The Second Rise of Jesse Espinas
By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 04 Jul 2025
World-ranked Jesse Espinas, affectionately known as "Little Giant," is still a force to be reckoned with in Asian boxing.
Hailing from Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines, Espinas is again making waves in the sport since his debut in April 2012.
With a career spanning over 13 years, he has built a record that proves that he is a real warrior who has fought some of the very best boxers here in the Philippines and around Asia, with no fear at all.
That is why boxing enthusiasts and promoters alike do not forget who Jesse Espinas, the popular “Little Giant” is.
Espinas wins his last fight in China on June 21, 2025 stopping Asian Champ Jiangtao Cao.
👉 Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Espinas's journey in boxing began 13 years ago when he quickly demonstrated his potential with a string of victories.
His southpaw stance and aggressive fighting style earned him a reputation as a tough opponent in the ring.
As he gained experience, Espinas continued to climb the ranks, eventually catching the attention of my old Cebu hermano, promoter Sammy Gello-ani.
Nowadays, Jesse is guided by coach/promoter Brico Santig of the Highland Boxing Gym.
Espinas poses with his coach Allan Alegria.
👉 Notable Fights and Achievements
One of the standout moments in Espinas's career came when he faced previously unbeaten Thai boxer Paipharob Kokietgym in 2016.
He was supposed to be the dude B, but in a stunning display of skill and determination, Espinas secured an eighth-round TKO victory, impressing fans and solidifying his image as a fearsome fighter with the heart of a lion.
This win showcased Espinas's ability to perform under pressure and his capacity to adapt during battle. Isn’t that cool?
In his most recent war, Jesse Espinas claimed the WBC Asian Super Flyweight Title with a 5th-round stoppage of Asian Champ Jiangtao Cao on June 21, 2025, in Huhehaote, China.
During that exciting fight that I watched online, Espinas was just awesome against a much taller opponent.
Yet, with the guidance in his corner of coaches Brico Santig of Benguet and coach Marvin Alegria (son of my old friend brother head coach sir Alan Alegria), Jesse Espinas claimed a thrilling win, filling with pride and joy his family, his Highland teammates, his fans back home and friends.
This victory not only adds to his record, improving his world ranking to # 11 in the WBO, but also demonstrated his determination and continued commitment to boxing.
Despite doubters who look at his defeats in his record, Jesse Espinas delivered to Pinoy fans a win, earning the coveted green WBC Asia Super Flyweight belt.
👉 Dedication and Bravery
After his latest fight, Espinas's professional record stands now at 27 wins, 7 losses, and 1 draw, with 14 knockouts.
He has competed in the super flyweight division, although he has occasionally moved in weight-classes for certain bouts.
His ability to compete effectively across different weight classes is a testament to his versatility, heart of a lion, and skill as a boxer.
With his good image and recent win, Espinas is still poised to make waves in our sport of boxing boxing.
As Jesse continues his journey in boxing, climbing the world rankings, we wish him all the best always!
With his determination, skill, and experience, Jesse Espinas is undoubtedly an exciting boxer to watch.
Jesse Espinas's career is an inspiring testament to his hard work, dedication, and bravery.
As he continues to push the boundaries of his abilities and challenge himself against the best, there is no doubt that "Little Giant" remains a popular boxer, he is our courageous and friendly “Little Giant” in Filipino boxing.
The author is Carlos Costa of Cebu.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.
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