-sided defeat, Wenceslao Gakit of the Phil-Aust Boxing Club vented his ire on the unsuspecting Raffy Lubguban of Catmon, Cebu to lead the winners of the Summit Natural Drinking Water Fight Night Amateur Series at the Gaisano Country Mall Car Park last Saturday.

Gakit broke hold from the closely fought battle from the first round as he broke Lub-guban’s nose en route to scoring a Referee Stopped Contest due to Injury (RSC-I) win at the 1:25 mark of the fourth round of the 54-kilo division.

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On the other hand, substitute Rame Vega of the Flores Boxing Club showed too much skill as he forced Mark Emmanuel Villarino of the Talamban National High School to retire at the end of the second round in the 38-kilo bout.

Vance Cabahug of Pagsa-bungan, Mandaue City and Jessie Dignos of the Flores BC each scored identical RSC wins both in the first round to complete the list of impressive wins.

Cabahug overwhelmed Mar-vin Llansa of the Flores Boxing Club at the 14th second of their match in the 47-kilo class, while Dignos proved too much for Jamewell Amacanin of Consolacion, just 37 seconds into their 48-kilo class bout.

The other winners of the night were Phil-Aust BC’s Exel Mogar (20kgs), Bebe Rama (23kgs), Kint Mike Tuñacao (25kgs) and Richard Rama (25kgs), Alson Seno of Banilad Elementary School (28kgs), Melmark Digsco of Flores BC (30kgs), John Mark Yabut of Kalibo, Aklan (48kgs) and Jinky Gako of Pit-os, Cebu City (55kgs.).



Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 13, 2009.

Canada wild over Sonsona

MANILA, Philippines - Canadian fans were so impressed with newly-crowned WBO superflyweight champion “Marvelous” Marvin Sonsona’s win over Puerto Rican veteran Jose (Carita) Lopez that Orion Sports Management president Allan Tremblay has offered the 19-year-old Filipino a six-fight contract for two years to be a mainstay at the Casino Rama in Ontario.

But Sonsona’s manager Dr. Rajan Yraola said yesterday he’s inclined to negotiate on a fight-to-fight basis. However, the General Santos City southpaw’s next bout will be his first title defense against Mexico’s Alejandro (Payasito) Hernandez in a Tremblay promotion on Nov. 21.

Dr. Yraola said he’s keeping his options open for Sonsona’s mandatory defense against No. 1 contender and European champion Ivan Pozo of Spain in February in Manila.

Last Sept. 4, Sonsona floored Lopez enroute to wresting the WBO 115-pound diadem via a unanimous 12-round decision at Casino Rama. It was the Filipino’s first outing overseas and first fight where he went beyond five rounds. It was also the first time that the 5,200-seat Casino Rama was packed to the rafters for a boxing event as at least 1,000 fans over capacity were accommodated on a standing-room-only basis.

“Marvin made quite an impression on Mr. Tremblay and the Canadian public,” said Dr. Yraola. “About 30 percent of the crowd was Filipino but the fans came from all over. The venue is about a 2 1/2 hour drive from downtown Toronto. Mr. Tremblay gave us a six-fight offer. We agreed to do the first defense in Casino Rama again to pay back Mr. Tremblay for his faith in Marvin. But we’re excited for Marvin to make his mandatory defense before his countrymen in February.”

Dr. Yraola said neither Top Rank nor Golden Boy gave Sonsona a chance and it took Tremblay to stage the fight against Lopez on the advice of co-promoter Sampson Lewkowicz.

Sonsona arrived in Ontario 10 days before the fight and trained alongside Canadian hero Steve Molitor for a day in the gym to be introduced to Canadian fans. He would’ve flown in earlier but a visa glitch delayed his departure from Manila.

“The Canadian fans were surprised how a teenager like Marvin could fight like an experienced pro,” said Dr. Yraola. “Marvin doesn’t just have style but he’s also good-looking. I’m hoping he’ll keep his feet on the ground because he’s got a lot of fighting years ahead.”

It wasn’t a walk in the park for Sonsona against the veteran Lopez who turned pro when the Filipino was only one year old. Sonsona decked Lopez in the fourth round with a vicious right hook but the Puerto Rican recovered to stun the Filipino with a right straight just before the bell. Lopez pressed the action from the fifth to the eighth as Sonsona appeared to lose steam. Then, Sonsona found his second wind to finish strong. The judges’ scores were 116-109, 115-110 and 114-111 as two points were deducted from Lopez for low blows in the seventh round by referee Rocky Zolnierczyk.

“Lopez had a good counter right straight and Marvin had difficulty scoring with his uppercut,” said Dr. Yraola. “We knew it would go 12 rounds because Lopez is really tough but we felt it was important for Marvin to score at least a knockdown. Luckily, he did it.”

Dr. Yraola credited Sonsona’s trainers Nonito (Dodong) Donaire Sr. and Jun Agrabio for their hard work. “Dodong’s mid-fight adjustments were critical,” he said. “Dodong worked on Marvin’s distance fighting with jabs and combinations while Jun concentrated on the inside. Dodong also helped out in Marvin’s conditioning, introducing drills and exercises that he learned from the US. Dodong proved he’s a maker of champions. The way Marvin fought, it reminded me of how Dodong’s son Jun-Jun fights.”

Dr. Yraola said Sonsona showed only 70 percent of his potential against Lopez and is capable of bringing more to the table. “Marvin himself admitted he didn’t do his best and I think that’s a mark of a fighter who’s maturing,” said Dr. Yraola. “He wants to improve. He’s not satisfied with how he is now. That’s a positive sign for a champion who’s only 19.”

Sonsona resumed training in the Quezon City gym owned by Dr. Yraola last week and would’ve joined Manny Pacquiao in Baguio if not for the impassable highway due to flood waters.

'Boom Boom' clears the air

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MANILA, Philippines - After nearly a year’s layoff, once world-rated Rey (Boom Boom) Bautista is out for redemption and the first obstacle in his climb back to prominence is Indonesia’s Marangin (Dinamita) Marbun whom he faces in a scheduled 12-round bout for the vacant interim WBC International featherweight crown at the Waterfront Hotel ballroom in Cebu City on Oct. 16.

