Two of the Philippines' most promising undefeated boxers, AJ Paciones and Nathaniel Dorona, are set for a high-stakes showdown. They will battle for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Oriental and the Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Youth flyweight titles on February 28, 2026, in Manila.
AJ Paciones: The Cebuano Prodigy on a Global Rise
At just 20 years old, AJ Paciones has already carved a path as one of the country's top prospects. Based in Vietnam where he began his professional career, Paciones honed his skills with fights in Vietnam and Thailand before making a major statement at home.
He announced his arrival on the elite stage in 2024 by defeating former world champion Rene Mark Cuarto in Mandaue City. Paciones scored a knockdown in the second round and secured a split-decision victory. He then captured the WBO Oriental flyweight belt in Thailand, stopping Sanchai Yotboon in the second round.
Recently featured on the "Thrilla in Manila II Countdown" show, Paciones scored a brutal second-round knockout of Jeraldine Ocrarit. His impressive run has earned him world rankings: No. 9 by the WBO, No. 14 by the WBC, and No. 15 by the IBF. He holds a perfect record of 12-0 with 7 knockouts.
Nathaniel Dorona: The Youth Champion Defending His Turf
Standing in his way is the equally formidable Nathaniel Dorona. The 21-year-old, who debuted in 2023, quickly made his mark by winning the Philippine GAB Youth flyweight title last year with a first-round knockout of Jemuel Aranas in Zamboanga Sibugay.
Dorona proved his championship mettle by successfully defending his belt twice in the same year. He stopped Helario Genanda via second-round technical knockout and then won a unanimous decision over Aranas in a rematch. Dorona brings an unblemished slate of 9-0 with 5 knockouts into this pivotal fight.
A Clash for Philippine Boxing's Future
This matchup is more than just a title fight; it's a collision of two ascending paths in the competitive flyweight division. Both fighters represent the vibrant future of Philippine boxing, and the winner will take a monumental step toward global contention.
The event on February 28, 2026, in Manila, promises to deliver high-level action as these two young, hungry, and unbeaten talents put everything on the line. With regional titles and crucial rankings at stake, this bout is a must-watch for fight fans across the nation.
