The anticipation is mounting as former three-division world champion John Riel Casimero prepares to step into the ring for a highly anticipated homecoming bout.
Casimero, renowned for his explosive style and devastating knockout power, is set to face off against the WBO Global Super Bantamweight Champion Fillipus Nghitumbwa in what promises to be a thrilling showdown this Saturday, May 13, at the prestigious Okada Manila.
On Thursday, the atmosphere crackled with excitement as both fighters, accompanied by their promoters and trainers, gathered for a pre-fight press conference at the elegant Elorde Ballroom in Sucat, Paranaque.
The stage was set for a clash of titans, and the participants spared no words in expressing their determination to emerge victorious on fight night.
Casimero, known for his brash confidence, declared, “I am very excited about this fight. I am going to take his head off.”
The former champion, with an impressive record of 32 wins, 4 losses, and 22 knockouts, exuded a contagious energy that left the audience eagerly awaiting the spectacle to come. Gracious in his remarks, Casimero expressed his gratitude to the press, the promoters, and the fans, promising a night to remember.
“Fight day is almost here, and it would be a great fight,” he added, leaving no doubt that he was prepared to leave everything in the ring.
Opposite him, the WBO Global Super Bantamweight Champion, Fillipus Nghitumbwa, stood poised and ready for the challenge. With a record of 12 wins, 1 loss, and an impressive 11 knockouts, Nghitumbwa exuded a quiet confidence.
“I am ready for this fight,” he asserted. “I am ready to go and ready to take this guy out.”
Nghitumbwa’s steely determination promised an intense battle as he aimed to prove his mettle against a former world champion.
Jayson Casimero, John Riel’s brother and trainer, extended his gratitude to Treasure Boxing Promotion and Elorde Boxing for their unwavering support. He assured the audience that they had prepared rigorously for this fight, emphasizing the significance of a strong performance in front of their home crowd.
“This is a must-see fight because we did not have it easy in training,” Jayson Casimero revealed, underscoring the dedication and sacrifice that went into their preparations.
Nestor Tobias, the manager and promoter of Fillipus Nghitumbwa, conveyed his appreciation for the opportunity to fight on such a grand stage. Recognizing the caliber of his opponent, Tobias expressed confidence in Nghitumbwa’s abilities.
“John Riel Casimero is a great boxer and a former world champion,” he acknowledged. “Come Saturday night, you will see that Fillipus Nghitumbwa is a special boxer.”
Tobias emphasized his desire for a fair and clean fight, urging Casimero to adhere to the rules and avoid any foul play.
Masayuki Ito, the CEO of Treasure Boxing Promotion, shared his excitement about promoting an event in the Philippines for the first time.
“We are hoping that it is going to be an amazing day,” he exclaimed.
Recognizing the rich boxing tradition in the country, Ito expressed his desire to promote more events in the future, allowing Filipino boxers to showcase their talent on a grand scale.