It remains to be seen if Bautista, 23, will be hampered by the ring rust resulting from an 11-month hiatus. Last February, he underwent surgery to repair the fractured scaphoid – the bone of the thumb side of the carpus that is the largest in the proximal row – in his left hand. The operation was performed by orthopaedic hand surgeon Dr. Tammy de los Reyes at the Manila Doctors Hospital.

In contrast, Marbun has been extraordinarily active, engaging in five fights this year. He is unbeaten in his last eight outings and has a record of 19-5-1, with seven KOs. Of his five defeats, only one came inside the distance when he lost to Duangpetch Saengmorakot in the sixth round in Surat Thani, Thailand, two years ago.

Marbun, 24, is determined to make good in his third Philippine assignment. He previously lost to Glenn Porras in Kidapawan and Ciso Morales in Tubod, both on points.

ALA Gym owner Antonio Aldeguer told The STAR yesterday Bautista is ready to barge back into the world ratings after losing an eight-round decision to Mexico’s Heriberto Ruiz in Las Vegas last November. The loss snapped a streak of three straight wins that followed his first-round knockout setback to Daniel Ponce de Leon in a WBO superbantamweight title bout in 2007.

“After one or two recovery fights, Boom Boom wants a rematch with Ruiz then he’ll go after his old nemesis Ponce de Leon,” said Aldeguer.

More than just beating Marbun, Aldeguer said Bautista wants to clear the air on the status of his career, which critics are saying has reached an ebb.

Aldeguer said Bautista suffered a career-threatening injury in his left hand while sparring with Gerry Peñalosa at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles two years ago.

“Boom Boom was already having pains in his left hand when he fought Ponce de Leon but he never told us for fear of having the fight cancelled,” revealed Aldeguer. “He continued to keep it a secret – again for fear that people might say he was using the injury as an alibi for his first round knockout loss to de Leon.”

Aldeguer said Bautista fought with pain in his next three fights against Antonio Meza, Genaro Camargo and Eden Marquez – whom he beat. “On several occasions during sparring, his trainer noticed that Boom Boom would rarely jab or hardly use his left hand,” related Aldeguer. “An X-ray was then taken of his wrist and the initial finding was just a slight sprain and a pain killer (Arcoxia) was given to ease the swelling and the pain. It worked temporarily but the pain got back and it was worse when he last fought and lost to Ruiz.”

Aldeguer said a series of X-Rays and thorough examination confirmed the non-union of the fractured scahoid. The surgery involved a bone graft and inserting a screw in the left wrist. “It was an agonizing experience for Boom Boom since there was no assurance he could fight again – until a final assessment six months after the operation,” continued Aldeguer.

Last August, Dr. de los Reyes cleared Bautista to resume training but said if the pain recurred, another surgery may be necessary. X-Rays and CT-scans showed a clean repair job. In training, Bautista has felt no pain and doctors attributed it to his dedication in undergoing five months of daily therapy. Aldeguer said the smooth sailing in training camp has given Bautista renewed confidence.

“This only proves how determined he is to get back to his old form and it’s not to gain sympathy,” stressed Aldeguer. “It’s going to be a hard and long way back to gaining his former stature but Boom Boom is going to make it at all costs.”

Bautista was initially pencilled to take on WBC International featherweight titlist Rachamongkol Sor Pleonchit but the Thai was injured in training and was replaced by Marbun who was described by Indonesian matchmaker Temuzin Rambing as a credible opponent.

Bautista’s biggest win so far was a 12-round decision over Argentina’s Sergio Medina in Las Vegas in 2007. He floored Medina in the sixth round and survived a standing eight-count in the 11th to carve out a hard-earned win on points. It was Bautista’s sixth victory on US soil.

Bautista was once ranked No. 1 in the superbantamweight honor roll but because of inactivity, his name no longer appears in the ratings of any world governing body. It’ll be an uphill battle for recognition by Bautista whose record is 26-2, with 19 KOs but Aldeguer said the mission is possible. The first step is to win convincingly over Marbun.

Gorres fight moved

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By Edri K. Aznar

INSTEAD of fighting in the undercard of the Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto fight on Nov. 15 (RP time) in Las Vegas, Z Gorres is scheduled to headline a boxing card the day before the fight at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino.

“They will stick with original plan. Z will be fighting in the main event of Nov. 13,” said ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer in an interview by Sun.Star Cebu yesterday.

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The 27-year-old Gorres is tentatively scheduled to fight veteran Puerto Rican Eric Morel for the interim World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight crown as what was mandated by WBO president Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel.

However, it isn’t final yet as Morel hasn’t told Top Rank, the promoter of the event, if he is accepting the fight.

“They (Top Rank) are talking to the Morel camp but they (Morel’s camp) haven’t given a word,” said Aldeguer.

Despite the uncertainty, Aldeguer is optimistic that Gorres and the 34-year-old Morel will be facing each other because their fight was ordered by WBO.

“Morel should accept the fight because it was ordered by Paco Valcarcel,” he said.

If Morel refuses a fight with Gorres, Aldeguer is hoping that the WBO will pick another top contender to face Gorres for the interim WBO bantamweight title.

“We’ll just be ready. We’re focused on Morel but we are ready regardless who is placed in front of us. Hopefully, we get a word within the week,” said Aldeguer

The other fight ordered by WBO was a world title fight between the current WBO bantamweight titleholder Fernando Montiel and veteran Filipino fighter Gerry Peñalosa, which is slated this December.

Valcarcel said that the winner of the Gorrres vs. Morel and Montiel vs. Peñalosa fights will face each other in 2010 for the WBO bantamweight title.

Gorres and ALA Gym trainers Edito and Edmund Villamor will leave for the US on Oct. 18.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 9, 2009.

Summit boxing series hits Country Mall

By Rommel C. Manlosa



THE Summit Natural Drinking Water Fight Night Amateur Boxing Series will return to the Gaisano Country Mall Car Park with 12 exciting matches this Saturday.

Exel Mogar of the Phil-Aust Boxing Club will open the hostilities as he trades punches against Jerry Serenio of the Flores Boxing Club in the 20-kg. bout.

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Dominique Casañares of Bacayan Elementary School will then face off with Bebe Rama of Phil-Aust BC, while Kint Mike Tuñacao of the Phil-Aust club will face off with Jay Mark Augusto of the Flores club (25kgs).

