ZUS Coffee delivered a clutch performance in the decisive fifth set, showing composure, resilience, and timely execution to edge out Cignal in a thrilling five-set battle, 19-25, 25-23, 25-20, 23-25, 15-12, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Play-In Tournament at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Tuesday, March 11.“We’re very happy, but there’s a bit of frustration since we could have closed it out in the fourth set. Still, we held on in the fifth, so we’re happy,” said Thunderbelles head coach Jerry Yee.  Cignal made a late push in the deciding frame, cutting ZUS Coffee’s lead to 13-12 after a block from Jackie Acuña on Jovelyn Gonzaga and an attack error by Michelle Gamit.However, former HD Spiker Chai Troncoso rose to the occasion, delivering two consecutive clutch hits to seal the victory. She finished with 21 points, including 15 attacks, four aces, and two blocks, while also recording 17 excellent receptions.  ZUS Coffee seemed poised to close out the match in four sets, holding a dominant 12-3 lead early and an 18-11 advantage midway. But Cignal mounted a strong comeback, led by Vanie Gandler and Ishie Lalongisip, forcing a deciding set.

After defeating his first two opponents in Mexico last year, 25-year-old Carl Jammes Martin, a warrior from Lagawe, Ifugao, is set to compete in a non-title, 10-round super bantamweight bout against Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin on March 22 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada.Martin dominated Anthony Jimenez Salas with a second-round technical knockout last September, followed by a fifth-round technical knockout victory over Ruben Tostado Garcia in December—both fights taking place in Mexico, where he has maintained an undefeated record of 25 wins, including 20 knockouts.However, Sanmartin presents a greater challenge, given his experience, as reflected in his 35-9-1 record, which includes 21 knockouts.This marks a significant opportunity for the Filipino boxer to showcase his skills in the boxing world’s most prestigious venue—Las Vegas, often regarded as a proving ground for the sport’s top prospects and future champions.“I am so thrilled to be fighting in Las Vegas, Nevada. When I was a little boy, I grew up watching some of the greatest fighters in boxing history showcase their talents in Las Vegas. I watched many of Manny Pacquiao’s fights there, and now I’m fighting in Las Vegas. This is a dream come true,” Martin said.Sean Gibbons, president of Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, also expressed his full support for Martin’s campaign, hoping for a victorious run leading to a world title in 2025.“This is a very exciting time in Carl’s career. Having his first fight in the United States take place in Las Vegas—where his idol, Manny Pacquiao, has fought so many times—is a dream come true,” Gibbons said.According to Gibbons, Carl is eager to make a lasting impression next week as he continues his journey toward becoming a world champion.“Carl is looking to impress everyone next week as he works toward his ultimate goal of winning a world title in 2025,” Gibbons added.

Strong Group Athletics-Philippines capped off a flawless 8-0 run at the William Jones Cup, clinching an emphatic 87-62 victory over the United Arab Emirates on Sunday at Xinzhuang Gymnasium.With the title already secured ahead of the final game, the Filipinos left no doubt, sealing back-to-back championships and the country’s eighth overall Jones Cup crown.“We’re happy to win another championship. We never take anything for granted, now a two-time Jones Cup champion with Strong Group. “Our bosses go all out to support us every time we represent the country.” said coach Charles Tiu.UAE kept things close in the first half, trailing by just one at the break, 37-36. But Strong Group broke the game open in the third quarter behind a surge from Tajuan Agee and Allen Liwag. Kiefer Ravena and Dave Ildefonso delivered big shots in the fourth to put the game away.Agee paced the team with 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Ravena contributed 13 points and 9 assists, while DJ Fenner and Ian Miller scored 12 each. Ildefonso added 10 points. Andre Roberson, who starred throughout the tournament, sat out the finale.The Filipinos dominated the second half, outscoring UAE 50-26, and extended their unbeaten streak to 16 games over the last two Jones Cup editions. Their run included wins over top teams like Chinese-Taipei Blue, Japan Developmental, Qatar, Australia’s NBL1 Rising Stars, Malaysia, and Bahrain.Coach Tiu praised his squad’s chemistry and commitment: “It’s special because I don’t know if we’ll have this group again. But these guys were willing to sacrifice—something that’s very rare.”

