Marck Espejo’s journey from a young Marikina native to one of the Philippines’ most decorated volleyball icons is nothing short of inspiring. His name now echoes across Asian courts as a symbol of excellence and perseverance.Born on March 1, 1997, Espejo discovered his love for volleyball at a young age. His dream began taking shape during his time at Santa Elena High School. Espejo quickly rose through the ranks, securing Best Attacker awards at prestigious tournaments like the 2012 Palarong Pambasa, 2011 Milo Little Olympics, and the 2012 and NCR Volleyball Regional Meet. His exceptional performance quickly put him on the national radar. Ateneo de Manila University saw the potential in the young spiker and brought him in to join the Blue Eagles’ men’s volleyball team. In his UAAP debut during Season 76, Espejo made an immediate impact by claiming both the Rookie of the Year and the Season MVP honors—an extraordinary achievement for a first-year player.That was only the beginning.Espejo spearheaded Ateneo’s championship dynasty from Season 77 to 79, claiming three straight UAAP titles and dominating the individual awards list with multiple Best Attacker, Best Server, Best Scorer, and MVP honors. He closed out his collegiate career with a historic 55-point explosion against FEU in the Season 80 semifinals, cementing his legacy with one of the most remarkable performances in UAAP history.

Another four-time PBA Most Valuable Player takes the spotlight in our series.Alvin “The Captain” Patrimonio captured the league’s highest individual honor in 1991, 1993, 1994, and 1997—becoming only the second player to achieve the feat after “El Presidente” Ramon Fernandez, who won it in 1982, 1984, 1986, and 1988.Patrimonio played his entire 17-year career with just one franchise in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), staying loyal from 1988 to 2004. He became the face of the Purefoods/Magnolia franchise throughout those years, eventually passing the torch to his successors upon retirement.

Manny Pacquiao announced that his long layoff from boxing has reignited his passion as he prepares for his world welterweight title comeback against Mario Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas.The 46-year-old Filipino icon, returning four years after his last fight, is training with veteran coach Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.“Now I’m back, I’m hungry to fight again. I’m hungry to fight in a big fight like this—to work hard, have discipline, everything like that. I’ve missed boxing. I feel the passion, the fire in my eyes, working hard—it’s still there,” Pacquiao said.While he acknowledged that recovery now takes a bit longer, he believes his physical condition remains sharp.“I’m fast, I can move like I did before. I can run in the mountains with the young boxers, so I’m happy. I’m enjoying this training camp. There are a couple of adjustments for bodily recovery. We have to control the body, give it time to rest and recover,” he added.Pacquiao, a 12-time world champion, wouldn’t confirm if his return will be a one-off or the start of a full comeback.“It’s hard to say,” he said when asked about future bouts. “Now I’m back, so one at a time. After this fight, we can plan whatever we want. For now, I’m focused on this fight,” he emphasized.Despite some skepticism—including comments from British promoter Eddie Hearn about the risks of facing the younger Barrios—Pacquiao responded confidently: “Just watch on July 19. It will be a good fight,” he concluded.

Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, the first and only eight-division world champion in the sport’s illustrious history, is set to make a historic return to the ring. At 46 years old, the Filipino legend will face off against current WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the prestigious MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.This comeback is nothing short of monumental—should Pacquiao claim victory over Barrios, he will shatter records by becoming the oldest welterweight world champion, surpassing the milestone he previously set at age 40. Yet standing in his path is a formidable opponent: Barrios, nearly two decades Pacquiao’s junior, brings youthful energy, relentless activity, and significant momentum—a combination that could redefine both fighters’ legacies.As the fight approaches, Pacquiao appears to be in peak condition. In a rare and powerful move, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman recently announced early results from Pacquiao’s anti-doping test, confirming that the former champion tested negative for banned substances under the rigorous WBC Clean Boxing Program.This early release of test results is significant—it underscores Pacquiao’s commitment to integrity in a sport often marred by controversy. Typically, results from the Clean Boxing Program—coordinated by the WBC and the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA)—remain confidential until after the fight. Such disclosures usually follow final testing, which VADA releases post-bout.Sulaiman also highlighted a notable surge in testing activity, with intensified scrutiny worldwide. Fighters enrolled in the Clean Boxing Program undergo random drug testing year-round, face increased monitoring in the 6–12 weeks leading up to a fight, and may be tested in the final 30 days and even on fight day.At this time, there are no public updates regarding Barrios’ test results. It’s worth noting that due to his retirement, Pacquiao had not been included in the program’s ongoing testing pool—making his clean return all the more remarkable.With this proactive announcement of test results, the WBC sends a powerful message: Manny Pacquiao is not only clean, but also primed and prepared to silence doubts about his age, hiatus, or ability to compete at the elite level once again. Boxing fans can anticipate an electrifying showdown that could stand as a testament to enduring greatness.

Down by as many as 18 points, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel still managed to take Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals against the San Miguel Beermen, 73–71, on Wednesday night, June 25, at the Mall of Asia Arena.Scottie Thompson was named Best Player of the Game after tallying 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field, along with eight rebounds, one assist, and a steal.Japeth Aguilar also provided steady production despite being in foul trouble, finishing with a team-high 18 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a block. Jamie Malonzo added 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

 One of the most iconic figures in mixed martial arts history is hanging up his gloves.Jon “Bones” Jones, widely considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, has officially retired, UFC president Dana White confirmed at a press conference on Saturday, June 21.“Jon Jones called us last night and retired. Jon Jones has officially retired,” White announced.“Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” he added.Jones, 37, later confirmed his retirement, posting on X that “this decision comes after a lot of reflection.”“I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways,” he said in his statement. “Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come,” Jones wrote in his post.Discussing the future of the heavyweight division, White confirmed that Tom Aspinall will attend UFC International Fight Week, where crucial decisions about the division’s direction will be made.The highly anticipated prospect of a showdown between Aspinall and Jones has been a major topic within the heavyweight division for months, particularly following Jones' successful title defense against Stipe Miocic in November.Fan demand for the matchup reached a crescendo; a recent petition calling for White to strip Jones of his heavyweight title amassed over 195,000 signatures—a clear indication of public sentiment.Just two weeks ago, White expressed confidence that the fight would happen, revealing that Jones had accepted a deal to face Aspinall, although the contract had yet to be finalized.Jones acknowledged that he doesn’t control the division's direction, admitting he hasn't mapped out his future plans. He even floated the idea of challenging former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou—a scenario White promptly dismissed. This back-and-forth only adds to the intrigue surrounding both fighters and the heavyweight landscape.“Tom Aspinall is the guy. We’ve been talking to this kid forever about it. It’s his fight. You can’t make people fight. If Jon doesn’t want to fight, we can’t make him fight. We can try to make him fight, we can throw things at him that inspire him to want to fight,” White added.Just weeks ago, speculation remained high, with White saying Jones had verbally accepted a bout against Aspinall. Meanwhile, the fan petition calling for Jones to be stripped of his title had amassed over 195,000 signatures, signaling growing frustration over the heavyweight stalemate.While he steps away from active competition, Jones hinted at continued involvement in the sport in a new capacity, suggesting that his journey is far from over—just entering a new phase.Whether through mentorship, promotion, or advocacy, Jones’ influence on MMA is likely to endure far beyond his final walk to the Octagon.

As expected, the Dallas Mavericks selected Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.Flagg is now expected to elevate the Mavericks franchise to new heights following the departure of former franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić, who was traded to Los Angeles before last season's trade deadline.The move to let go of Dončić sparked backlash from fans, but with Flagg now in the fold, there’s renewed optimism in Dallas — especially with a lineup that looks increasingly solid on paper.