Other amateur fights in the event will pit Richard Rama against Rommel Casañares; Jeffrey Estela against Melmark Dignos; Mark Emmanuel Villarino opposite Elju Aligado; Vance Cabahug against Marvin Llansa and Jessie Dignos against Jamewell Amacanin. (RCM)

Sonsona to defend crown vs Mexican

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BAGUIO CITY , Philippines – World Boxing Organization (WBO) superflyweight champion Marvin “Marvelous” Sonsona will make his first title defense against Mexican brawler Alejandro Hernandez in a 12-round bout on Nov. 21 in Canada.

Sonsona, who scored a stunning upset over dethroned champion Jose Luis Lopez in a grueling encounter last month, is set to hold camp in Baguio for a four-week high-altitude training.

But former Baguio councilor Rufino Panagan, a noted boxing promoter and manager, had advised Sonsona camp to temporarily hold the fighter’s roadwork in Metro Manila due to bad weather condition in the area.

The 19-year-old Sonsona, a General Santos native like boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, boasts of a 14-0 win-loss record, including 12 knockouts. He is currently training under Nonito Donaire Sr., father of Nonito Donaire Jr., the other Filipino world champion.

“The Sonsona camp was awed by the respect shown by Baguio and Benguet residents to the on-going training of Pacquiao, thus, they want to hold their high altitude training here. We will welcome Marvin the same way that we welcomed Pacquiao,” Panagan said.

He added that with dedication and hard work, Sonsona could be the next Pacquiao.

“But Hernandez is no pushover although Sonsona can hurdle his tough test with enough preparation,” Panagan said.

Sonsona will be holding his gym workouts at the Panagan gymnasium here and will do roadwork around the city.

Sonsona preps for 1st defense

By Edri K. Aznar

WORLD Boxing Organization (WBO) super flyweight champion Marvin Sonsona will have his first title defense against former world championship challenger Alejandro Hernandez on Nov. 21 at the Casino Rama in Ontario, Canada.

“It is final, Sonsona’s first title defense will be against Hernandez on Nov. 21,” said Sammy Gello-ani, who acts as the promoter of the 19-year-old world title-holder.

Sonsona shocked the world after defeating veteran fighter Jose Lopez for the WBO super flyweight strap last Sept. 4. He became the second youngest Filipino fighter to win a world title next to Morris East.

Hernandez is a 23-year-old Mexican boxer, who is ranked No.14 in the WBO super flyweight division. He has a record of 22 wins, seven defeats and a draw with 11 knockouts.

Gello-ani explained that the reason for picking Hernandez was that he was the only ranked fighter, who was available for the fight.

“He was the only available fighter ranked in the Top 15,” said Gello-ani.

This will be Hernandez’s second crack at the world title. He fell short in his last attempt after losing via a unanimous decision over the undefeated WBO flyweight titlist, Omar Narvaez, in Argentina last year.

Hernandez is fresh from a unanimous decision loss to fellow Mexican pugilist Wilbert Uicab in their North American Boxing Federation flyweight title tiff.

Sonsona and his team are scheduled to leave for Baguio City this Friday, where he is set to formally start his training for the upcoming title defense.

He will be accompanied by undefeated fighter Ciso Morales, who is also scheduled to fight on the same card, and four other sparring mates. Morales will also be sparring with Sonsona.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on October 7, 2009.

Donaire waiting for call

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MANILA, Philippines - Interim WBA superflyweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr. said yesterday Jorge Arce’s upset loss to South African Simphiwe Nonggayi for the IBF title has derailed his plans to fight in December but he’s still hoping Top Rank chairman Bob Arum and his manager Cameron Dunkin can come up with a option that will bring him back in the ring before the year ends.

“I’m just a phone call away,” said Donaire who is now rated No. 7 in The Ring Magazine’s pound-for-pound rankings. “Right now, we’re playing a strategic game in looking for an opponent. Arce would’ve been perfect if only he beat Nonggayi. But he’s not in the cards anymore. There’s really nothing to gain in fighting Arce who is back to rebuilding his career.”

WBA superflyweight titlist Nobuo Nashiro is a target but he may be ordered to stake his crown once more against Mexican Hugo Cazares with whom the Japanese battled to a split draw in Osaka last Wednesday.

Vic Darchinyan is another possibility even as he’s coming off a loss to IBF bantamweight champion Joseph Agbeko but the problem is the Australian is staying clear of Donaire. Darchinyan, who lost his IBF flyweight crown to Donaire on a fifth round knockout two years ago, is booked to defend his “super” WBA and WBC 115-pound titles against Tomas Rojas in California on Dec. 12.

WBO bantamweight titleholder Fernando Montiel was also considered but the Mexican is pencilled to face Gerry Peñalosa in Cancun on Dec. 19.

Nonggayi could be his next opponent although the unbeaten “Golden Master” is hardly a box office draw. At least, he holds a world title that Donaire wants.

“Nonggayi is like (Moruti) Mthalane,” said Donaire referring to his South African victim whom he stopped in the sixth round in Las Vegas last year. “You wonder how many will watch the fight because Nonggayi has no US fan base. Still, I’m willing to fight anyone Top Rank and Cameron will put in front of me.”

Donaire said he will go back to the gym with trainer Jonathan Peñalosa this week just in case Dunkin phones.

But realistically, Donaire said it’s unlikely he’ll fight again this year.

“The balance of the advertising money for the year is going to Pacquiao-Cotto so I don’t think there’s going to be too much left for anything else,” said Donaire. “It’s probably just as well as I’ve just recovered from dengue and I’m scheduled to visit Dr. (George) Canlas this week for a check-up on my right hand which by the way, is healed.”

Meanwhile, Donaire is keeping busy with his TV and social commitments. He taped his fifth appearance on GMA-TV’s Celebrity Duets yesterday and may host a TV documentary, to be produced by Solar Sports, on Manny Pacquiao’s training for Miguel Cotto in Baguio.

Last Wednesday, Donaire met with President Arroyo near the golf course of Malacañang in a special audience where he gave the Chief Executive one of only eight team jackets made for his recent fight against Rafael Concepcion. President Arroyo rewarded Donaire with a P1 million bonus for beating Concepcion to claim the interim WBA title.

After accepting the President’s bonus, Donaire said he would donate the entire amount for typhoon victims and rally Fil-Ams in the US to send relief goods. He also vowed to support Games and Amusements Board boxing chief Dr. Nasser Cruz’ program for out-of-school youth. Dr. Cruz was present at the meeting with the President. Also attending were Ambassador Mae Jimenez of the Ahon Foundation, Donaire’s wife Rachel, team coordinator Mark Tandoc and GMA-TV vice president Ida Henares.

