Saturday, 01 August 2026 · Philippines
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WBA NO. 5 BANTAMWEIGHT PAYANO PLANS TO TAKE AWAY MARAON?S POWER

Undefeated Dominican Republic southpaw Juan Carlos Payano (13-0, 7 KOs), who is ranked No. 5 World Boxing Association bantamweight has continued training in Miami for his June 14th showdown against unbeaten Philippine invader Jundy "Pretty Boy" Maraon (15-0-1, 12 KOs), in a 12-round WBA title eliminator headlining ESPN Friday Night Fights, at South Mountain Arena in South Orange, New Jersey.

Acquinity Sports quoted Payano who said "We are working with southpaws to get familiar with Maraon's style.We know that he is a strong puncher who has an acceptable record. He represents a great challenge. I'll step into the ring, as always, in excellent condition because of our strong training camp. I'm focused on taking away his power."

Payano reportedly held an intense sparring session this past Tuesday, going four, five-minute rounds each against Jessy Cruz (9-5-1, 3 KO?s, a 30 year old Cuban southpaw and Idiel Torriente, totaling eight rounds and 40 minutes of intense work at German Caicedo's Gym.

Acquinity Sports promoter Henry Rivalta realizes that "This fight is a big challenge for Payano."He will be facing Jundy Maraon at 118 pounds, which is a great risk due to the power Maraon has shown in his fights. However, we know about the Payano's courage and determination, and that's why we call him 'Baby Pacquiao.' We're confident of getting a great victory for Payano."

Payano is the reigning NABA and WBA Fedelatin bantamweight, while Maraon is a former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Asia Pacific bantamweight champion.

The Dominican Republic fighter believes "This fight is another step towards me attaining our goals," noting that he has had five fights since arriving in the United States and ?have maintained my unbeaten record. We will assert our place in the WBA rankings, proving that I have the ability to face the best in this weight class."

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