Five years ago, Mario Barrios would have been the perfect matchup for eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. At 6’0 tall and not the most agile, Barrios embodies the type of fighter that Pacquiao excelled against in his prime—tall, flat-footed, and susceptible to quick movements and speed.Pacquiao is also the first boxer in history to win major world titles in four of the original eight weight classes of boxing: flyweight, featherweight, lightweight, and welterweight.Throughout his storied career, the 5-foot-5 Filipino superstar consistently took down larger opponents like Oscar De La Hoya and Antonio Margarito, utilizing his signature speed and footwork to deliver quick combinations before slipping away from their reach.However, that was a different time.Now, at 46 years old, Pacquiao hasn’t been in the ring professionally for four years. His last fight—a unanimous decision defeat against Yordenis Ugas in 2021—revealed signs of wear and tear, even against an opponent who seemed like a good fit stylistically.This reality is what casts Pacquiao as an underdog ahead of his much-anticipated comeback against Barrios on July 19 (July 20 in Manila) at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Nevertheless, he shouldn't be underestimated.Justine Fortune, Pacquiao's long-time strength and conditioning coach, believes Pacquiao still has a spark. Fortune expressed high praise for Pacquiao’s recent training sessions in Los Angeles. “Look, on the mitts and bags, they don’t hit back, but he’s looking as sharp as he did six or seven years ago. He hasn’t lost a step,” said Fortune.He also noted that Barrios, while talented, isn’t the hardest target to hit. “Barrios takes a lot of punches, and Pacquiao is definitely the last person you want hitting you like that. Once you take those shots, you can start swelling up, and if he clips you, it could lead to cuts.”And when asked for his prediction? Fortune was straightforward: “I see a stoppage. This fight won’t go the distance.”

Fighting for the first time since his loss to Richardson Hitchins for the IBF super lightweight title last December, Paro forced Jonathan Navarro to retire on his stool after five rounds in their main event bout on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Convention Centre in Cairns, Queensland.The Australian southpaw delivered a devastating overhand left to Navarro (18-2, 9 KOs) with just 45 seconds left in the fifth round. Although Navarro quickly got back on his feet, he became an easy target for Paro’s left hand throughout the remainder of the round.Paro, now with a record of 26-1, 16 KOs, stunned Navarro again in the final 10 seconds of the round. As Navarro returned to his corner, it was clear he was defeated, prompting his trainer to stop the fight during the one-minute break between rounds five and six, granting Paro a victory by TKO in his comeback.Throughout the first four rounds, Paro established dominance with his southpaw jab and effective body shots. He controlled the pace of the match, while Navarro hesitated to engage directly, opting instead to focus on counter-punching.In rounds three and four, Paro began to string his punches together more effectively. As he closed the distance, Navarro showed some willingness to trade, but Paro’s offensive variety consistently gave him the upper hand during exchanges.Now, Paro also has unfinished business. He suffered a controversial split-decision loss to Richardson Hitchins in December — the only blemish on his professional record.“I want to win a world title. I want another belt. I want to avenge my loss. Life has given me the opportunity to move forward and show how much of a champion I am in adversity. I’m ready to prove the critics wrong,” Paro said.

