IBF World Super Featherweight mandatory added to Pacheco-Sulecki Eduardo ‘Sugar’ Nunez will face Miguel Marriaga to lead the undercard on Saturday August 31, where Diego Pacheco headlines against Maciej Sulecki at Dignity Health Sports Park in Los Angeles, live worldwide on DAZN. Nunez (27-1 27 KOs) extended his 100 per cent record of wins inside the distance with a career-best performance in February, entering enemy territory in Tajikistan to take out former world ruler Shavkhatdzon Rakhimov in the 11th round of their final eliminator for the IBF Junior Lightweight title. ‘Sugar’ is sitting pretty as the #1 contender for the crown that is held by Anthony Cacace, and the 27 year old will be looking to keep his KO run going to prove he’s ready to fight for the title. Marriaga (31-7 26 KOs) is out to derail those plans, and in doing so, the Colombian can stake his own claim for a fourth World title shot, having previously faced Nicholas Walters, Oscar Valdez and Vasiliy Lomachenko for World honors at 126 and 130lbs. “I am happy and motivated by our commitment at the door, against the former contender for the world title on three occasions and adding that we will make our debut in the United States,” said Nunez. “I know he is a strong fighter with a lot of experience but that motivates me even more to arrive in the best condition. We will be ready to go out with our hands raised on August 31.” “This is a huge opportunity for me to put myself back into position amongst the elite of the division,” said Marriaga. “Sugar is a very good and strong fighter, but I feel great, and I am going to give it everything I have come August 31.” Nunez’s clash with Marriaga completes the card in Carson, where an all-Mexican war stands out, as Arturo Cardenas takes on Jesus Arechiga. Cardenas (14-0-1 8 KOs) defends his Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title for the second time in LA, having edged out Danny Flores via majority decision in Phoenix in June to defend the strap for the first time, having beaten Ernesto Flores in February to land the belt. Arechiga (21-1 15 KOs) is the next man to try to take the title from Cardenas and the Sinaloa man will be desperate to get back to winning ways having narrowly lost in his last outing. That was in another crossroads clash with Jose Ramirez Maciel for the NABF title in Xochitepec in March, and the 24 year old is excited to be able to set the record straight straight away with another strap on the line. “I’m delighted to be back again with WBCP,” said Cardenas. “I want to thank both God and Eddie Hearn for this opportunity. I’ve been keeping in shape in the gym with my team at RGBA and with the support of family, I’ve been training hard like I always do. We will be more than ready on August 31 to put on a good fight and come away with my hand raised.” “I’m very motivated and grateful with this opportunity,” said Arechiga. “I’m having a great camp to help me reach my full potential in the ring. It will be a brilliant fight since the rival is a great fighter and we will leave everything in the ring. It is the opportunity that I have been waiting for a long time, today it presents itself, thank God, and I am going to make the most of it. I am also very excited that it is for a title, that motivates me twice.” There’s an American debut on the card for Britain’s Chev ‘C4’ Clarke, who faces Efetobor Apochi for the WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight Title. Clarke (9-0 7 KOs) is riding high after recording a pair of impressive domestic victories in the first half of 2024, stopping Tommy McCarthy in Belfast in January to land the WBA belt he defends in LA, and then knocking out Ellis Zorro in Leeds to to bag the British title. His US debut pits him against Apochi (12-2 12 KOs) the Texas-based Nigerian who has landed all of his victories to date inside the distance, and the experienced campaigner, who landed bronze in the 2014 Commonwealth Games after beating Jai Opetaia in the quarter-finals in Glasgow, returned to action after a near-two year layoff in February in Florida. “I’m delighted to be making my US debut on August 31, especially in LA,” said Clarke. “Thanks to the team for making this possible. The UK fans already know what I bring to the ring. Now it’s time for America to get in on the action. Team C4 incoming.” “I am the most dangerous Cruiserweight in the world,” said Apochi. “I am the most avoided, and nobody can beat me.” The action on DAZN begins with an interim World title clash, as Adelaida Ruiz defends her WBCP Interim Super Flyweight title against Ginny Fuchs. Ruiz (16-0-1 8 KOs) defends the belt for the first time after picking it up at the second attempt