by Robert Louis Pangilinan
VIGAN , ILOCOS SUR -- The much-awaited Sagupaan sa Ilocos Sur at the very first Kannawidan Boxing Cup will push boxing fans at the edge of their seats on February 7 at the Sto. Domingo Coliseum, Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur.
The big boxing brawl is made possible by Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Singson with the coordination of Elorde Ilocos Sur Promotions and is a highlight at the celebration of the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival 2020.
“We all know that Ilocanos are brave. And our Filipino boxers have brought honor to our country. This first boxing cup is a tribute to them as well as a symbol of the epic courage of Filipinos. This will be a yearly event at the Kannawidan,” said Gov. Singson.
Charly Suarez of Davao del Norte faces Dave Barlas of South Cotabato at the main event, the Luzproba Super Featherweight Championship (8 rounds, 130 lbs). At the Luzproba Super Flyweight Championship (8 rds 115 lbs), Ben Fairtex of Ligas ng Elorde Gym/Fairtex versus Joan Imperial of the Johnny Bravo Boxing Gym will fight it out, while Argie Toquero of Elorde Plus BF Paranaque fights against Jimmy Borbon of Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte at the Luzproba Super Flyweight Championship (8 rds, 140 lbs).
In the undercard matches, Ranelio Quizo of Elorde South Box Las Pinas vs John Mark Tihuk of Penalosa Gym Araneta, QC, (8 rds, 115 lbs), Melvin Manaquil of Elorde Plus BF Paranaque vs Robert Ates of Penalosa Soledad Paranaque (6 rds., 112 lbs), Juanito Hondante of Elorde Gym Vigan Ilocos Sur vs Carl Jeffrey Basil of Mabikas Boxing Baguio (6 rds, 108 lbs), and Roy Sumagat of Elorde Plus BF Paranaque vs Richard Morales of 555 Fitness Gym QC, (4 rds, 135 lbs).
A professional Muay Thai clash will have Ken Claude Sarmiento facing Ezekene Estimago (3 rds, 115 lbs), Richard Lachica vs Jomel Celedonio (3 rds, 135 lbs), and Mike Paiz vs Mark Joseph Abrillo (3 rds, 115 lbs.)
The event is supported by boxing Promoter Maria Laureta Elorde, Muay Thai Promoter Francis Amandy and Edmon Dellosa, matchmaker. - Robert Louis Pangilinan
Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Singson (right) enjoys the first Sagupaan sa Ilocos Sur Kannawidan Boxing Cup with Jam Singson (middle) and PhilTAG President Ricky Sta. Ana (left). The much-awaited event will now be a yearly highlight of the Kannawidan Festival.
Photo by Raymond Ngan