Philippines, 02 Apr 2026
  Home >> News

 


BOXERS

CURRENT CHAMPIONS 

FORMER CHAMPIONS   

RATINGS                       

NEWS           

FORUM        

FIGHT GALLERIES        

RING CARD GIRLS        


 
 
News  


Eight Boxers Remain in WBC Grand Prix Finals On December 20

PhilBoxing.com




Boxing history will be made on December 20 as the Boxing Grand Prix Finals take center stage—the first tournament-style championship of its kind in professional boxing, organized by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and backed by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports, the General Entertainment Authority, and His Excellency Turki Alalshikh.

After eight months of fierce competition, four knockout stages, over 120 fighters from more than 40 countries, and unprecedented technological innovation, the tournament will culminate with eight finalists who have captivated the boxing world.

“The finalists take home much more than over $200,000 in prize money and the José Sulaimán trophy: They earn a World Boxing Council ranking, the chance to fight for the Silver Title, and will undoubtedly receive a flood of offers from promoters for promotional contracts and boxing stardom,” said Mauricio Sulaimán, President of the World Boxing Council.

“Those who are already participating in these Finals are very popular in their respective countries and have increased their international exposure as well.”

A new format that aims to transform boxing

Born from the vision of legendary WBC president José Sulaimán and brought to life by current president Mauricio Sulaimán, the Boxing Grand Prix aims to transform and improve upon boxing’s traditional structure by introducing:

• Single-elimination bouts

• Open scoring system with instant replay technology

• The groundbreaking “WBC Enhanced Scoring System” featuring qualitative round-by-round assessments

• Five judges in advanced stages to minimize potential controversy

This system has elevated the showcase while pioneering new standards of transparency and establishing the tournament as a new benchmark for the sport of boxing

The finalists: Eight stories, four crowns, and one shared dream

The finalists competing for the José Sulaimán Trophy—the “Flame of Hope”—embody the tournament’s global spirit. Each has traveled a path marked by sacrifice, talent, and determination in pursuit of their aspirations and dreams.

Featherweight

Muhamet Qamili (Italy/Albania) – 25 years old – 17-0-1 (8 KOs)

A technically disciplined, durable boxer with a relentless pressure style. He advances to the finals following a spectacular knockout in the semifinals.

Brandon Mejía (Mexico) – 21 years old – 12-0 (10 KOs)

The breakout star of the tournament. From food delivery driver to rising national hero, his power and aggression have made him a fan favorite.

________________________________________

Super Lightweight

Carlos Utria (Colombia) – 22 years old – 13-0 (11 KOs)

Already a hometown hero in Soplaviento, his devastating power and technical mastery have him on the verge of making history for his country.

Mujibillo Tursunov (Uzbekistan) – 25 years old – 9-0 (8 KOs)

Amateur Asian champion and a technical stylist with a warrior’s heart. He’s overcome tough battles and arrives with solid, disciplined boxing.

________________________________________

Middleweight

Dylan Biggs (Australia) – 23 years old – 17-1 (9 KOs)

Ring control, counterpunching power, and an ironclad mentality. His last two fights were a masterclass in consistency.

Derek Pomerleau (Canada) – 25 years old – 15-0 (11 KOs)

One of the most technical boxers in the tournament, known for his precision and adaptability. Aims to become the new face of Canadian boxing.

________________________________________

Heavyweight

Kevin Ramírez (Argentina) – 25 years old – 11-0-2 (4 KOs)

From sweeping streets in Buenos Aires to world championship contender. A natural cruiserweight with knockout power and the ability to devastate anyone with a single blow while showcasing fierce determination and the heart of an Argentine star.

Ahmed Krnjić (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – 28 years old – 7-0 (4 KOs)

The tournament’s technical giant. Standing at 6’7″ with exemplary mobility and precision, he aims to become his region’s first Grand Prix champion.

A night that will change everything

The December 20th Finals represent:

• The conclusion of a tournament already hailed as a landmark in boxing history

• The rise of new global stars

• The fulfillment of a decades-long dream.Boxing history will be made on December 20 as the Boxing Grand Prix Finals take center stage—the first tournament-style championship of its kind in professional boxing, organized by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and backed by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sports, the General Entertainment Authority, and His Excellency Turki Alalshikh.

After eight months of fierce competition, four knockout stages, over 120 fighters from more than 40 countries, and unprecedented technological innovation, the tournament will culminate with eight finalists who have captivated the boxing world.

“The finalists take home much more than over $200,000 in prize money and the José Sulaimán trophy: They earn a World Boxing Council ranking, the chance to fight for the Silver Title, and will undoubtedly receive a flood of offers from promoters for promotional contracts and boxing stardom,” said Mauricio Sulaimán, President of the World Boxing Council.

“Those who are already participating in these Finals are very popular in their respective countries and have increased their international exposure as well.”

A new format that aims to transform boxing

Born from the vision of legendary WBC president José Sulaimán and brought to life by current president Mauricio Sulaimán, the Boxing Grand Prix aims to transform and improve upon boxing’s traditional structure by introducing:

• Single-elimination bouts

• Open scoring system with instant replay technology

• The groundbreaking “WBC Enhanced Scoring System” featuring qualitative round-by-round assessments

• Five judges in advanced stages to minimize potential controversy

This system has elevated the showcase while pioneering new standards of transparency and establishing the tournament as a new benchmark for the sport of boxing

The finalists: Eight stories, four crowns, and one shared dream

The finalists competing for the José Sulaimán Trophy—the “Flame of Hope”—embody the tournament’s global spirit. Each has traveled a path marked by sacrifice, talent, and determination in pursuit of their aspirations and dreams.

