Kenneth “Llover Boy” Takes on “El Nica” Concepcion Aug 17 on Gerry Peñalosa’s Show @ the Winford Resort and Casino Manila (Analysis)
By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 11 Jul 2025
MANILA, Philippines — The highly anticipated return of Filipino boxing sensation Kenneth “Lover Boy” Llover is finally here!!!
Kenneth Llover, one of the Philippines' brightest hopes for a world title, is set to battle Panamanian 2-division world champion Luis "El Nica" Concepcion on August 17 at the Winford Resort and Casino here in Manila.
Coming off from brutal wins over Japanese fighters Tulio Dekanarudo and Keita Kurihara, “Llover Boy” wants to use the veteran Concepcion as a stepping stone towards a world title crack.
It really seems as a good plan. Will it work?
With a record of 14-0 and 9 KOs, the 22-year-old Llover is known by fans for his explosive power and speed, which will undoubtedly put “Nica’s” wide experience to the test.
Meanwhile, “El Nica” Concepcion, a seasoned 39-year-old veteran with a record of 40-11 and 29 KOs, is still considered by many fans as a tough opponent.
With over 50 fights under his belt, Concepcion brings a wealth of experience that will push Llover to the next level.
Yes, “Nica” is nowhere near his prime. But he can still punch really hard. In a blink of an eye he could send the Lover Boy to dreamland!! Could that happen?
Kenneth Llover (R) connects with a right at his Japanese opponent.
Our dear hermano, Promoter Gerry Peñalosa, a 2-division king himself, believes that “Nica” Concepción will be Llover's most difficult test yet, and I agree with that.
That’s what the always awesome Gerry Peñalosa told our hermano Nick Giongco in a recent interview for of The Daily Tribune.
Then, the stage is set for an explosive night of boxing at the plush Winford Hotel and Casino in Santa Cruz, Metro Manila, with Llover looking to prove himself against a highly decorated, lion-heart foe.
Notably, Kameda Promotions is teaming up with Gerry to stage the showdown in Manila, and Kameda's chief, Koki Kameda — a 3-division world champion — will be in attendance to witness the exciting rumble.
El Nica Concepcion (L) unloads an uppercut.
Interestingly, also in attendance on fight night will be former king Dodie Boy Peñalosa, yet another 2-division world-champion (IBF 108 and IBF 112 world champ), who is the brother and right-hand man Gerry, as well as an important part of Peñalosa Promotions
August 17 will be the night of former multi-division world champions in attendance, a distinction that this fight deserves. 👍
BTW, it’s not yet known if the Kenneth Llover vs “Nica” Concepcion will be for any title.
But it does not really matter. Because this fight is thrilling!
The Skilled Up-and-Coming Young Gun vs. The Experienced Battle-Tested Old Champ!
Who will win!!!
Importantly, Kenneth Llover's sensational performances in Japan have earned him a ranking in The Ring magazine, so this rumble will be a crucial test of his heart, speed, chin, and power!
So, will Llover's power and aggression be enough to overcome Concepcion's fantastic experience?
Or will the Panamanian former 2-división world champion prove to be too much for the Pinoy riding-star boxer from General Trias, Cavite?
The boxing fans will be eagerly watching as “Llover Boy” takes on the challenge of a lifetime!
This highly anticipated rumble — billed by promoters as “Mano a Mano” — promises to be an unforgettable night of good old-school boxing, with both explosive, hard-hitting fighters looking to assert their dominance at the packed Winford Resort and Casino.
The final and most important question on every fan's mind is: who will emerge victorious?
Will it be Llover's youthful energy and explosive power?
Or will “Nica” Concepcion's experience and cunning instinct lead him to victory?
Could Kenneth’s super complicated southpaw stance, plus being the local fighter, plus being 17 years younger play a role on top of the ring?
We can’t miss it! You can’t miss it!!! Let’s be there!! Hope you liked my writing, hahaha 😝
Good luck to both fighters, May the best man win!
Written by Carlos Costa, Cebu 🇵🇭 carlos@philboxing.com
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.
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