Eldrew Yulo — younger brother of double Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo — takes center stage as the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships officially open Thursday at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom inside Newport World Resorts, Pasay City.Fresh from months of intensive training in Japan under esteemed coach Munehiro Kugimiya, Eldrew banners the host nation’s campaign alongside women’s division representative Elizabeth Antone.“He’s been working so hard to win medals,” said Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion during the tournament’s opening press conference.Yulo begins his campaign at 6 p.m. in the men’s artistic gymnastics (MAG) qualifications and team rankings, marking the start of the five-day competition running from November 20–24. The women’s qualifications follow on Friday, while the MAG and WAG all-around finals take place on Saturday. Apparatus finals for both divisions are scheduled for Sunday and Monday.A silver medalist in vault at the Asian Junior Championships last July in Jecheon, South Korea, Yulo is seen as the country’s strongest medal hopeful. Carrion expressed optimism that the teen standout could contend for gold in the floor exercise, parallel bars, rings, and vault.“He assured me he can do it. I feel he can give us one medal, or maybe even two,” Carrion said. “I’m happy with two medals.”As the Junior Gymfest gets underway, Carrion appealed to Filipino fans to rally behind the athletes—especially in a sport that has delivered the Philippines its historic second and third Olympic gold medals.“Cheer for our athletes, cheer for everybody, and let’s show the world that gymnastics is a very important sport,” she said.A total of 75 nations are competing for junior gymnastics glory, making this the largest and most prestigious edition of the event ever held—right here on Philippine soil.

William Navarro’s long-awaited overseas stint is finally underway.The versatile 6-foot-6 forward has officially signed with the Busan KCC Egis, the Korean Basketball League (KBL) club announced on Tuesday, sealing a dream move years in the making.

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has become the latest major sports body to update its policy on transgender athlete participation, joining several other organizations that have clarified or altered their rules this year. Here’s a summary of the most prominent changes:US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC)The USOPC now effectively bars transgender women from competing in women’s sports, citing an obligation to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive order. The USOPC oversees around 50 national governing bodies, potentially prompting rule changes at local club levels to maintain membership.International Cycling UnionEarlier this month, cycling’s global governing body banned transgender women who transitioned after male puberty from women’s races. This came after American rider Austin Killips became the first openly transgender woman to win an official cycling event in May.University of PennsylvaniaThe university modified three women’s swimming records previously held by transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, settling a federal civil rights investigation and restoring records to female athletes. Thomas, who won an NCAA title in 2022, was at the center of the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict transgender participation in women’s sports.World AquaticsSwimming’s governing body announced a policy in June allowing only transgender athletes who transitioned before age 12 to compete in women’s events. They are also exploring an “open competition” category for the future.World Boxing OrganizationIn May, World Boxing mandated sex testing for all athletes in sanctioned events, referencing scrutiny around Olympic champion Imane Khelif and other elite boxers whose eligibility had been questioned.British SportsFollowing a UK Supreme Court ruling in April, the governing bodies for soccer in England and Scotland banned transgender women from women’s teams, while the England and Wales Cricket Board imposed a similar ban.World Athletics CouncilIn March, track and field’s governing body barred transgender women who underwent male puberty from international competition. New regulations on athletes with differences in sex development, such as Caster Semenya, now require six months of hormone suppression before eligibility.US National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)The NCAA announced in February that women’s sports would be limited to athletes assigned female at birth, enforcing the rule immediately after Trump’s executive order. The NCAA governs over 1,100 schools and 500,000 athletes.High School SportsNebraska became the latest state in June to ban transgender girls from girls’ sports, joining at least 24 other states with similar policies. The federal government and several states have clashed over such participation rules.These policy changes reflect a global trend toward more restrictive eligibility standards for transgender athletes, often citing fairness and safety in women’s sports.