It was later decided that Donaire would use the P1 million reward to buy 40 “bahay kubos” to shelter typhoon victims in an area to be designated by the President’s staff. GMA-TV pledged to support Donaire’s effort by providing the “kubos” with living amenities, like stoves and beds. Each “kubo” will be about 14 square meters with provisions for a kitchen, sitting area and bedroom.

“We want a ‘kubo’ that’s simple, safe, clean and durable – something that’s fit for living in, not for recreation,” said Donaire who shopped around for a “kubo” maker in Imus last Thursday.

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Baguio ideal venue for champ's training

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BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – This city braces for Monday’s arrival of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who chose to set up his camp here in his buildup for his keenly awaited showdown with Puerto Rican champion Miguel Cotto in November.

“Baguio is a wise choice for his training, contrary to Freddie Roach and Bob Arum’s wishes, because it provides good cardio-vascular development as well as for stamina and strength,” said Boy Velasco, one of the coaches of the national boxing team.

Pacquiao said that eight weeks would be enough to put himself in top shape for the Cotto bout on Nov. 14 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas where the power-punching Filipino is aiming to add the WBO welterweight champion to his growing list of victims.

But Roach and Arum fear of distraction with fans expected to come in droves during gym training at the Teachers Camp and during roadwork.

“Team Pacquiao should really take into considerations distractions, especially that the city is a major tourist destination,” said former Gintong Alay national camp director Narciso Padilla.

However, Velasco said security has been arranged this early that would ensure the world pound-for-pound king’s unhampered training.

He added that the ABAP (Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines) gym is ready.

“The facility has undergone face lifting even before Pacquiao decided to train here,” said Velasco.

Still, the greatest asset of this city is its high altitude, said Padilla.

“We hope, however, that local residents will cooperate in supporting Pacquiao’s two-month training program here by respecting the training regimen especially during his outdoor road-runs and work-outs,” Padilla said. – Artemio Dumlao

Pinoy icon's toughest test: Early fight odds on Pacman

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star)

SAN DIEGO – Bob Arum knows too well that Nov. 14 is not going to be a picnic for Manny Pacquiao.

In fact, the big boss from Top Rank expects a real tough fight for the pride of the Philippines who’s scheduled to challenge Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico for the WBO welterweight crown at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

With a quick glance at the fight odds, Pacquiao at +250 (you need to bet $250 to win a hundred) and Cotto at -210, it’s not hard to say that the Filipino icon is favored to win a record seventh world title in different weight classes.

But Arum said it won’t be a walk in the park.

“One thing is for sure. If Manny wins it’s not going to be easy. It will be tough,” said Arum yesterday from the frontseat of the Suburban that was taking him to a three-hour ride from Los Angeles to the Petco ballpark in San Diego.

Joining the legendary promoter in the trip to the home of the Padres, where Pacquiao was to throw the ceremonial pitch in the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, were Top Rank’s Lee Samuels and Bill Caplan.

“Believe me, this will be the toughest fight of his life,” Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, told the media during the “Firepower” press tour that took Pacquiao and Cotto to five key cities in the US the last six days.

The tour ended the other day at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles. Cotto has flown back to Puerto Rico, and should be ready to begin the hard grind in his camp in Tampa, Florida.

Pacquiao, on the other hand, stayed behind, and had to travel to San Diego at noon yesterday to be at the Petco Park. It was the third baseball stadium which he has visited the past week after the Yankee Stadium and the AT&T Park in San Francisco.

Arum said if Pacquiao gets past Cotto, and there’s no easy way he’s gonna do that, the reigning pound-for-pound champion will be back on the ring on March 15 against the lucky one who is picked as his next opponent.

“He doesn’t want to fight in February so we’re looking at March 15,” said Arum.

Pacquiao will seek a congressional seat in his hometown in Saranggani province in southern Philippines during the May 2010 elections, and a fight in March will be right inside the calendar.

“He can fight on March 15, and that gives him enough time to go out and campaign,” said Arum.

Among those being tipped as Pacquiao’s next opponent are Floyd Mayweather Jr., the undefeated ex-pound-for-pound champion who takes on Juan Manuel Marquez on Saturday (Sunday in Manila), Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Shane Mosley or Edwin Valero.

Pacquiao said depending on the results of their fights, he and Mayweather could end up facing each other next year. But whether it will be the one prior to the elections remain uncertain.

Once the fight pushes through, Pacquiao could earn from $25 million to $30 million or roughly P1.5 billion, and Mayweather a little less.

“Kapag nanalo kami pareho ni Mayweather, kami na yan (If I and Mayweather prevail, then it should be us),” said Pacquiao. “Nag-uusap na. Basta. Nag-uusap na (Talks are on).”

Notes; This back-breaking press tour of five key cities in seven days is nothing new to Bob Arum. The Harvard lawyer who has gone promoting some of the great, great fights in history over the last 40 years, has had some tours that would make this one look like a picnic. He said the toughest he’s been to was for the Marvin Hagler-Thomas Hearns fight in ’80s. “It took us 23 cities in just 14 days,” he told Pinoy scribes who travelled with him to San Diego from LA. “And it was fun even if the boxers got into each other’s nerves at one point and I had to break up a fist-fight in St. Louis. That’s why when the opening bell sounded there was no more feeling out between the two boxers. It was a street fight,” said Arum. The Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto press tour got off in New York last Thursday, and took both fighters to Puerto Rico, San Francisco and LA. There were days when they stayed longer up in the air (plane ride) than they were on the ground. But the result has proven to be a tremendous success, and Pacquiao’s adviser, Mike Koncz, said there’s never been like it in Pacquiao’s recent fights. Pacquiao was to take a late-night flight to Manila Tuesday and should be home on Thursday. Training, under Freddie Roach, Buboy Fernandez and Alex Ariza, begins on the 21st in Baguio City.

Mayweather vs Marquez Live Stream, Floyd Mayweather vs Juan Manuel Marquez Live Streaming

The boxing world is anticipating the explosive match of Floyd "Money" Mayweather vs Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez. This is going to be a blockbuster match. Mayweather has returned to boxing and he has bravely put his undefeated record at risk when he agreed to face five-time world champion in 3 divisions, Juan Manuel Marquez.

