Cebu Boxing Revival: Lorenzo 'Chao' Sy Launches 'Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator' Event
In a bold move to rejuvenate the once-thriving boxing scene in Cebu, sportsman Lorenzo "Chao" Sy has officially launched the "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" boxing event. The press conference took place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at La Fortuna Bakery on Osmeña Blvd., marking a significant step in Sy's mission to restore Cebu's reputation as the "Mecca of Boxing" in the Philippines.
Consultation with Boxing Legend
Sy revealed that he consulted with Antonio L. Aldeguer, known as the "Godfather of Cebu Boxing" and founder of the famed ALA Boxing Stable, which closed in 2020 after decades of nurturing local talent. Aldeguer advised Sy to host the event at the New Cebu Coliseum, a venue steeped in boxing history. "I want to revive boxing in Cebu, that's the most important thing. I consulted Aldeguer, and he recommended Cebu Coliseum as the ideal location because it has been the traditional boxing venue since the early days," Sy stated.
Event Details and Future Plans
The "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" is scheduled for May 9, 2026, at the New Cebu Coliseum. Sy emphasized his commitment to organizing regular promotions, aiming for events every two months to sustain momentum in the local boxing community. While he initially considered Waterfront Hotel in Lahug, he ultimately chose the coliseum for its historical significance. Sy promised fans high-quality, competitive matches, starting with this event, which will feature intense ring action.
Main Event: IBF Title Eliminator
The highlight of the promotion is the main event, where undefeated Cebuano boxer Ian "The Assassin" Abne will face Chinese contender Dianxing Zhu in an International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimumweight world title eliminator bout. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for the IBF minimumweight belt, currently held by Filipino champion Pedro Taduran. Abne, ranked IBF No. 4 with a record of 12-0-2 (4 KOs), expressed confidence and determination, vowing not to waste this opportunity. Zhu, ranked IBF No. 3, holds a record of 16-1 (14 KOs), setting the stage for a thrilling clash.
Additional Title Bouts
Adding excitement to the card, two title bouts will feature fighters from the Chao Sy Stable. Jimuel Arañas will battle Jeric Noynay from Martinez Boxing Stable for the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Silver flyweight title, while John Paul Gabunilas will take on Ramil Roda from Omega Boxing Stable for the Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF) super flyweight belt. These matches promise to deliver action-packed entertainment and showcase rising talent in the sport.
Sy's initiative represents a significant effort to breathe new life into Cebu's boxing legacy, with the "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" serving as a cornerstone event. Fans and enthusiasts eagerly await May 9, 2026, to witness this revival in action.