Featherweight

Muhamet Qamili (Italy/Albania) – 25 years old – 17-0-1 (8 KOs)

A technically disciplined, durable boxer with a relentless pressure style. He advances to the finals following a spectacular knockout in the semifinals.

Brandon Mejía (Mexico) – 21 years old – 12-0 (10 KOs)

The breakout star of the tournament. From food delivery driver to rising national hero, his power and aggression have made him a fan favorite.

________________________________________

Super Lightweight

Carlos Utria (Colombia) – 22 years old – 13-0 (11 KOs)

Already a hometown hero in Soplaviento, his devastating power and technical mastery have him on the verge of making history for his country.

Mujibillo Tursunov (Uzbekistan) – 25 years old – 9-0 (8 KOs)

Amateur Asian champion and a technical stylist with a warrior’s heart. He’s overcome tough battles and arrives with solid, disciplined boxing.

________________________________________

Middleweight

Dylan Biggs (Australia) – 23 years old – 17-1 (9 KOs)

Ring control, counterpunching power, and an ironclad mentality. His last two fights were a masterclass in consistency.

Derek Pomerleau (Canada) – 25 years old – 15-0 (11 KOs)

One of the most technical boxers in the tournament, known for his precision and adaptability. Aims to become the new face of Canadian boxing.

________________________________________

Heavyweight

Kevin Ramírez (Argentina) – 25 years old – 11-0-2 (4 KOs)

From sweeping streets in Buenos Aires to world championship contender. A natural cruiserweight with knockout power and the ability to devastate anyone with a single blow while showcasing fierce determination and the heart of an Argentine star.

Ahmed Krnjić (Bosnia and Herzegovina) – 28 years old – 7-0 (4 KOs)

The tournament’s technical giant. Standing at 6’7″ with exemplary mobility and precision, he aims to become his region’s first Grand Prix champion.

A night that will change everything

The December 20th Finals represent:

• The conclusion of a tournament already hailed as a landmark in boxing history

• The rise of new global stars

• The fulfillment of a decades-long dream.




Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:

  • Can Tapales Overpower Oguni to Increase his Chances of Another World Title Fight?
    By Carlos Costa, , Thu, 02 Apr 2026
  • BROWN-DUCAR PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES IN FULL: EVERYTHING THAT WAS SAID AHEAD OF FRIDAY'S ALTRINCHAM FIGHT NIGHT
    , Thu, 02 Apr 2026
  • Wise Owl Boxing Makes Headlines Again with Signing of Former World Champion  Julio Cesar “El Rey” Martinez
    , Thu, 02 Apr 2026
  • Santiago-Taniguchi Final Presser
    , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • Jimuel in Action on Friday!
    By Carlos Costa, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • “Rumble in the Une” Makes History in Union City with Star-Studded Fight Card Headlined by Jacob Macalolooy
    , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • Is Floyd chickening out?
    By Joaquin Henson, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • Bacaro to challenge Toyoshima on April 4
    By Lito delos Reyes, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • IBA steps forward as potential organiser for Bivol vs Beterbiev trilogy bout
    , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • PBF president Almario dies
    By Lito delos Reyes, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • Portland Trail Blazers have new owner after $4.25 billion sale
    By Gabriel F. Cordero, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • PH chess wizard seven-year old Noah Lucas Palcis finishes second in Bangkok chess
    By Marlon Bernardino, , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • 2 Time World Champion Marcos Maidana Confirmed for Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 2, in Las Vegas
    , Wed, 01 Apr 2026
  • THE PAST WEEK IN ACTION 30 MARCH 2026: Itauma Destroys Franklin in 5; Fundora Dismantles Thurman in 6
    By Eric Armit, , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • Panamanian WBC Judge Jesus Aleman murdered in Panama
    By Gabriel F. Cordero, , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • ‘I won’t be holding anything back! – Big Bad Bazley challenges The Pilgrim Ryan Williams for Heavyweight title May 29 in Perth – Thunderdome 54
    , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • ZAYAS AND BOOTS CLASH IN UNIFIED BLOCKBUSTER AT BARCLAYS CENTER, BROOKLYN ON JUNE 27 – LIVE AND EXCLUSIVE ON DAZN PPV
    , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • Manny Pacquiao Promotions Announces Full Card to Join Taduran Vs. Perez on Friday, April 3, at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif. Live on ESPN Knockout
    , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • 13-0 prospect Marco Romero hasn’t lost a Fight in nearly 7 years and he’s only 20
    , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • WORLD ELITE SUMO ANNOUNCES NEW DATE – SATURDAY, MAY 16 – FOR LIVE PROFESSIONAL SUMO EVENT AT PRUDENTIAL CENTER
    , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • Filipino boy, 15, wins US chess meet
    By Marlon Bernardino, , Tue, 31 Mar 2026
  • 60 Years of Top Rank: Bob Arum’s First Fight Launched a Boxing Empire
    , Mon, 30 Mar 2026
  • Lebron James and son Bronny make NBA History
    By Gabriel F. Cordero, , Mon, 30 Mar 2026
  • Bryan Acosta Wins WBA Continental Americas Featherweight Championship with Unanimous Decision over Ronny Rios in Main Event of ProBoxTV from Thunder Studios in Long Beach
    , Sun, 29 Mar 2026
  • Filipino boy, 9, wins in Canada chess meet
    By Marlon Bernardino, , Sun, 29 Mar 2026




  •  



     
    PhilBoxing.com has been created to support every aspiring
    Filipino boxer and the Philippine boxing scene in general.
    Please send comments to feedback@philboxing.com


    PRIVATE POLICY | LEGAL DISCLAIMER
    developed and maintained by dong secuya
    © 2026 philboxing.com.