When the game was on the line, Anton Asistio stepped up and delivered.The sharpshooting guard calmly sank four crucial free throws in the dying seconds to power Rain or Shine Elasto Painters past Titan Ultra, 112-111, in a heart-stopping PBA Philippine Cup clash on Sunday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.Down 108-111 with just over two seconds left, Asistio drew a foul from beyond the arc and coolly converted all his free throws to complete Rain or Shine’s dramatic comeback and secure their second straight win, improving to 3-1 in the standings.Head coach Yeng Guiao lauded Asistio’s composure and quick thinking in executing the play perfectly under pressure.“We designed that last play for Anton, but we did not really anticipate that it was going to be a four-point shot,” said Guiao. “We knew they were going to foul, so we told him—when you feel the foul coming, put up the shot. That’s exactly what he did.”The clutch moment capped off a strong all-around team performance. Adrian Nocum led the E-Painters with 24 points before fouling out, while Santi Santillan poured in 21 points—including 13 in the fourth quarter—to spearhead the rally. Jhonard Clarito added 19 markers, eight of which came in the final frame.Despite a big night from Calvin Abueva, who finished with 31 points and 18 rebounds, Titan Ultra fell short and dropped to 1-4. Aljun Melecio chipped in 21, while Joshua Munzon came close to a triple-double with 15 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists.Titan looked in full control after building an 85-66 lead in the third quarter behind a barrage of three-pointers, but Rain or Shine’s relentless fightback flipped the script.“I’m really happy with the endgame, but for the first three quarters, I wasn’t that happy,” Guiao admitted. “The important thing is, we found ways to win.”With momentum on their side and confidence growing, Rain or Shine continues to show the grit and chemistry that define a true contender in this year’s Philippine Cup.

 After clinching the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup title on Friday, March 28, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the TNT Tropang Giga now set their sights on the franchise’s first-ever grand slam.TNT sealed the hard-fought seven-game series in dramatic fashion, with the final showdown extending into overtime. The victory was powered by the relentless efforts of import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Finals MVP Rey Nambatac.Hollis-Jefferson led the charge with 25 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block—maintaining his unbeaten record in three PBA Finals appearances.Nambatac, meanwhile, delivered when it mattered most, dropping 22 markers on four three-pointers, grabbing two boards, and dishing out four dimes to cap off his stellar series performance.

The San Miguel Beermen held off a furious comeback by Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to escape with a thrilling 83–81 victory in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai early Monday (Manila time).Leading by as much as 14 points, San Miguel weathered Ginebra’s late rally behind the leadership of June Mar Fajardo, who turned in another MVP-caliber performance with 17 points, 16 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks.Veteran guard Kris Rosales delivered in the clutch, knocking down two crucial three-pointers in the final minutes to help the Beermen secure their second win in four games.“Our schedule is quite packed, but we still managed to execute our game plan and get the win,” said Fajardo, who also took time to thank the Filipino fans in Dubai for their unwavering support.Ginebra had a final chance to snatch the win after forcing a turnover in the last 3.7 seconds, but Scottie Thompson’s desperation three-pointer missed at the buzzer.Japeth Aguilar led the Gin Kings with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists, while RJ Abarrientos added 17 points, and Thompson nearly posted a triple-double with 15 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.Despite Ginebra’s valiant effort, San Miguel’s composure and experience proved decisive, giving them a momentum boost as they continue their title campaign in the midseason conference.

 The Philippine flag has reached the podium on the global pickleball stage.Vole player Vien Reyes-Bejosano delivered a breakthrough performance at the Pickleball World Cup, capturing the bronze medal in the Women’s Singles category and finishing third in a tournament that brought together players and delegates from 64 countries.In a field filled with international talent, Bejosano held her ground against fierce competition and emerged as one of the tournament’s Top 3 women’s singles players — a result that stands as a significant milestone for both the player and Philippine pickleball.The bronze may not have been the top step of the podium, but its significance goes far beyond the color of the medal.It represents the growing presence of Filipino talent in a sport that continues to expand rapidly across the globe.A statement on the world stageMaking a deep run at a major international tournament is never an easy task.With representatives from 64 countries converging for the World Cup, the Women’s Singles competition provided Bejosano with a stern test against a diverse and highly competitive international field.She answered that challenge with a strong campaign, battling her way into the medal places and securing third place.The result placed Bejosano alongside the best performers of the tournament while giving Philippine pickleball a moment to celebrate on the international stage.For Vole, the achievement is a major milestone.For the Philippines, it is another reminder that Filipino athletes are capable of competing beyond domestic competition and making their presence felt against international opposition.Bronze with a bigger meaningBejosano's podium finish is not simply about one player earning a medal.It reflects the continued development and growing profile of pickleball in the Philippines.The sport has attracted an increasingly broad following locally, with players of different ages and backgrounds taking to the courts. As the Philippine pickleball community continues to grow, international achievements such as Bejosano's provide both recognition and inspiration.Her World Cup performance gives aspiring Filipino players something tangible to look toward — proof that the road from Philippine courts to international competition is becoming increasingly possible.And when that journey ends with a place on the podium, the impact becomes even greater.A proud moment for VoleFor Vole, Vien’s bronze is a result worthy of celebration.The achievement puts the organization and its player in the spotlight while highlighting the level of talent emerging from the Philippine pickleball scene.Reaching the Top 3 at a World Cup featuring competitors from 64 countries is no small accomplishment.It is a result built on the ability to compete under pressure, maintain consistency and perform when the stakes are at their highest.Vien managed to do exactly that.Inspiring the next generationEvery breakthrough performance has the potential to inspire the athletes who come next.For young Filipino pickleball players watching Vien stand on the World Cup podium, the message is clear: the Philippines belongs in the conversation.The journey does not end with one bronze medal.Instead, it could mark the beginning of an even bigger chapter for Vien Reyes-Bejosano — and perhaps another step forward for Philippine pickleball as it continues to establish itself on the international scene.The Philippines may still be developing its identity in the global pickleball community, but achievements like this are helping change that narrative.From Philippine courts to the worldGold and silver may have occupied the top two spots, but her bronze carries a significance that cannot be measured simply by its place on the podium.She has earned a place among the World Cup’s best women’s singles players and, in doing so, helped raise the profile of Philippine pickleball before an international audience.For Vole, it is a proud achievement.For her, it is a major career milestone.And for the Philippines, it is another reason to believe that Filipino talent can compete — and win — on the world stage.One rally. One point. One podium finish.And this time, the Philippine flag is flying beside her.

