Filipino Contender Vincent Astrolabio Battles Unbeaten Japanese Rival
Two-time world title challenger Vincent Astrolabio returns to the ring this Saturday, November 8, 2025, facing undefeated Japanese boxer Katsuma Akitsugi in a pivotal 10-round bantamweight contest. The fight takes place at the RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida, marking another crucial step in Astrolabio's journey back to world championship contention.
Road to Redemption for Astrolabio
After suffering a devastating first-round knockout loss to Japanese superstar Junto Nakatani in a World Boxing Council (WBC) bantamweight title fight last year, the 28-year-old Filipino has been determined to rebuild his career. Astrolabio successfully bounced back with an impressive first-round knockout victory against former world title challenger Prasitsak Phaprom in the Philippines.
The talented bantamweight first fought for a world championship in 2023, dropping a majority decision to Jason Moloney for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) bantamweight title in the United States. Despite these setbacks, Astrolabio maintains strong rankings in major sanctioning bodies, holding the No. 9 position in the WBO and No. 13 in the IBF bantamweight divisions.
Undefeated Japanese Challenger Presents Tough Test
Standing across the ring from Astrolabio will be Katsuma Akitsugi, an undefeated Japanese fighter who has been making significant waves on American soil. The 27-year-old boasts a perfect professional record and comes into this bout with notable experience against Filipino opponents.
In his last two contests, Akitsugi demonstrated his skills against Filipino boxers, first demolishing Aston Palicte in six rounds last year, then outclassing his former sparring partner Jonas Sultan by unanimous decision on July 12, 2025. Currently ranked No. 12 by the IBF, Akitsugi represents a dangerous obstacle in Astrolabio's path back to title contention.
Fight Night Details and Fighter Statistics
Both fighters made weight successfully for the anticipated showdown. Astrolabio weighed in at the bantamweight limit of 118 pounds, while Akitsugi came in slightly lighter at 117.6 pounds.
The fighters bring contrasting records and styles into the ring:
- Vincent Astrolabio: 20 wins, 5 losses with 15 knockouts
- Katsuma Akitsugi: 13 wins, 0 losses with 3 knockouts
This matchup presents a classic crossroads fight between a seasoned contender seeking redemption and an undefeated prospect looking to establish himself on the world stage. For Astrolabio, victory could propel him back into the world title picture, while for Akitsugi, a win over a ranked opponent would significantly boost his own championship aspirations.