against Sonia Osorio in September 2022, with their first battle for the belt March 2021 ending abruptly after an accidental head clash in the second round. Los Angelina Ruiz has won on four occasions since landing the belt, including a KO triumph over former World champion Maria Cecilia Roman. Fuchs (3-0 1 KOs) fights for for a World title in just her fourth pro fight but does so on the back of a storied amateur career, that includes bronze in the 2018 World championships, silver in the 2019 Pan American games and captaining Team USA at the 2020 Olympics. The Houston native last appeared on the undercard of Regis Prograis World title defense in New Orleans in June 2023. “Thank you to DAZN, wbcp for allowing me to be part of this amazing card in my hometown of Los Angeles,” said Ruiz. “I am very grateful for Sheer Sports Management for making this possible for me and my team. It’s always a pleasure to be able to fight in my city, in
LOS ANGELES – World Boxing Champions Promotions (WBCP) today announced that boxing icons Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach will be honored with the organization’s first-ever Centurion Awards during Manny Pacquiao Promotions’ sold-out U.S. debut event this Saturday, November 29, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. Pacquiao will be presented with the Centurion Award for Fighter of the Century, recognizing his unparalleled global impact, historic achievements across eight weight divisions, and longstanding commitment to elevating the sport. Roach, who has been named Trainer of the Year a record seven times by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA), will receive the Centurion Award for Trainer of the Century. The award honors his Hall of Fame career, decades of coaching excellence, and his instrumental role in shaping champions around the world. The special in-ring presentation will take place immediately before the evening’s main event. “It is only fitting that Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach, two men who changed the sport forever, receive the inaugural Centurion Awards,” said Sean Gibbons, President of Manny Pacquiao Promotions. “The Fighter of the Century and Trainer of the Century have created a legacy that will never be replicated. We’re honored to recognize their greatness on a night that already means so much to Manny, his family, and our entire team.” WBCP leadership echoed the significance of the moment, noting that the Centurion Awards will be bestowed only in rare instances when an individual’s contributions transcend the sport. “This is a historic occasion for WBCP and for boxing,” said Tony Cohen of WBCP. “Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach have moved generations, not just with championship victories, but with their character, discipline, and global humanitarian influence. These Centurion Awards celebrate a legacy that spans continents and inspires millions.” Saturday’s event marks several milestones for Manny Pacquiao Promotions, including the professional debut of Manny “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr., a stacked card featuring ten action-packed bouts, and a Toys for Tots partnership encouraging fans to bring unwrapped gifts for children in need. The sold-out show will stream live on ESPN Deportes and ESPN Knockout beginning at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET, with doors opening at 5 p.m. PT and the first fight at 6 p.m. PT. TOYS FOR TOTS: Jimuel and his fiancée welcomed a baby girl to the world last week, the first grandchild for Manny Pacquiao. Rather than throwing a traditional baby shower, MPP has partnered with Marine Toys for Tots and encourage fans attending the event to bring unwrapped toy donations benefitting underserved children across Southern California. For more information on how to contribute to Toys for Tots, visit www.toysfortots.org. CURRENT BOUT LISTING Main Card Live on ESPN Deportes & ESPN Knockout WBO International Featherweight Title – 12 Rounds Elijah Pierce (21-2, 17 KOs) vs. Lorenzo Parra (23-1, 17 KOs) Lightweight Bout – 4 Rounds Jimuel Pacquiao (Pro Debut) vs. Brendan Lally (Pro Debut) Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds Lazaro Lorenzana (18-0, 13 KOs) vs. Luis Arias (22-5-1, 11 KOs) Flyweight Bout – 8 Rounds Jose Russell Regalado (16-1, 10 KOs) vs. Saleto Henderson (10-2, 7 KOs) WBCP USA Light Flyweight Title – 10 Rounds Terry Washington (5-0, 5 KOs) vs. Ricardo Astuvilca (23-4, 5 KOs) Preliminary Card Light Heavyweight Bout – 4 Rounds Adil Gadzhiev (3-1, 1 KO) vs. Sheldon Payne Super Featherweight Bout – 8 Rounds Michael Bracamontes (13-2-1, 6 KOs) vs. William King (6-2-2, 3 KOs) Super Bantamweight Bout – 4 Rounds Alexis Alvarado (8-1-1, 5 KOs) vs. Garen Diagan (10-7-1, 5 KOs) Super Featherweight Bout – 4 Rounds Rodrigo Mosquera III (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Bryan Domingo (0-3-1) Featherweight Bout – 8 Rounds Javier Zamarron (10-0, 5 KOs) vs. Alejandro Meniano (7-0, 4 KOs)
