Saturday, 01 August 2026 · Philippines
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MEXICAN GAONA ARRIVES IN CEBU, READY FOR BANAL BOUT

Mexican Esau Gaona touched down in Cebu yesterday ready to take on unbeaten Filipino AJ Banal in their titular showdown on Sunday at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.

Gaona battles Banal for the vacant WBO Asia Pacific Youth superflyweight title underneath the world title bout featuring Donnie Nietes against unbeaten Thai Pornsawan Kratingdaenggym.

Banal is coming off a powerful performance at the August 11 World Cup where he broke Jorge Cardenas' resolve and leg in a third-round TKO victory at the Arco Arena in Sacramento.

If victorious, Banal is being groomed to face dangerous Mexican veteran Jovanny "Bambino" Soto on December 8 in Manila to determine the next challenger for WBO superfly champion Fernando Montiel.

Kratingdaenggym is scheduled to arrive today, as well as the Indonesian fighter seeing action on this historic card.

Meanwhile, a Press Conference will be held on Sep 27 at 3:00 PM at the Celebes Room of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino to officially introduce the fighters to the media.

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