The Final Four of the East Asia Super League (EASL) will be held in Macau SAR for the first time on March 7-9 at Melco Resorts Entertainment’s Studio City Event Center.It will also mark the second Final Four of EASL using the home-and-away season format that was introduced in the previous season."Asia’s best teams will battle it out in EASL’s Final Four 2025, right here in Macau,” Chief Executive Officer Henry Kerins said. “This is the Champions League of Asian basketball with outstanding talent, prime-time action, and unmatched energy. It doesn’t get better than this.”Two teams coming from Japan's B. League already secured spots in the Final Four - The Ryuku Golden Kings clinched it first when they defeated the New Taipei Kings, 82-74, on Christmas Day, while the Hiroshima Dragonflies dominated the San Miguel Beermen on January 8.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio said his perspective on sports development shifted after witnessing the overwhelming turnout in emerging sports during the recent Batang Pinoy games. Events like archery, futsal, taekwondo, and swimming drew hundreds—if not thousands—of young athletes, surpassing participation numbers in traditional crowd favorites such as basketball and volleyball.“To be honest, nagulat ako sa dami ng participants,” Gregorio said. “Take futsal, for example—there were hundreds of players from nearly every LGU. We also had 500 to 600 in archery, and it helped that we brought in Korean coach Ryu Ju-seng, known for developing Olympic medalists, for our national team.”With the surge of interest, Gregorio believes the PSC should champion emerging sports such as netball, floorball, and handball, but he is particularly excited about futsal—especially as the Philippines is currently hosting the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup.Gregorio revealed that with the newly-refurbished PhilSports Arena serving as the World Cup venue, the PSC is considering transforming it into a dedicated futsal arena.“A lot of our arenas default to basketball after events of other sports,” he said. “But we already have more than enough basketball venues like MOA Arena, Ynares, Araneta, FilOil, and the upcoming UAAP Akari arena. Maybe it’s time we dedicate an arena for futsal. If we do, we could excite FIFA into helping us craft a seven-year development plan for football.”He cited the PSC’s successful seven-year roadmap with the FIVB, which led to the Philippines hosting the Men’s Volleyball World Championship this year and the Women’s World Championship in 2029. Gregorio believes a similar long-term partnership with the Philippines Football Federation (PFF) and FIFA is well within reach.Beyond athlete development, Gregorio stressed that hosting world-level sports events should be viewed as an investment—not a cost.“I’m betting on sports and tourism,” said Gregorio, "Sports can help the economy if we attach it to tourism. It’s a powerful way to promote our country.”In January, the Philippines will stage its first-ever WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open, which will feature tennis star Alex Eala. The PSC is currently refurbishing the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center to host the event, but Gregorio foresees that the growing interest in tennis will soon require a larger venue.“In two years, we’ll likely need a bigger venue if we want to host a WTA 250,” he added.With rising participation, world-class hosting opportunities, and a renewed vision, Gregorio believes the Philippines is entering a pivotal moment in its sports development journey.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) has officially confirmed its 12th team for the 2025–26 season—Japan’s 2025 Emperor’s Cup champion. This move marks a historic moment for Japanese basketball, as it will be the first time three B.LEAGUE clubs participate in a single EASL campaign.This special inclusion also honors the 100th anniversary of the Emperor’s Cup, adding both prestige and competitive depth to the EASL lineup.Since the league's inaugural 2023–24 season, B.LEAGUE teams have proven dominant, boasting a combined 23–7 record and clinching back-to-back championships. This expansion not only highlights Japan’s growing influence in Asian basketball but also strengthens the EASL’s commitment to showcasing the region’s top talent.Henry Kerins, CEO of East Asia Super League, said the growth of Japanese basketball is truly remarkable, and the EASL will continue to elevate its standing in order to deliver even more competitive and thrilling action for fans.

