In a bold move to reignite the once-thriving boxing scene in Cebu, sportsman Lorenzo "Chao" Sy has officially launched the "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" boxing event. The promotion, organized by Chao Sy International Promotions, was unveiled during a press conference held at La Fortuna Bakery on Osmeña Blvd. on Monday, April 13, 2026. Sy expressed his deep commitment to restoring Cebu's reputation as the "Mecca of Boxing" in the Philippines, a title it held in the past but has since faded.
Consultation with Boxing Legend
Sy revealed that he sought advice from Antonio L. Aldeguer, often referred to as the "Godfather of Cebu Boxing." Aldeguer, the founder of the renowned ALA Boxing Stable, which closed in 2020 after decades of nurturing Cebuano boxing talent, provided crucial guidance. According to Sy, Aldeguer recommended hosting the event at the New Cebu Coliseum, a venue steeped in boxing history. Sy emphasized that this choice honors the traditional roots of Cebu boxing, stating, "I want to revive boxing in Cebu, that's the most important thing. I consulted Aldeguer, and he advised me to choose Cebu Coliseum because it has always been the boxing venue since the beginning."
Event Details and Future Plans
The "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" is scheduled for May 9, 2026, at the New Cebu Coliseum. Sy also considered the Waterfront Hotel in Lahug as a potential venue but ultimately opted for the coliseum to maintain historical continuity. He outlined ambitious plans for the future, aiming to hold boxing promotions every two months, particularly at the Cebu Coliseum, to sustain momentum. Sy assured fans that the event will feature intense, competitive matches, promising "proper clashes in the ring" that spectators can witness firsthand.
Main Event: IBF Eliminator Bout
The highlight of the promotion is the main event, an International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimumweight world title eliminator bout. Undefeated Cebuano boxer Ian "The Assassin" Abne will face Chinese contender Dianxing Zhu. The winner of this match will become the mandatory challenger for the IBF minimumweight belt, currently held by Filipino boxer Pedro Taduran. Abne, ranked IBF No. 4 and a member of ARQ Stable, holds an impressive record of 12-0-2 with 4 knockouts. In contrast, Zhu, ranked IBF No. 3, boasts a record of 16-1 with 14 knockouts. Abne expressed confidence and determination, stating that he has been training rigorously and vows not to waste this significant opportunity.
Supporting Title Bouts
Adding excitement to the event are two additional title bouts featuring boxers from the Chao Sy Stable. Jimuel Arañas will battle Jeric Noynay from the Martinez Boxing Stable for the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Silver flyweight title. Meanwhile, John Paul Gabunilas will take on Ramil Roda from the Omega Boxing Stable for the Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF) super flyweight belt. These matches are expected to provide extra color and competitive spirit to the overall promotion, showcasing local talent and fostering growth in Cebu's boxing community.
Sy's initiative marks a significant step towards revitalizing Cebu's boxing heritage, with the "Fist of Fury X - The Eliminator" serving as a cornerstone event. By leveraging historical venues and consulting with boxing legends, Sy aims to rebuild the sport's prominence in the region, offering fans high-stakes matches and a platform for emerging fighters.
