In a relentless pursuit to carve a niche in the Philippine combat sports landscape, TNT Sports & Action Entertainment Inc. is gearing up for its second kickboxing extravaganza on November 25.
Following the success of its inaugural showcase this past June, the organization is set to deliver another adrenaline-fueled spectacle at the SMX Convention Center, located within the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.
Aptly named “TNT Kickboxing 2,” it boasts a 10-bout lineup. The preliminary portion will feature four amateur contests, setting the stage for the main card’s six professional matches.
During a press conference at the Tiara Oriental Hotel in Makati City on Saturday, TNT CEO Miguel Consing expressed his enthusiasm for the chance to demonstrate kickboxing’s viability as a fresh and exhilarating alternative in a market traditionally dominated by boxing and mixed martial arts.
“It means a lot. The first event was very challenging to put up. It was a new sport and had to court the community. We are very grateful to put up this second event,” he said.
“We are working very hard for the best possible experience, for everybody to have a great experience watching.”
James Gutierrez, TNT’s public relations head and matchmaker, echoed Consing’s sentiments, emphasizing the promotion’s commitment to filling the void and creating new opportunities for local talents.
“In kickboxing, there is a lot of crossover with other sports, like Muay Thai and boxing. The beauty of kickboxing is we are not limited to that we are introducing it, we are growing it, and as long as you follow the rule set, we can have you on our card. We want to see you fight,” Gutierrez stated.
Proudly riding on the momentum of their debut event, the upstart outfit underscored the stellar cast of competitors assembled for TNT Kickboxing 2.
Among them are Anacleto “LA” Lauron and John McLeary Ornido, both alumni of the ONE Warrior Series Philippines reality television show.
Lauron is scheduled for a lightweight clash against Richard Lachica, while Ornido faces Jesse Bucog in a featherweight encounter.
Photo by Nissi Icasiano
Occupying the marquee of the affair is a featherweight showdown between Manuel De Los Reyes and Kimbert Alintozon.
For those eager to witness the action live, tickets are priced at ₱2,250.00 for ringside seats, ₱1,250.00 for patron seats, and ₱625.00 for general admission.
But for fans unable to attend in person, TNT Kickboxing 2 will be available for live streaming locally and internationally through the Vivamax Plus pay-per-view platform.
Consing exudes confidence that this event will play a pivotal role in propelling kickboxing into the spotlight alongside its more established counterparts.
“This will be an exciting event. Our fight card is stacked. Every single bout is full of fighters who are hungry. They are ready for battle and they will give us a good show,” he declared.