Veteran Japanese fighter Toshihiko Era of Osaka has etched his name into the record books as the oldest boxer to win an Asian boxing championship, after stopping Thailand’s Komgrich Nantapech to capture the WBF (World Boxing Foundation) Asia Flyweight Title in a thrilling bout held in Bangkok.At 50 years old, Era displayed remarkable skill, stamina, and determination—marking a historic milestone for Asian boxing, especially in his home country, Japan.The opening round was evenly matched, but Era, who now holds a record of 26-4-1 with 21 KOs, quickly found his rhythm. By the second and third rounds, he was landing crisp combinations and effectively pressuring Nantapech against the ropes.The contest came to an end at the start of the fourth round when Nantapech’s corner opted not to continue, handing Era a technical stoppage victory.The bout was officiated by referee Kris Sanyadej of Bangkok, with Alvin S. Go of Cavite, Philippines, serving as the official WBF supervisor.Era’s victory is a powerful statement—age is not a limit when discipline, belief, and perseverance are in place. While legends like George Foreman captured a heavyweight world title at 45, and Bernard Hopkins secured the IBF light heavyweight crown at 49, Era has now joined this elite company by becoming the oldest fighter to win an Asian title at 50.His win is more than just a personal triumph—it is a shining example of what can be achieved through faith, healthy living, and relentless dedication.This extraordinary feat is sure to inspire not just aspiring boxers, but athletes and fans across generations. Toshihiko Era’s story is a testament to the unyielding spirit of the sport, proving once again that boxing is as much about heart as it is about youth.Congratulations to the Toshihiko Era on this historic and inspirational victory. The boxing world salutes his perseverance, professionalism, and passion for the sport.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and the Gilas Pilipinas national team are in a holding pattern as they await word from FIBA regarding the status of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup, originally slated to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from August 5 to 17.The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) and Gilas Pilipinas are awaiting word from FIBA officials if the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 will push through in Jeddah as there is a tension rising between Iran and Israel.The tournament’s staging is now uncertain amid growing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the escalating conflict involving Iran and Israel. With safety concerns looming, national federations and participating teams are left in a state of limbo, including the Philippines, which is among the 16 teams set to compete.

Training in sweltering 100-degree heat is about more than just building physical endurance; it’s driven by purpose, passion, and a desire to leave a meaningful legacy.When the sun blazes overhead and every part of you screams to give up, that’s when your true motivation is put to the ultimate test. So the real question is: Are you staying motivated?For Jared “The Monkey God” Brooks, training isn’t only about personal ambition—it’s about the next generation. The 17- and 18-year-olds who carry the same dreams he once held.Brooks has the privilege of shaping their journeys, guiding them, and standing beside them as they strive for greatness. That’s what God desires, and that’s where true fulfillment lies.This journey is not without its challenges. Fatigue, injury, and family pressures weigh heavily. But he made a steadfast commitment: he will stay the course.Nothing and no one will deter him. And that same energy? He shares it generously with anyone prepared to walk this path with the same intensity.Because this isn’t just training. It’s a calling. A long-term commitment.

Former IBF super flyweight world champion Jerwin Ancajas remains focused and in top shape as he anticipates a potential slot on the highly anticipated Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios card on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. While no opponent has been officially announced, Ancajas is training as if the call could come at any moment.“Wala pang binigay na kalaban,” admitted the 33-year-old Ancajas, who has been quietly preparing in Los Angeles alongside fellow Filipino fighters Mark Magsayo and Eumir Marcial—both confirmed to appear on the undercard.Ancajas also shared that, if given the green light, he expects to fight at a catchweight of 123 or 124 pounds—just under the featherweight limit of 126.In January of this year, Ancajas captured the vacant Philippine super bantamweight crown via a second-round stoppage of Richie Mepranum in Iligan. That victory marked his second consecutive win since falling to Japan’s Takuma Inoue via ninth-round TKO in a WBA bantamweight title fight in Tokyo last year. Ancajas reigned for nearly six years as IBF champion in the 115-pound division.Meanwhile, two fellow Filipino fighters are already set to light up the Pacquiao-Barrios undercard. Mark Magsayo (29) will take on Jorge Mata Cuellar of Mexico in a 10-round showdown for the vacant WBC Continental Americas super featherweight title. Magsayo is currently ranked No. 2 by the WBC in the super featherweight division, positioning him just a step away from a possible title shot against reigning champion O’Shaquie Foster.Eumir Marcial (29), returning from Olympic duties, will square off with Alexis Gaytan of Texas in an eight-round middleweight bout. Marcial boasts an unblemished 5-0 pro record with 3 knockouts and is looking to build momentum as he refocuses on his professional boxing career.Cuellar, who’s making his U.S. debut, holds a solid record of 21-2-2 with 13 KOs, including five straight wins. Gaytan, a seasoned veteran, brings a 17-10 record with 6 KOs, having won six of his last seven bouts.With Ancajas staying sharp and ready, the possibility of three Filipino warriors sharing the ring on one of the year’s most anticipated fight cards is closer than ever.