The Meralco Bolts are on a roll in the EASL Home and Away Season 3, notching their second straight win with a 92-74 victory over the debuting Macau Black Bears at the newly refurbished Cebu Coliseum last Saturday night.Imports Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Ismael Romero spearheaded the second-quarter breakaway for the Bolts before the rest of the team joined in to secure the 18-point winning margin. Romero delivered a massive double-double with 25 points and 28 rebounds, while Hollis-Jefferson finished with a game-high 34 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, thrilling the Cebuano crowd with three thunderous dunks.It was Meralco’s second straight home win in a week, evening their Group B record at 2-2 behind the Taoyuan Pilots (2-1) and the Ryukyu Golden Kings (1-1). The Bolts had earlier defeated the Pilots, 82-72, at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.Chris Banchero led the locals with 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists, while Asian import Sina Vahedi added 10 points, three rebounds, and four assists.For Macau, Damian Chongqui had 25 points, with Omari Peek-Green and Jalon Demarco Miller adding 14 apiece in the Black Bears’ season debut.Proceeds from the EASL game will be donated to Typhoon Tino victims in Cebu, with Meralco also raising P500,000 for the cause.EASL senior vice president Dominic Tang announced the league’s relief commitment, underscoring basketball’s power to unite and uplift communities in times of need.The scoresMeralco (92)—Hollis-Jefferson 34, Romero 25, Banchero 12, Vahedi 10, Newsome 7, Quinto 2, Hodge 2, Caram 0, Kouame 0.Macau (74)—Chongqui 25, Peek-Green 14, Miller 14, Ye 13, Shackelford 8, Guo 0, Liu 0, Cao 0, Lao 0.Quarter scores: 25-24, 48-38, 65-52, and 92-74.

World No. 1 Poland bounced back from a semifinal heartbreak to end their campaign on a winning note, capturing the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship bronze medal on Sunday, September 28, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.The Poles clinched their first-ever bronze medal finish in a hard-fought four-set clash against dark-horse Czechia, 25-18, 23-25, 25-22, 25-21, in front of a 6,535 electrifying crowd. 

De La Salle University capped a flawless elimination round run in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge after outlasting University of Santo Tomas in a gripping five-set showdown, 23-25, 25-21, 25-23, 24-26, 15-12, on Monday, September 29, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan.Fueled by a balanced attack, the Green Spikers leaned on Issa Ousseini’s all-around brilliance, finishing with 20 points built on 13 attacks and seven blocks. Rui Ventura came off the bench to spark La Salle with 18 points, including the decisive hit that gave them breathing room in the fifth set. Eugene Gloria also played a stellar two-way game, chipping in 17 attacks, 16 excellent receptions, and a backrow kill that sealed the sweep.

Patrick Gregorio has officially been named the new Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), succeeding Richard Bachmann, who had held the position since early 2023.This announcement follows a directive from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who ordered Bachmann’s removal as part of a broader initiative to restructure leadership within key government agencies.Before this significant appointment, Gregorio served as President of the Philippine Rowing Association, where he earned acclaim for his dedication to athlete development, grassroots participation, and elevating international competitiveness in rowing and other Olympic sports.With extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, Gregorio is a seasoned sports executive and a respected figure in Philippine athletics. His appointment heralds a new era for the PSC, emphasizing enhanced performance, transparency, and sustainable development for Filipino athletes.As the newly instated chairman, Gregorio is expected to bolster collaborations with national sports associations, improve athlete welfare initiatives, and lead preparations for major upcoming international competitions, including the 2025 Southeast Asian Games and the 2026 Asian Games.The Philippine sports community now turns to Gregorio’s leadership, anticipating positive change as he navigates this pivotal chapter for Philippine sports.