Let's hear what our fighters have to say...

"That's right. I'm back and you can all get ready for another chapter of the Mayweather experience!" said Mayweather. "I told my CEO Leonard Ellerbe from the start that I wanted to come back fighting the best fighters out there and Juan Manuel Marquez is one of the best in boxing today."

"To be considered the best in the world, you have to fight the best, and I have made it clear even when Mayweather was away from the sport that he was the only man I really wanted to fight," said Marquez. "I'm happy that he's come out of retirement and accepted my challenge. Unfortunately for him he might be sorry he came back at all."

Will Mayweather be successful in reclaiming his pound-for-pound title by fighting Marquez? Or will Marquez take the title and add another victory to his amazing legacy? This is going to be a grand event, which will determine the king of this boxing era.

Catch MAYWEATHER vs MARQUEZ "Number One/Numero Uno" and see what happens when the bell rings on September 19, 2009 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Watch it via HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9pm ET / 6pm PT

Marquez will beat Mayweather

by Edmond Navarro

I AM just as excited as most boxing fans are for the Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Juan Manuel Marquez showdown dubbed as “Number One Versus Numero Uno” this Sunday (RP time).

The undefeated Mayweather is coming out of retirement and hopes to use this fight as a ticket towards regaining the recognition as pound-for-pound king. In fact, reports say that if Mayweather beats Marquez, a date with current pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao early next year is inevitable, thus settling the score as to who really is the P4P king.

Marquez, meanwhile, is obviously chasing Pacquiao and that this fight is all about him wanting a third bout with the Pinoy boxing hero. If that is not extra motivation to beat Mayweather, I don’t know what it is.

Different reasons but for the same opponent in the horizon.

Many boxing observers believe that Mayweather has the edge and should win this fight because he is bigger and he’s got the best defense.

But I beg to disagree. Marquez has proven that size (or moving up in weight) does not at all pose any much of a threat as evidenced in his last two fights, wherein he moved up from 130 pounds to 135 pounds with both fights ending in knockout victories.

Marquez scored an 11th round knockout over Joel Casamayor in September 2008 for the Ring Magazine lightweight championship and kayoed the former undisputed lightweight champion Juan Diaz early this year.

Mayweather may be undefeated but he has not faced a fighter of JMM’s caliber . In fact, he has been widely criticized for docking the best fighters in his division like Antonio Margarito, Miguel Cotto, and Shane Mosley.

On the contrary, Marquez has fought the best, including Pacquiao, whom boxing aficionados and even Oscar dela Hoya believe has the fastest hands in boxing.

This will discount what many people believe, that Marquez will have problems against the hand speed of Mayweather, because he is used to it already with those two fights with Pacquiao.

I share the sentiments of dela Hoya that Marquez is not a one-two combination fighter. He throws a lot of punches and his technical skills are incomparable, not to mention the fact he too is a very good counter puncher.

All these plus that extra motivation to fight Pacquiao make me believe that Marquez will give Mayweather, Jr. his first loss.

Marquez by unanimous decision.


Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper on September 17, 2009.

Pacquiao to start promo tour for bout

MANILA, Philippines - Late nights will soon be over for Manny Pacquiao.

The world’s best boxer today is set to embark on a whirlwind press tour of five key cities to mark the start of his preparations for the Nov. 14 clash with WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto.

He leaves for New York on Wednesday to be at the Yankees Stadium at noon of Sept. 10 for the launch of the press tour that would take him and Cotto to Caguas, Puerto Rico on Sept. 12, the AT&T Park in San Francisco for the Giants-Dodgers match on Sept. 13, the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles on Sept. 14 and the PETCO Park in San Diego (Pacquiao only) for the Padres-Diamondbacks match on Sept. 15.

After a day or two, Pacquiao heads back to the Philippines, hopefully with his chief trainer, Freddie Roach, on hand, for the start of his training in Baguio City. According to plans, Pacquiao will train in the country’s summer capital, and would move to the Wild Card Gym in LA three weeks before the showdown.

Once training starts, it means no more late nights, parties, and shooting of movies and commercials for the 30-year-old icon who said the other day that while he was very busy the last couple of months he made sure he knew his limitations.

“There are some late nights because I worked on my showbiz career. But I made sure I get enough rest. I know my body. Sinigurado ko naman na sapat din ang pahinga ko kahit na medyo napupuyat,” said Pacquiao, who vowed to give it all once training starts.

While his tireless Canadian adviser, Mike Koncz, worked for possible training sites in Mexico or Vancouver, Pacquiao chose Baguio City, and has asked Roach to come over as soon as the press tour is done and over with.

Pacquiao the other day cleared the air on the rumored rift between him and Roach regarding the training, and on some things being written about Koncz.

“Things are being said and written about Mike Koncz but to set it straight he’s just doing his job. I like him because he gets the job done. And contrary to what’s being said, it’s not him calling the shots. I do. He only does what I tell him to do. Masipag siya (He’s hardworking),” said Pacquiao of Koncz.

Pacquiao’s Filipino trainer, Buboy Fernandez, is now up in Baguio for an ocular inspection of the possible training camp inside Teachers’ Village. The route that will cover Pacquiao’s roadwork, both flat and mountainous courses, is being laid out by Fernandez.

He said eight weeks should be enough to get him in tip-top fighting form and everybody who knows the pride of Saranggani Province in Mindanao could attest to the fact that when he trains he trains like no other.

Tax laws have prevented Pacquiao from staying in the US for the duration of his eight-week training as aliens like him are only given so much time to stay there. He is close to his limit (180 days in three years), and if he goes beyond that he will be heavily taxed.

One man left standing

MILAN – Lightflyweight Harry Tañamor and bantamweight Joan Tipon unceremoniously crashed out of the party in the second round of eliminations at the 15th AIBA World Championships in the 11,000-seat Mediolanum Forum here Saturday, leaving the Philippines with only featherweight Charly Suarez still in contention.

It was a dark day for the five-man national squad that got off to a hot start, winning three of its first four outings, before tumbling to lose three in a row.

Suarez, the country’s last hope for a medal, faced lanky Korean Joo Min Jae yesterday. The result was not available at presstime.

Tañamor, 31, was a disappointment against fifth-seeded Hovhannes Danielyan of Armenia as he appeared lost in the ring, unable to score a single point in the third and last round. Danielyan, 22, led all the way in cruising to a trouble-free 11-3 decision.

