ARQ Boxing’s “Engkwentro 8”set December 20 in San Fernando

CEBU, Philippines — After missing their previous show due to injury, world-ranked light flyweight contender John Paul “Angas ng Cebu” Gabunilas (8-1, 6KOs) of the ARQ Stable will return to the ring against the veteran Jesse “Little Giant” Espinas (20-5, 11KOs) of Oroquieta City in the main event of ARQ Sports Promotions’ “Engkwentro 8” fight card slated on December 20 at the San Fernando Sports Complex in San Fernando town, south of Cebu.

Gabunilas, the reigning OPBF Youth 108-pound champion who is rated No.29 by the World Boxing Council (WBC), last fought on August 7 in Sibonga where he courageously battled through a bum stomach before pulling off a rousing eighth round TKO win over the tough as nails Ruben Dadivas of Manny Pacquiao’s MP Stable.  

The pride of Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City was supposed to see action in the seventh sequel of ARQ’s Engkwentro series last October in Consolacion but was forced to pull out of the event because of hamstring strain.

Now in the pink of health, Gabunilas can’t wait to showcase his skills once again before his diehard followers, moreso that he also seeks a much-needed win to climb back in the WBC ladder after falling down by two notches.

The other must-see duel for fans features the OPBF Silver flyweight titlist and WBC rated No.28 April Jay “Astroboy” Abne (11-1, 5KOs) against the power-hitting Richard “Explosive” Claveras (19-10-2, 16KOs).

In the equally-exciting supporting bouts, Ramil “The Sharp” Macado, Jr. will slug it out with Ramil Antaran, Bryan James “Wild Fury” Wild will mix it up with Jess Rey Waminal, Rodel “The Hulk” Wenceslao will trade bombs with Argie Toquero, while Bryx “The King” Piala will test the mettle of Ryan Rey Ponteras.

The rest of the slambang spectacle pits Rodex “The Tank” Piala versus Ponciano Rimandiman, Yerroge “The Scientific” Gura opposite Arnold Garde, Ian Paul “The Assassin” Abne against Ronald Alapormina, and Berland “The Triggerman” Robles against a to be announced opponent.