In an impressive display of skill, taller Japanese southpaw Madoka Wada (4-0, 3 KOs) successfully defended her OPBF Female Minimumweight Title by stopping resilient Filipina challenger Carleans “Chay” Rivas (9-8-4, 1 KO) in Round 7 in Tokyo, Japan.From the very first round, Wada utilized her height advantage, sharp right jab, and accurate counters to dictate the pace, keeping the aggressive Rivas at bay. Renowned for her tenacity and relentless pressure, Rivas found it difficult to close the distance against the rangy champion.In Round 7, Wada unleashed a series of unanswered combinations that prompted the referee to intervene and halt the fight. Although Rivas protested the stoppage, demonstrating her indomitable spirit, Wada had clearly taken command, landing effective shots throughout the bout.A big salute to Rivas—the fearless fighter from Angono, Rizal—whose courage and heart earned her the respect of the crowd despite the loss. She poured everything into the fight and exited the ring with her head held high.Wada’s victory keeps her unbeaten and solidifies her position as the reigning OPBF champion, marking her continued ascent in the minimumweight division.

Another Filipino boxing star is set to shine on the global stage, as former world champion Mark "Magnifico" Magsayo returns to action on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios fight card next month at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.Magsayo will take on Mexican fighter Jorge Mata Cuellar in a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Featherweight Title, under the banner of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC).It was earlier announced that former Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Eumir Marcial will also fight on the Pacquiao-Barrios undercard, squaring off against American Alexis Gaytan in an eight-round non-title middleweight bout. The inclusion of Magsayo was later confirmed by MP Promotions, further strengthening the Filipino presence at this high-profile event."It’s a great opportunity to fight for the second time as part of the undercard for my childhood hero, Manny Pacquiao—who is the main reason I started boxing. Just like the first time I fought on his card when I was in the featherweight division, this is another stepping stone toward my second-division world title bid at super featherweight. I'm grateful for the opportunity from big brother Manny," Magsayo said.This won’t be the first time Magsayo shares the stage with Pacquiao. He previously appeared as an undercard fighter during Pacquiao’s final U.S. bout against Yordenis Ugas in 2021, where he delivered a dramatic 10th-round knockout of Mexican Julio Ceja.That performance catapulted Magsayo into a world title opportunity, which he seized by defeating Gary Russell Jr. on January 22, 2022, in Atlantic City to become the WBC Featherweight World Champion.Now riding a three-fight win streak, Magsayo looks to continue his resurgence. His most recent victory came on December 14, 2024, when he scored a dominant second-round knockout over Ecuadorian Bryan Mercado in Long Beach, California. Magsayo currently holds an impressive record of 27 wins, 2 losses, with 18 knockouts.Standing in his way is the hungry and talented 24-year-old Cuellar, who brings a solid 21-2-2 record with 13 KOs. With both fighters eyeing a shot at greater glory, fans can expect fireworks when they step into the ring.Meanwhile, MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons thanked Manny Pacquiao for putting Magsayo on this historic card, where the boxing icon attempts to become the oldest welterweight champion in history. Gibbons expressed confidence in Magsayo's chances against Cuellar and hopes he will emerge as the next contender for a WBC world title."I want to thank Manny [Pacquiao] and Al Haymon for putting Mark on this historic night of boxing, when Pacquiao attempts to become the oldest welterweight champion. A win over Jorge Mata will put Mark next in line for a WBC world title shot," Gibbons said.

Barangay Ginebra finished the elimination round of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup with a thrilling victory against Meralco, 91-87, on Chinese New Year at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.The Gin Kings closed the preliminaries with an 8-4 win-loss record, tying the Converge FiberXers, while the Bolts dropped to 7-4.The game results paved the way for the NorthPort Batang Pier to earn a twice-to-beat advantage going into the quarters and they also got the No. 1 seed for the first time in franchise history.It was a close battle between the two rivals in the end after Meralco climbed back from a 17-point deficit despite playing All-Filipino as their import Akil Mitchell did not play due to back spasms. The loss halted the three-game win streak of the Bolts.