Domingo and Fajardo Clash for IBF Asia Flyweight Title in Manila

ESNETH Domingo and Miel Fajardo are set to compete for the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Asia flyweight title in a highly anticipated all-Filipino showdown scheduled for October 26, 2025, at the San Andres Sports Complex in Manila.

The 28-year-old Domingo is aiming to regain momentum after a recent setback that affected his position in the world rankings. Currently ranked No. 11 by the IBF and No. 15 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Domingo needs a decisive victory to climb back up the flyweight ladder. Earlier this year, Domingo suffered a unanimous decision loss to Japan's Jukiya Iimura in an Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) flyweight title fight. However, he rebounded with a third-round stoppage win over Ariston Aton last month in General Santos City.

Meanwhile, 25-year-old Fajardo is looking to re-enter the world rankings following a tough period marked by two consecutive losses in regional title bouts last year. He was defeated by Thanongsak Simsri via unanimous decision in an OPBF light-flyweight contest and later suffered a loss to Mchanja Yohana in a WBO Global flyweight title match. Fajardo has since regained form by delivering a swift first-round knockout against Miller Alapormina in Parañaque City.

Domingo brings a record of 22 wins, 3 losses, and 14 knockouts, while Fajardo holds a mark of 12 wins, 3 losses, 2 draws, and 11 knockouts.

The event's main attraction features an all-Filipino world title bout with reigning IBF minimumweight champion Pedro Taduran (18-4-1, 13 KOs) defending his belt against the unbeaten Cebuano prospect Christian Balunan (12-0, 7 KOs).

Adding to the excitement, Cebuano sensation AJ Paciones (11-0, 6 KOs) will face Jeraldine Ocrarit (5-1, 5 KOs). Other notable matches include Lienard Sarcon (13-0, 5 KOs) versus Cebu-based Junibert Bantay (9-0, 1 KO), Hong Kong's undefeated veteran Rex Tso (23-0, 14 KOs) battling Indian challenger Sagar Chouhan (6-0-2, 2 KOs) in his second consecutive fight in the Philippines, and Junny Bugas (6-2, 3 KOs) taking on Richard Garde (11-3, 9 KOs).

This fight card promises an action-packed night as Filipino boxing continues to showcase its rising stars and defend its position on the international stage.