Tañamor’s vaunted in-and-out southpaw attack was never a threat to Danielyan who was more aggressive. The Armenian had the better of the exchanges from both close and long range. Tañamor desperately tried to land a big punch down the stretch but Danielyan, who reached the second round in the Beijing Olympics, proved too smart to be caught.

The loss ended Tañamor’s dream of adding a gold medal to his World Championships collection of a silver and two bronzes.

National coach Pat Gaspi conceded defeat but Tañamor insisted he was robbed of points by the five judges, one of whom Frank Scharmach of Germany scored it 7-1 for the Armenian.

“I hurt him with body shots and I heard him grunt,” said Tañamor in Pilipino. “I couldn’t understand why I wasn’t scoring points. I wanted to bring him down in the last round with one shot but I ran out of time.”

Tañamor later admitted his timing was off.

“I think I could’ve been in better physical condition if I had more exposure,” said Tañamor. “Even while training in Cuba, I felt my body wasn’t in top shape.”

Tañamor hadn’t seen action in a tournament since winning the gold medal at the World Cup in Moscow last December. In that competition, Tañamor whipped Poland’s Lukasz Masczczyk, 12-4, in the semifinals before mowing down Cuba’s Yampier Hernandez, 15-7, for the gold.

Because of lack of international exposure, Tañamor lost his world ranking and wasn’t among the eight seeds in the 48-kilogram division here. Surprisingly, Masczczyk was seeded first.

“The seeding was critical because if Harry was in the top eight, he would’ve started out fighting the low contenders,” said Gaspi. “I thought that if Harry could beat Danielyan, he would go to the finals.”

Danielyan came with impressive credentials as a 2006 European Championships semifinalist and gold medalist at the European Elite Championships in Liverpool last year. His advantage over Tañamor was he kept busy this year. Another edge was his age – he is nine years younger.

“If Harry was 100 percent, he would’ve beaten Danielyan for sure,” said Gaspi. “But he was only 70 to 75 percent. It’s difficult if your body isn’t active. We missed out on at least four tournaments this year. It’s different training in the gym and fighting in the ring. Harry was beaten to the punch inside and outside. I’m disappointed in his showing because he was our best bet for a medal.”

As for Tipon, he was almost in tears after dropping a 2-0 verdict to second-seeded Abdelhalim Ouradi of Algeria in a fight that the 2006 Asian Games gold medalist could’ve easily won.

Tipon and Ouradi were scoreless at the end of two rounds. The flat-footed Algerian was an open target for the quick-stepping Tipon but the Bacolod City contender never came close to scoring with his jab-straight combinations. Tipon threw punches in the air, like he was shadow-boxing, and cautiously stayed away from getting hit.

In the third round, Ouradi repeatedly rushed Tipon and picked up two points down the stretch to eke out the victory.

“I lost my power,” said Tipon in Pilipino. “I don’t know what happened. I got tired throwing punches because I kept missing. I just couldn’t connect. In the second round, I hurt my right arm when we both missed and our arms locked. I’m so down because I could’ve beaten him if only my body was in good condition.”

Gaspi said if Tipon fought like the way he did in beating Sri Lanka’s Kamal Gamaethiralalage in the first round of eliminations last Wednesday, Ouradi would’ve lost.

“I don’t know what happened,” said Gaspi. “He complained that his body wasn’t reacting to what he wanted to do. I just know Tipon is capable of doing much more.”

While there is no doubt that both Tañamor and Tipon are skilled fighters, the question mark is their mental toughness. They lost to more aggressive fighters who took the risk of engaging. Tañamor and Tipon fought too cautiously, too defensively that they forgot it’s offense, not defense, that scores points.

Vargas cites advocacy in boxing

MILAN – Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) president Ricky Vargas ended his five-day stay here on a high note with the national team’s strong start at the 15th AIBA World Championships and vowed all-out support in the country’s quest for the first Olympic gold medal.

Vargas left for Manila early Friday morning after the five-man boxing squad raced to a three win-one loss record with lightwelterweight Genebert Basadre, bantamweight Joan Tipon and featherweight Charly Suarez chalking up wins in the first round of eliminations. Since his departure, the team has lost three straight.

Vargas said he would’ve stayed longer if not for pressing business commitments back home. He promised to return in the event at least one Filipino fighter makes it to the finals.

“We’re very proud of our boys,” said Vargas. “It was an encouraging start considering the quality of opposition. But we still have a long way to go in preparing for the London Olympics.”

The ultimate goal is to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. In 2012, boxing will welcome females to the Olympics for the first time and Vargas said it enhances the medal chances of the Philippines considering that at the Women’s World Championships in Ningbo City last year, lightbantamweight Annie Albania brought home a silver medal while pinweight Josie Gabuco and flyweight Analissa Cruz bagged a bronze each.

ABAP chairman Manny V. Pangilinan has put up a P12 million reward for the Filipino fighter – male or female – to win an Olympic gold medal in London.

Crucial in the country’s preparations is international exposure. This year, the Philippines participated in only one foreign competition – the King’s Cup in Bangkok last April – before campaigning at the World Championships. Nine fighters, however, were brought to Havana for a 2 1/2- week training through the Philippine Sports Commission.

ABAP secretary-general Patrick Gregorio, who flew here to monitor the progress of the team and establish links with his global counterparts, said he hopes to arrange reciprocal training programs for the fighters. Australia, for instance, is sending a squad of junior and senior fighters to train with the Philippine team in Baguio City on Oct. 10-24. Gregorio said the Australians may be invited to participate in the North and South Luzon regional open as guests during their visit. In return, the Philippines is expected to be invited to train in Canberra where the Australian boxing team is based.

National coach Pat Gaspi said the fighters’ morale shot up sky high when Vargas and Gregorio arrived to show support. Vargas watched all the Filipino fighters’ bouts during his stay. He promised a bonus of $100 for every win plus $50 each for Gaspi and assistant coach Ronald Chavez aside from allocating P250,000 for a bronze, P500,000 for a silver and P1 million for a gold.

“I find an advocacy in boxing more than in basketball,” said Vargas who is also SBP vice chairman. “That’s because most, if not all, our fighters are from the grassroots, trying to work their way out of poverty. It’s not difficult to motivate our fighters to give it their all for our country.”