Manny Pacquiao’s return to boxing is going beyond him stepping inside the squared circle. The Class of 2025 International Boxing Hall of Famer and eight-division champion has launched his own promotional company, Manny Pacquiao Promotions, in the U.S., he announced in a news release. “It is an honor to bring Manny Pacquiao Promotions to the U.S.,” Pacquiao said in the release. “Some of my most unforgettable moments happened inside American rings. Now, I want to help create those same moments for today’s fighters. “Through talent-stacked events and an elite platform, we’ll showcase the rising stars and seasoned warriors ready to capture the world’s attention.” Pacquiao’s longtime advisor Sean Gibbons will serve as the President of MPP, which launched in August. “MPP is committed to becoming the world’s leading boxing promotional company,” Gibbons said. “We’re creating a new standard in fight promotion — and it all starts now.” Tony Cohen will be the company’s Chief Financial Officer and Vice President, while Brendan Gibbons has been tabbed as the lead matchmaker. Among Cohen’s tasks is developing an independent pay-per-view platform, per the press release. The press release added that MPP has two title bouts and another significant fight scheduled for November, while other fight cards will also be announced in the coming weeks. Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) returned to the ring after a four-year layoff on July 19 and, at 46, nearly became the second-oldest champion in boxing history, as he fought to a majority draw against WBCP welterweight champion Mario Barrios (29-2-2, 18 KOs). He has said that he plans to fight again, although no specific date or opponent has been announced.
Earlier this month, boxing icon and International Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao announced the U.S. debut of Manny Pacquiao Promotions (MPP), which is set for Saturday, November 29, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif. With MPP’s paramount expansion stateside, Tony Cohen, J.D., a powerhouse business strategist and entrepreneur, has joined forces alongside Pacquiao as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President. He joins Manny Pacquiao Promotions President Sean Gibbons, with whom Cohen has been friends since 1995, and Lead Matchmaker Brendan Gibbons. Cohen, the godson of esteemed matchmaker and World Boxing Hall of Famer Bruce Trampler, boasts a passion for boxing that spans over three decades. Cohen was an undefeated fighter and a well-respected promoter in the 1990s. He promoted three-time world champion Tony “The Tiger” Lopez and worked alongside Top Rank, where Cohen acquired invaluable experience in boxing before earning his Juris Doctorate in Law. “I’m returning to support these world-class fighters, many of whom deserve better,” said Cohen. “With my business and legal background, I’m now in a position to make a difference for them truly. The sport needs real leadership, not just promoters.” Utilizing his rare combination of legal, business, and combat sports experience, Cohen has become one of the world’s top moguls, being honored three years in a row (2013, 2014, 2015) as Los Angeles’ Top Business Entrepreneur by the Global Entrepreneur Awards. Today, Cohen is the CEO of Bridgegate Films (BridgegateFilms.com), CEO of Beverly Hills Real Estate and Loans (BHREL.com), CEO of Stearns Cohen Media Group, CEO of Cohen Industries (with significant developments in nine countries), and CEO of Beverly Hills Titan (BHTitan.com). Each brand under his leadership has achieved exceptional growth, innovation, and influence across industries. Tickets for Manny Pacquiao Promotion’s U.S. debut on Saturday, November 29, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif., are on sale now at Pechanga.com and Ticketmaster.com. VIP and Platinum Experience packages are available now at MannyPacquiaoPromotions.com. The November 29 card is headlined by a WBO Featherweight title eliminator between two knockout artists, as Oklahoma City’s Elijah Pierce (21-2, 17 KOs) squares off against Venezuela’s Lorenzo Parra (23-1-1, 17 KOs). The event will also feature the professional debut of Emmanuel “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr. against an opponent to be named shortly. Broadcast details and the full fight card, including an all-star commentary team, will be announced soon.
