Two rising Filipino boxing prospects are set for a pivotal clash as they each look to get their careers back on track. Cebuano fighter Joebert Dacullo will square off against Boholano Brian Bustrillo in the eight-round main event of JMF Promotions' "Battle of the Outer Soul in Bohol" fight card.
Main Event Showdown: A Crucial Test for Both Fighters
The bout is scheduled for January 17, 2026, at the Duero Training Center in Duero, Bohol. This matchup presents a significant challenge for both athletes, who are coming off defeats in their most recent outings. Dacullo's head coach, Brix Flores of the Noy Pacing Flores Boxing Academy, anticipates a tough and strategic battle.
"This will be a good fight. The opponent is also a busy fighter and he's prepared," Flores told SunStar Cebu. "This is a very good test for Dacullo. He'll have to win it with strategy."
Paths to Redemption: Recent Setbacks Fuel the Fire
Both fighters enter the ring with something to prove. Joebert Dacullo (5-1, 2 KOs) suffered his first professional loss on July 27, 2025, dropping a unanimous decision to John Vincent Lauriaga in Mandaluyong City. This setback followed a promising start to his career with four consecutive victories.
His opponent, Brian Bustrillo (4-2, 3 KOs), is also eager to return to the win column. He lost a close split decision to Mark Anthony Sarino just last month in Mandaue City. Bustrillo's other career defeat was also a narrow one, a majority decision loss to Vicente Unidos.
Undercard Action: Undefeated Sumalinog Siblings in Action
The event will also feature the undefeated Sumalinog brothers, who train under the same coach, Brix Flores. Kevin Sumalinog (5-0, 1 KO) will take on Cerwin Genosas (2-6, 2 KOs) in a six-round contest. Meanwhile, his brother Khyle Sumalinog (2-0) will face John Michael Cariba (0-4) in a four-round bout.
Notably, Kevin and Khyle are siblings of current Philippine National Boxing Team member Pathricia Sumalinog, highlighting a family deeply embedded in the sport. Their participation adds further local interest to the Bohol-based promotion.
The "Battle of the Outer Soul in Bohol" promises to deliver compelling matchups as local talents seek to advance their standings in the competitive Philippine boxing landscape. For Dacullo and Bustrillo, it represents a critical juncture—a chance to erase the memory of a recent loss and rebuild momentum.
