WBO & WBA World Champion René “El Chulo” Santiago Hosts Open Media Workout Ahead of April 3 Title Defense in Tokyo
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 26 Mar 2026
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico — March 25, 2026 — Unified WBO and WBA World Champion René “El Chulo” Santiago held a high-energy open media workout this past Monday at the Félix Pagán Pintor Gym in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, giving fans and media a final look at his preparation ahead of his highly anticipated title defense on April 3rd at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan.
Santiago will defend his world titles against former world champion Masataka Taniguchi in what promises to be a thrilling international showdown. The event will be broadcast live on U-Next in Japan, ESPN KnockOut across Latin America, and WAPA Deportes in Puerto Rico.
The champion looked sharp and focused throughout the session, displaying his signature speed, crisp combinations, and defensive prowess during shadowboxing, pad work, and bag drills.
“This is the best camp I’ve had,” said Santiago. “I’m locked in and ready to represent Puerto Rico at the highest level. Fighting in Tokyo is a huge opportunity, and I’m going to make the most of it on April 3rd.”
Promoter Tuto Zabala of All Star Boxing, Inc. expressed full confidence in his fighter’s readiness and star power on the global stage.
“René Santiago is coming into this fight in peak condition,” said Zabala. “He’s a true champion, and on April 3rd, the world will see why he holds both the WBO and WBA titles. We’re proud to bring this fight to an international audience alongside our partners in Japan.”
The card is being co-promoted by former world champion Masayuki Ito of Treasure Promotions and Tuto Zabala of All Star Boxing, Inc., further highlighting the global collaboration behind this event.
Following the successful workout, Santiago departed today for Tokyo with his team, including promoter Félix “Tuto” Zabala Jr., trainers Jonathan Lopez and Jesus Ayala, and assistant Jessica Martinez, as they enter fight week preparations.
Fans in attendance at the public workout were treated to an electric atmosphere, with Santiago taking time to interact, sign autographs, and thank supporters before heading overseas.
With momentum on his side and two world titles to defend, René “El Chulo” Santiago is ready to deliver a standout performance on April 3rd in Tokyo.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
“Lucky Boy" Alicaba Ready for Action Friday in Thailand
By Carlos Costa, Thu, 26 Mar 2026WBO & WBA World Champion René “El Chulo” Santiago Hosts Open Media Workout Ahead of April 3 Title Defense in Tokyo
Thu, 26 Mar 2026Former WBA FEDELATIN President Panamanian Aurelio Fiengo passes away
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Thu, 26 Mar 2026The 19th edition of the Kamatyas Rapid Open and Kiddies Chess Tournament on March 28, 2026
By Marlon Bernardino, Thu, 26 Mar 2026WIG-WHAM! MILLER PLANS ‘OLD SCHOOL’ BEATING OF PERO IN LAS VEGAS
Thu, 26 Mar 2026ProBoxTV Bringing a Storm of Flying Leather to Thunder Studios This Saturday, March 28, as Bryan Acosta Collides with Ronny Rios in Crossroads Bantamweight Slugfest
Thu, 26 Mar 2026Vito Mielnicki Jr. Training Camp Quotes
Thu, 26 Mar 2026Remembering Mr. Elorde: Still the Gold Standard
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT, Wed, 25 Mar 2026House of Representatives say yes to the Boxing Revitalization Act and it is now sent to the Senate
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 25 Mar 2026Ryan ‘The Polish Prince’ Kielczweski To return after 4-year layoff to fight at home on Granite Chin’s ‘Rumble at the Rink II’ card
Wed, 25 Mar 2026Ellaine Summer Abanco wins silver medal on tiebreak
By Marlon Bernardino, Wed, 25 Mar 2026Catubig, McDowell win in DC Athletic 4
By Lito delos Reyes, Wed, 25 Mar 2026Team Juna wins first competition in IRONMAN 70.3 Davao
By Kim delos Reyes-Teves, Wed, 25 Mar 2026Round 12: Without Promoters there is no Boxing
By Mauricio Sulaimán, Wed, 25 Mar 2026Mexican female IBF Champion Irma Garcia to defend on April 5 in England
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 25 Mar 2026