World Boxing Champions Promotions (WBCP) today announced that boxing icons Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach will be honored with the organization’s first-ever Centurion Awards during Manny Pacquiao Promotions’ sold-out U.S. debut event this Saturday, November 29, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. Pacquiao will be presented with the Centurion Award for Fighter of the Century, recognizing his unparalleled global impact, historic achievements across eight weight divisions, and longstanding commitment to elevating the sport. Roach, who has been named Trainer of the Year a record seven times by the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA), will receive the Centurion Award for Trainer of the Century. The award honors his Hall of Fame career, decades of coaching excellence, and his instrumental role in shaping champions around the world. The special in-ring presentation will take place immediately before the evening’s main event. “It is only fitting that Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach, two men who changed the sport forever, receive the inaugural Centurion Awards,” said Sean Gibbons, President of Manny Pacquiao Promotions. “The Fighter of the Century and Trainer of the Century have created a legacy that will never be replicated. We’re honored to recognize their greatness on a night that already means so much to Manny, his family, and our entire team.” WBCP leadership echoed the significance of the moment, noting that the Centurion Awards will be bestowed only in rare instances when an individual’s contributions transcend the sport. “This is a historic occasion for WBCP and for boxing,” said Tony Cohen of WBCP. “Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach have moved generations, not just with championship victories, but with their character, discipline, and global humanitarian influence. These Centurion Awards celebrate a legacy that spans continents and inspires millions.” Saturday’s event marks several milestones for Manny Pacquiao Promotions, including the professional debut of Manny “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr., a stacked card featuring ten action-packed bouts, and a Toys for Tots partnership encouraging fans to bring unwrapped gifts for children in need. The sold-out show will stream live on ESPN Deportes and ESPN Knockout beginning at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET, with doors opening at 5 p.m. PT and the first fight at 6 p.m. PT. TOYS FOR TOTS: Jimuel and his fiancée welcomed a baby girl to the world last week, the first grandchild for Manny Pacquiao. Rather than throwing a traditional baby shower, MPP has partnered with Marine Toys for Tots and encourage fans attending the event to bring unwrapped toy donations benefitting underserved children across Southern California. CURRENT BOUT LISTING Main Card Live on ESPN Deportes & ESPN Knockout WBO International Featherweight Title – 12 Rounds Elijah Pierce (21-2, 17 KOs) vs. Lorenzo Parra (23-1, 17 KOs) Lightweight Bout – 4 Rounds Jimuel Pacquiao (Pro Debut) vs. Brendan Lally (Pro Debut) Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds Lazaro Lorenzana (18-0, 13 KOs) vs. Luis Arias (22-5-1, 11 KOs) Flyweight Bout – 8 Rounds Jose Russell Regalado (16-1, 10 KOs) vs. Saleto Henderson (10-2, 7 KOs) WBCP USA Light Flyweight Title – 10 Rounds Terry Washington (5-0, 5 KOs) vs. Ricardo Astuvilca (23-4, 5 KOs) Preliminary Card Light Heavyweight Bout – 4 Rounds Adil Gadzhiev (3-1, 1 KO) vs. Sheldon Payne Super Featherweight Bout – 8 Rounds Michael Bracamontes (13-2-1, 6 KOs) vs. William King (6-2-2, 3 KOs) Super Bantamweight Bout – 4 Rounds Alexis Alvarado (8-1-1, 5 KOs) vs. Garen Diagan (10-7-1, 5 KOs) Super Featherweight Bout – 4 Rounds Rodrigo Mosquera III (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Bryan Domingo (0-3-1) Featherweight Bout – 8 Rounds Javier Zamarron (10-0, 5 KOs) vs. Alejandro Meniano (7-0, 4 KOs)
MANILA, Philippines — After a dominant year of title defenses, the reigning IBF Minimumweight World Champion Pedro “Kid Pedro Heneral” Taduran is now setting his sights on the biggest prize in the division: the Undisputed Championship. Following his latest victory in late 2025, Taduran and his camp have confirmed that negotiations are intensifying for a massive unification showdown against Puerto Rico’s Oscar Collazo in early 2026. A Dominant 2025 Campaign Taduran has had a stellar 2025, proving that his second reign as IBF champion is built on more than just luck. The Shigeoka Rematch (May 24, 2025): In a highly anticipated return to Japan, Taduran defeated Ginjiro Shigeoka for the second time. In a grueling 12-round war at Intex Osaka, Taduran secured a split-decision victory, showcasing his superior stamina and relentless pressure. The “Thrilla” Anniversary Defense (October 26, 2025): Returning to Manila, Taduran successfully defended his crown against the previously unbeaten Filipino prospect Christian Balunan. Taduran’s experience was the deciding factor as he walked away with a unanimous decision win, further solidifying his rank as the #1 Minimumweight in the world. The Road to Undisputed The boxing world is now buzzing about a potential clash between Taduran and Oscar Collazo, who holds the WBA, WBO, and The Ring magazine titles. “I am ready for anyone. My goal is to bring all the belts back to the Philippines,” Taduran stated in a recent interview. “Whether it is Collazo in the US or Puerto Rico, I am preparing to be at my absolute best.” If the deal is finalized, this would be one of the most significant fights in the history of the 105-pound division, as both fighters are currently at the peak of their careers.