Vargas said a concern is to develop the next generation of fighters. “We are addressing the issue of the future today,” he continued. “We’ll go down to the grassroots. We’re introducing boxing in the school leagues and we’re moving forward with our four regional tournaments culminating in the National Open. But foreign exposure is essential and we’ll try to maximize with the help of the Philippine Sports Commission.”

The night before he left, Vargas hardly slept as he discussed the ABAP’s plans with Gregorio, executive director Ed Picson, Gaspi and Chavez until early morning.

Picson said he is now arranging a training schedule for the women’s team, possibly in India, and a similar program for the men’s squad in Mongolia or China. The immediate objective is to gear up for the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Laos late this year.

Picson said the Laos organizers are limiting each country to send in a maximum of six male and four female fighters in the coming SEA Games. There are 10 weight divisions for males and six for females.

Vargas said the ABAP is still studying the possibility of joining the AIBA’s soon-to-be-launched World Series of Boxing, a professional league where fighters remain eligible for the Olympics. The franchise fee of $500,000 and an additional amount to operate a team on a home-and-away basis appear to be prohibitive. Vargas said he has been approached by AIBA officials asking if Filipino fighters may be drafted by World Series franchises as “imports.”

Donaire in stable condition after bout with dengue

MANILA, Philippines - World Boxing Association (WBA) champion Nonito Donaire remained confined at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa a day after he was brought in due to high fever. Initial blood tests showed signs of dengue.

The boxer himself texted The STAR last night, saying that while “signs of dengue platelets have dropped, my temperature (at 40 degrees Thursday evening) is going up and down.”

The reigning world champion said he’s still on IV (intravenous) and will remain confined at the hospital for another day.

“Thanks for all your prayers but this fight is not over yet,” said Donaire, just weeks after he defeated Panama’s Rafael Concepcion in Las Vegas.

Manager Cameron Dunkin says a regimen of intravenous fluids helped to reduce the fighter’s fever, which dropped to 100 degrees (38 degrees C) on Thursday after climbing above 104 (40).

Donaire’s wife, Rachel, thinks the boxer likely contracted the fever from a mosquito bite. More than 50 million people per year are believed to be affected by dengue fever, found largely in the tropics.

“Some people don’t react to it, some people do,” Dunkin said. “Rachel told me, ‘It can be dangerous, but we caught it very early and we got him in.”’

Donaire (22-1, 14 KOs) was the IBF flyweight champion before moving up to 115 pounds (52 kilograms). He hasn’t lost since his second professional bout in March 2001, most notably knocking out Vic Darchinyan to claim the IBF 112-pound (50-kilogram) title.

Despite the health scare, Donaire and his wife intend to remain in the Philippines for another month, Dunkin said. Donaire could have his next fight in early December, but he’s filling the time in between by singing on a Filipino television reality show, meeting politicians and doing charity work.

He also met with Manny Pacquiao, the pound-for-pound champion who hasn’t begun training for his Nov. 14 bout with Miguel Cotto.

Donaire and Pacquiao are major celebrities in the Philippines, but their trainers and promoters at Top Rank sometimes see both fighters’ focus wander under their native land’s spotlight.

No rift with Roach: Pacman prefers Baguio training for Cotto tiff

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao yesterday cleared the air as to where and when he’d like to start training for his upcoming fight with Puerto Rican champion Miguel Cotto.

Pacquiao also said there’s no rift between him and his chief trainer, Freddie Roach, and they’d finalize the training schedule during the fight’s press tour next week.

Then the reigning pound-for-pound champion said Baguio remains as his choice as training headquarters. In fact, he said his Filipino trainer, Buboy Fernandez, is now up in Baguio.

“He’s up there to check the facilities,” said Pacquiao of the country’s summer capital, chilly most of the year, around 150 miles north of Manila and 1,500 meters above sea level.

Roach said Baguio is not an ideal place to train because of the distractions (too many fans and tourists), and has offered a secluded resort in Toluca, Mexico, instead.

Bob Arum of Top Rank wants Vancouver, but in the end it’s Pacquiao who makes the call, and as it is, it’s Baguio for the main bulk of his training for the Nov. 14 title fight with Cotto.

Pacquiao said he will discuss things with Roach when they hook up next week for the press tour in New York, Puerto Rico, San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.

“Then maybe from there he can come along with me, and we’d start training in Baguio. It won’t be short. Kailangan niya pumunta dito (He needs to come here),” said Pacquiao.

He said eight weeks should be enough to get him in top shape for the fight, and said the last three weeks he might move to the Wild Card Gym in LA for the final push.

“I understand our countrymen or my fans feeling worried about my training. I want to assure them that I’m not taking it for granted. I know myself. I know that eight weeks should do it,” he added.

Pacquiao faced the press yesterday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Ortigas and announced his latest partnership with Solar Sports, led by Wilson Tieng and Peter Chanliong, regarding a new promotional outfit.

Together, they’re setting up an outfit that would help promote more Filipino fighters for fights overseas.

“Basically we’ll engage in the business of production, promotion and distribution of boxing shows to the world market, not only here in the Philippines. We have a lot of boxers who can fight on an international scale,” said Chanliong.

The Solar Sports chief operating officer said the outfit, which will be named soon, will not have any direct clash with the Manny Pacquiao Promotions which “has its own business.”

Chanliong said that in the new outfit, Pacquiao will be the “chairman and the boss” and that we’ll help “Manny make more money” as if Pacquiao is not yet close to being a Filipino billionaire.

“More money?” Pacquiao cut in.

He also said he’s now at 150 lb which is just five pounds off the catchweight agreed upon by both boxers.

“No problem,” he added, just enough to assure everyone that there’s really none.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao got another promotion in the army reserve force, this time being installed as sergeant major of his unit.

From being a master sergeant, Pacquiao was promoted to the rank of senior master sergeant, the second highest rank for enlisted personnel.

“Master Sgt. Manny Pacquiao was given the rank of Sergeant Major for the 15th Ready Reserve Division of the Philippine Army,” said Lt. Col. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos, army spokesman.

Pacquiao was also awarded the Outstanding Achievement Medal for the honor he has given the country in his past fights and serving as inspirations for many of the Filipinos, Burgos said.

In his speech, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, who also attended the event, said that the boxing champ, instead of joining other civic organizations decided to “volunteer for Team AFP and don the military uniform where he could be of service to the country.”