Filipino-American standouts Brooke Van Sickle, MJ Phillips, and Tia Andaya are gearing up for their potential national team debut in the upcoming VTV Cup in Vietnam.This year marks the third consecutive appearance of a Philippine team in the VTV Cup.Alas Women head coach Jorge Souza de Brito expressed that the trio were not able to suit up for the AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup due to pending eligibility requirements under the Philippine Federation.Fortunately, their documentation is reportedly nearing its completion.De Brito also confirmed last week that Van Sickle had already joined the national team’s training alongside Phillips, Andaya, Maddie Madayag, and Alleiah Malaluan. 

The three Filipino fighters on the undercard of Manny Pacquiao’s upcoming comeback in Las Vegas are gaining valuable insights from the former eight-division world champion.Eumir Marcial, Jerwin Ancajas, and Mark Magsayo have been training with Pacquiao during morning runs—absorbing not only his advice but also his winning mindset.Marcial, the Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist, is set to face American Alexis Gaytan in an eight-round bout on July 19.Recently, while observing Pacquiao at the Wild Card Boxing Club, Marcial received tips on delivering powerful left-handed punches and left the gym with newfound knowledge. “I never imagined I would fight on the same night as my idol,” said Marcial, who boasts a 5-0-0 record with three knockouts.Since arriving in Los Angeles over a month ago, Pacquiao has focused on training for Mario Barrios and has welcomed the young fighters into his routine—whether running at Griffith Park or working out in the gym.Gaytan presents a challenge for Marcial as he looks to rebound from an early exit in the Paris Olympics. The American holds a 17-10-0 record. Ancajas and Magsayo are also making the most of training alongside Pacquiao, further sharpening their preparations.For Sean Gibbons, the collaboration between Pacquiao and the younger Filipino fighters is a rare opportunity to blend youthful energy with generational wisdom.“There’s a unique blend of youthful energy and the experience that Manny Pacquiao brings. He’s not just preparing for his own comeback—he’s helping guide the next generation of Filipino champions,” Gibbons shared.As Pacquiao gears up to potentially become the oldest welterweight champion in history, the spotlight is also shining on the Filipino trio poised to make waves on his undercard—learning from the best in their pursuit to become the next.

Despite a blazing start, Filipino tennis ace Alex Eala saw her campaign at the WTA 250 Nottingham Open come to an early end after a 4-6, 3-6 first-round defeat to Poland’s Magda Linette on Tuesday night, June 17.The 20-year-old raced to a 3-0 lead in just seven minutes, but veteran campaigner Linette, ranked No. 31, found her rhythm by the fourth game. The Polish star turned the tide, leveling the match at 3-3 before surging ahead 5-3 and eventually taking the first set.Eala attempted to fight back in the second set, which featured tighter exchanges, with the score knotted at 2-all. However, her opponent’s experience and composure took over once again, as she pulled away to secure the win in one hour and 38 minutes.Meanwhile, Linette advances to the Round of 16, where she awaits the winner between Great Britain’s Mingge Xu and American Katie Volynets.Despite the loss, Eala’s appearance in Nottingham marked her third consecutive grass-court tournament in a matter of two weeks. She previously suffered a first-round exit at the Birmingham Classic and reached the quarterfinals at the Ilkley Open.Eala made it to the Nottingham main draw after winning two matches in the qualifying rounds. She is expected to continue her grass-court campaign in preparation for her debut at the 2025 Wimbledon Championships later this month.

