World Boxing Champions Promotions
MANILA, Philippines – The San Andres Sports Complex is set to host a massive night for Philippine boxing on October 26. Headlining the first of two “Thrilla in Manila II” shows, heavy-handed IBF Strawweight champion Pedro Taduran will put his world title on the line against the undefeated rising star Robert Balunan.
Pedro Taduran (18-4-1, 13 KOs), currently rated No. 2 by The Ring, is a warrior defined by resilience. After a storied career that saw him win, lose, and then reclaim the IBF throne, Taduran is back on top of the 105-pound division.
His most recent performance was a gritty split-decision victory in May over Ginjiro Shigeoka. While it was a career-defining win, it was marred by tragedy as Shigeoka suffered a brain bleed post-fight. As Shigeoka continues his slow but steady recovery in the hospital, Taduran must now turn his focus to a hungry young challenger on home soil.
For the 25-year-old Robert Balunan (12-0, 7 KOs), this represents a massive leap in competition. Ranked No. 3 by the IBF (with the top two spots currently vacant), the Cebu native has been perfect since turning pro in 2021. With impressive stoppage wins over veterans like Clyde Azarcon and Robert Paradero, Balunan is eager to prove he belongs on the world stage.
The event, promoted by Manny Pacquiao Promotions, features a deep 13-fight card with high-stakes regional matchups:
The Return of Rex Tso: Popular Hong Kong veteran Rex Tso (23-0, 14 KOs) continues his comeback after an eight-year hiatus. He faces India’s Sagar Chouhan (6-0-2, 2 KOs) in a 10-round battle for a regional bantamweight title.
Flyweight Fire: Power-puncher Miel Fajardo (12-3-2, 11 KOs) takes on Esneth Domingo (22-3, 14 KOs). This 10-round clash for a regional flyweight title is expected to be a “fight of the night” contender.