He said that his fights are no longer a quest for personal achievement, but for the honor of the country that is truly proud of his feats in sports.

“Even groups who are fighting against each other stop just to watch Manny fight,” he said. with report from James Mananghaya.

24 amateur boxers see action at Mandaue Plaza tonight

TWENTY-four amateur boxers will wage war anew as the Mayor Jonas Cortes Boxing at the Park Amateur Series returns to the Mandaue Plaza Square tonight at 6 p.m.

Nine fighters coming from the Phil-Aust Boxing Gym (PABG) of Opao Mandaue City, six from the Flores Boxing Club (FBC) of Alang-Alang, four from Sanai Boxing Club (SBC) of Maguikay and a handful of school-based fighters will once again test their skills in 10 different weight categories.

Jerry Soreño Jr. of FBC will open the hostilities against Exel Mogar of PABG in the 20-kilogram match. Michael Cuizon of FBC will trade leathers with Kent Mike Tuñacao of PABG, while Ramel Casa-ñares of Pit-os takes on Richard Rama of PABG for the 25 kg. bouts.

The fights under the 30kg weight class are that of Miguel Semblante of PABG and Junreil Legaspe of FBC, and Melmark Dignos of FBC and Jeffrey Stela of PABG.

The other matches today will be between Ro-nald Velasquez of Caban-calan NHS and Eljun Alegado of PABG in the 37kgs class; Jason Tuña-cao of PABG and Uelmark Dignos of FBC in the 39kgs division; Eford Pesales of SBC and Kevin Jake Catara of Talamban NHS in the 42 kg. weight class.

Also competing today are Ferde San Roque of Cabancalan NHS and Jerry Baoga of SBC in the 44 kg. class; Joedel Talle of Alang-Alang and Sherwin Caday of SBC in the 50 kg. weight; Jundel Siaton of PABG and Juan Legaspi of FBC in the 54 kg. division; and Robert Etorma of Sibonga, Cebu and on Roldan Asero of PABG in the 60kgs weight class.

Another Filipino advances in world boxing finals

MILAN - Team Philippines maintained its strong start when it sent another fighter to the next round of the 15th Aiba World Amateur Boxing championships at the Mediolanum Forum.

Featherweight Charly Suarez joins other Filipino pugs Joan Tipon and Genebert Basadre to the round-of-32 after acing his first-round match defeating a much taller Romanian Iulian Stan, 18-8.

“Nilabanan ko ng sabayan kahit na mas malaki siya. Buti nagsitama ang mga suntok ko,” said Suarez after the victory—the most convincing so far by the five-member Filipino squad in the 144-nation tournament.

“Both his defense and offense were good. Even if his opponent is bigger, his jabs did not connect because of Charly’s defense,’’ said head coach Pat Gaspi.

The 21-year-old Suarez, who is on his fifth year as a member of the national team, joined lightflyweight Tañamor, bantamweight Tipon and light welterweight Basadre in the next round.

Among the three, Tañamor, the two-time Olympian, had the easiest time as he advanced to the next round after enjoying a first-round bye. His first match will be against Hoyhannes Danielyan.

Basadre, a 5-1winner over Pakistan’s Aamir Khan Tuesday, is set to meet Brazilian Myke Carvajo in the next round of the light welterweight division.

Tipon, who debuted with a scrambling 8-3 decision over Sri Lanka’s Kamal Gamaethira-lalage, will face Algerian Abdelhalim Ouradi.

The 5-foot-6 Suarez, who was discovered in the National Open in 2003 in Tagbilaran, Bohol, built a 4-2 lead in the first round and kept padding it as he repeatedly out hit the Romanian.

In the third and final round, he came away with a couple of 1-2 combinations as the clock expired.

Suarez will be fighting another taller opponent in the next round. He is set to battle South Korea’s Joo Min Jae.

The unorthodox Joo, who is about five inches taller than Suarez, used his height to good use to escape with a 9-2 decision over Etonia’s Vladimir Nikiforov.

Dead air irks Roach

WORLD-renowned boxing trainer Freddie Roach is worried about the lack of communication between him and his prized student, Manny Pacquiao, and he blames Pacquiao adviser Michael Koncz for this.

Roach is concerned that he hasn’t talked with Pacquiao about the details on when they will start training for the Nov. 14 clash with World Boxing Organization welterweight champion Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“I’m a little pissed off to be honest with you (about) the lack of communication,” said Roach in a report posted at abs-cbnnews.com. “I know I’m a realist, I know boxing.

Mike Koncz made a comment that we don’t need to talk to Freddie, he’s only the trainer. Well, Mike Koncz, I’m the only one in the (Pacquiao) camp that knows boxing and knows the sport,” blasted Roach. “If they don’t want me to be the trainer anymore, that’s fine with me. Do it yourself.”

Roach’s last chat with Pacquiao was three weeks ago.

Roach wants a date for the start of their training because he believes that they need to take Cotto seriously because he is a tough opponent for the 30-year-old pound-for-pound king.

“Anyone who thinks this fight is easy is a fool. He’s going to be at his best,” said Roach. “I’ve been studying this guy, watching his fights, I have a good strategy in mind and we just have to implement it now,” he added.

Unlike Roach, Koncz isn’t bothered at all as he believes that Pacquiao is still on the dot in his preparation for Cotto.

“There are plans for Manny, everything is on schedule. Manny started jogging on Monday, he will start training in Baguio for one week after the presscon,” said Koncz.

Pacquiao and Cotto will both be fighting for the WBO welterweight title and the prestigious World Boxing Council Diamond belt.

If Pacquiao comes out victorious and wins his seventh division world title, he will be overtaking the record of legendary Oscar de la Hoya, who he is tied with at six division world title.

Donaire confined due to high fever

MANILA, Philippines - Nonito Donaire was taken to the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa last night due to high fever, more than two weeks after he defeated Panama’s Rafael Concepcion and became the WBA Interim super-flyweight champion.

Donaire’s wife, Rachel, told The STAR that Donaire started feeling ill the other night, and took some medication. He was in bed practically the whole day yesterday and when his fever reached 40 degrees he was taken to the hospital.

Rachel said doctors are performing several tests on the 26-year-old boxer, and as of presstime there’s no word yet on his condition.

“They’re doing some blood tests on him. Right now they don’t know what’s wrong with him except that his running a very high fever,” said Rachel, who’s hoping that it’s nothing more than a case of the flu.