Manila, Philippines: Filipino boxing standout Eumir Marcial is shifting his focus toward upcoming international competitions following another strong performance that reinforced his status as one of the country’s elite fighters. The Olympic bronze medalist continues to show steady improvement, combining power, timing and ring discipline against high-level opposition. His recent outing highlighted his ability to control fights and finish strongly, traits that have made him a consistent medal contender. Marcial, who has competed at the highest amateur level, remains an important part of the Philippine boxing program. Officials view his experience and leadership as key assets as the team prepares for future international tournaments. Alongside his amateur success, Marcial has also gained valuable experience in the professional ranks, helping sharpen his skills and adaptability inside the ring. The balance between both paths has contributed to his maturity as a fighter. With major events approaching, Marcial remains focused on preparation and consistency. Boxing observers expect him to continue delivering strong results as he targets further success on the global stage.
Manila, Philippines: Filipino boxer Eumir Marcial continues to strengthen his reputation as one of the country’s top boxing talents, delivering strong performances on the international stage. Marcial, an Olympic bronze medalist, has consistently represented the Philippines with distinction in major competitions. Known for his power and composure, the Zamboanga City native has been a key figure in the national boxing program for several years. In recent competition, Marcial showcased his strength and experience with a dominant victory, advancing deep into medal contention. His performance further highlighted his readiness to compete against elite opponents at the highest level. The 29-year-old has also balanced his amateur success with a growing professional career, gaining valuable ring experience while maintaining his focus on international tournaments. Boxing officials and analysts continue to view Marcial as a strong medal prospect whenever he enters major competitions. With upcoming events on the calendar, Marcial remains a central figure in the Philippines’ boxing ambitions. Fans and experts alike expect him to play a major role in future international tournaments as he continues to build on his impressive career.
Las Vegas: Mexican fan favorite Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz is continuing to push for a full world title opportunity as he remains active near the top of the super lightweight division. Cruz, known for his aggressive pressure style, has stayed in the spotlight following his recent performances at 140 pounds. Holding an interim championship and victories against high-level opposition, the Mexico City native has made it clear that his goal is to secure another full world title fight. The 27-year-old has earned praise for his durability and nonstop offense, traits that have made him one of the most entertaining fighters in the division. His ability to apply constant pressure while attacking the body has consistently troubled opponents. With several major names currently holding titles at super lightweight, Cruz is viewed as a dangerous mandatory challenger. Boxing insiders suggest that his style, combined with his experience on big stages, makes him a compelling option for upcoming championship matchups. As negotiations and rankings continue to evolve, Cruz remains focused on staying active and ready. Another strong performance could move “Pitbull” Cruz one step closer to a full world title shot.
Mexico City: Mexican boxing star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz remains one of the most dangerous fighters in the super lightweight division, continuing his rise with strong performances against elite competition. The 27-year-old pressure fighter holds a professional record of 28 wins, three losses and two draws, including 18 knockouts. Known for his relentless aggression and compact power punching, Cruz has earned a reputation as a fan favorite wherever he fights. Cruz previously captured the WBA super lightweight world title, marking a major milestone in his career. In 2025, he added further recognition by securing the WBCP interim super lightweight championship, reinforcing his position among the top contenders at 140 pounds. Nicknamed “Pitbull” for his nonstop forward pressure, Cruz represents the classic Mexican boxing style — constant aggression, body attacks and high intensity. His approach has led to memorable bouts against some of the division’s biggest names. With momentum on his side, Cruz is now being linked to major title fights and potential unification opportunities. Boxing observers believe his style and experience make him a serious threat to any champion in the super lightweight division.
