Wednesday, 29 July 2026 · Philippines
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FARENAS FACES EX-PACQUIAO FOE

Michael Farenas (37-4-4, 29 knockouts) will have another stern test ahead of him as he takes on Hector Velazquez (56-20-3, 38 KOs), a former opponent of eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao.

The two will fight for the WBC Asian Boxing Council super featherweight title on March 21 at the FilOil Flying V Arena in San Juan.

The event, which is sponsored by CherrylumE, DIY (Do It Yourself) Hardware, and Harrix Wires and Cables, will be aired on GMA 7 on March 22 immediately after Eat Bulaga.

Farenas has disposed of his last three opponents in a combined five rounds which speaks volumes about his punching power. His last victory was a two-round stoppage of Jesus Rios in the main event of Philippines versus Mexico: First Blood, which was the first event of MAG Pacman Boxing Promotions.

"Handang handa na ako la laban," Farenas said. "Alam kong hindi basta-basta si Velazquez pero gagawin ko ang lahat para mapatumba siya."

The Mexican, who arrived in the Manila last on March 14, is known to be as tough as nails. He fought Pacquiao back in 2005 the eight-division world champion and took all he could handle in the early rounds. But against him is a younger Filipino warrior who is itching for another shot at a world title.

In the undercard, Dave Penalosa (7-0-0, 5 KOs) will try to accomplish something his brother Dodie Boy Penalosa, Jr., did not and that is to knock out the tough Alem Robles (6-4-2, 2 KOs) who also hails from Mexico.

Velazquez, Farenas, and the rest of the fighters in the card will weigh in on March 20 at the Lancaster Hotel Manila, the event's official hotel. The weigh in proceedings will start at 10 am.

Photo: Farenas on mitts with trainer Freddie Roach.

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