Unbeaten WBC top-ranked junior featherweight contender David Picasso of Mexico has officially joined forces with esteemed advisor Sean Gibbons of Knuckleheads Boxing, who also serves as COO of Manny Pacquiao’s Promotions.In a bold statement, Gibbons voiced his enthusiasm about the potential of both Picasso—set to compete on the undercard of Pacquiao’s highly anticipated return against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19—and the undisputed 122-lb champion Naoya Inoue.Gibbons emphasized that victories from both fighters could pave the way for a monumental showdown between Inoue and Picasso this December in Saudi Arabia.In addition to guiding Picasso, Gibbons also represents former champions Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Mark Magsayo, who are featured on the Pacquiao card. He has also successfully propelled numerous fighters to world titles and defenses, including IBF 130-lb champion Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez, IBF junior bantamweight champion Willibaldo Garcia, IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran, and newly crowned WBC interim flyweight champion Francisco Rodriguez.“I am genuinely thrilled to work with David Picasso. It’s a blessing to collaborate with some of the most significant names in Mexican boxing, and David is on the verge of fighting for Inoue’s belts. I am deeply committed to helping him realize his aspirations,” Gibbons stated.He also expressed gratitude to Al Haymon of Premier Boxing Champions for securing Picasso—whose impressive record stands at 31-0-1 (17 KOs)—a spot on the July 19 card following the withdrawal of another opponent.Gibbons’ remarkable history of guiding a wide array of Mexican fighters to championship glory fuels his confidence in Picasso’s future.“Inoue has only two elite challengers left in his division: Akhmadaliev and Picasso,” Gibbons noted.

The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers just made one of the biggest offseason moves in UAAP Men’s Basketball by securing the commitment of Collins Akowe, one of the most dominant big men in the UAAP high school ranks.The 6-foot-10 Nigerian standout from National University-Nazareth School (NU-NS) officially joins UST after weeks of negotiation with head coach Pido Jarencio and team managers Waiyip Chong and Eric Ang.Akowe will be eligible to play for the Tigers starting UAAP Season 88 and has a full five-year window to compete in the league.He made headlines in UAAP Season 87, powering the NU Bullpups with averages of 20.9 points, 19.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game.

Just weeks after his decisive win against Mexico’s Francisco Portillo on May 31, undefeated Filipino boxer Carl Jammes Martin made sure to attend worship services of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ)—a commitment he never fails to keep, no matter the circumstance.In his Facebook post, Martin said: “Wherever we go, we will find a chapel and we will fulfill our duty to the Father.”Martin joined the worship service of the local congregation in Los Angeles, California, showing his continued devotion and gratitude to the Lord God following his latest victory in the ring.For the 25-year-old rising star, putting trust in the Lord God is essential—especially as he pursues continued success in his boxing career.He demonstrates this by always attending worship services, staying united with the Church Administration, and submitting to its guidance—a trait he shares with many Filipino athletes who attribute their success to their faith.He is one of many Filipino boxers who exhibit this same devotion—never forgetting to give respect and gratitude to the true giver of victories, especially to His chosen ones, in every fight inside the ring.Martin currently holds a clean record of 26-0 (Win-Loss) with 20 knockouts and remains active in the junior featherweight division after his win over Portillo.

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continues to make waves on the international stage, reaching a new career milestone by advancing to the semifinals of the WTA 250 Eastbourne Open after a dominant straight-sets win over Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska on Thursday, June 27 (Philippine time).The 20-year-old Eala displayed grit and maturity well beyond her years as she outclassed the World No. 42 Yastremska, 6-1, 6-2, in a clinical performance that underscored her growing confidence on grass courts. The victory came just a day after she pulled off one of the biggest wins of her young career by stunning World No. 20 and former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko.Even with strong winds sweeping through the Eastbourne courts, Eala remained unfazed. She showcased a well-rounded game anchored by deep, consistent returns and tactical precision that kept her Ukrainian opponent off-balance throughout the match. With a decisive 57-37 advantage in total points won, Eala’s control over the match was evident from start to finish.