Suganob vs. Baleni: Intense Staredown Sets Stage for Bohol Boxing Clash
The atmosphere was electric as Filipino boxer Regie Suganob and South African opponent Siphamandla Baleni locked eyes during the official weigh-in for their highly anticipated main event bout. The intense staredown perfectly captured the rising tension ahead of their eight-round clash at "Kumong Bol-anon XXIV" on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City.
No Chances Taken: Suganob's Determined Approach
Regie Suganob, the 28-year-old Filipino fighter, has made it clear that he will not underestimate his opponent. "I've prepared well with my team," Suganob stated confidently. "I know he (Baleni) will do his best to beat me. I will also give my all to win this fight. I won't take any chances." This disciplined mindset reflects the high stakes of this encounter, which could serve as a crucial stepping stone toward a world title opportunity later this year.
World Title Aspirations on the Line
Floriezyl Echavez Podot, head of PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions, has already identified unified light-flyweight champion Rene Santiago as a potential future opponent for Suganob. "Rene Santiago, shoutout to you. We want to challenge you," Podot declared, emphasizing that Suganob is fully prepared to compete for a world championship. However, Suganob must first navigate past the experienced Baleni to keep those aspirations alive.
Baleni: A Formidable Challenge
Siphamandla Baleni, a 35-year-old former regional champion from South Africa, presents a significant obstacle. With two International Boxing Organization (IBO) title fights under his belt and extensive professional experience, Baleni brings both skill and resilience to the ring. When questioned about his strategy, Baleni remained cryptic yet confident: "Anything is possible. I'm here to fight." His record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, including eight knockouts, underscores his capability as a dangerous opponent.
In contrast, Suganob boasts an impressive record of 17 wins and only 1 loss, with six victories coming by way of knockout. This statistical advantage, combined with his home crowd support, positions him as a slight favorite, though Baleni's veteran savvy could prove decisive.
Undercard Highlights: Pacquiao's Son and More
The event features several compelling matchups beyond the main event. Eman Bacosa Pacquiao, son of legendary eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao, will face Indonesia's Reynold Kundimang. With an undefeated record of 7 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw, including four knockouts, the younger Pacquiao aims to continue his family's boxing legacy. "I'm here to impress, and I'll show it on fight night," he affirmed. "I believe in God, and I believe in myself."
Additional bouts include world-ranked Joseph Sumabong versus Roland Toyogon, along with undercard fights featuring promising talents such as:
- Christian Balunan
- Shane Gentallan
- Leonard Pores III
- Reymart Tagacanao
- Jericho Acaylar
- Jick-Kier Autida
These matchups ensure a full evening of competitive boxing, showcasing both established fighters and rising stars in the sport.
Anticipation Builds for Fight Night
As fight night approaches, the boxing community in Bohol and beyond eagerly awaits the outcome of Suganob versus Baleni. With world title implications, family legacies, and regional pride at stake, "Kumong Bol-anon XXIV" promises to deliver excitement and drama inside the ring. Whether Suganob can capitalize on this big opportunity or Baleni will derail his plans remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: both fighters are ready to leave everything in the ring come Saturday.
