Santisima Faces Undefeated Grigoryan for IBF Asia Title in Russia
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 14 Apr 2026
Former world title challenger Jeo Santisima is set to return to the international stage this Friday, April 17, when he faces rising Russian prospect Mikhail Grigoryan for the vacant IBF Asia Lightweight Title.
Santisima (26-7, 19 KOs) is best known for his spirited 2020 challenge against Emanuel Navarrete for the WBO World Title. Though he fell in the 11th round, Santisima proved he could compete at the elite level, pushing the champion in several competitive rounds. Currently holding a high ranking on BoxRec, the Filipino veteran represents a massive "step up" in class for his opponent.
The 22-year-old Grigoryan enters the ring with a pristine 8-0 record (2 KOs). While he boasts a decorated amateur pedigree, he has yet to face a fighter with the seasoning or power of Santisima.
"Jeo Santisima is a world-class challenger who lasted 11 rounds with Navarrete," said Australian Hall of Fame Promoter Peter Maniatis. "He fought exceptionally well in that bout, and I expect him to bring that same intensity to this fight. Mikhail Grigoryan is a talented, undefeated young boxer, but this is a high-level test for him."
The bout, to be held in Serpukhov—approximately 100km from Moscow—has significant implications for the winner’s career trajectory. Matchmaker Oleg Bogdanov expressed satisfaction with the pairing, noting that it will serve as a firm litmus test for Grigoryan’s potential.
"The winner of this matchup will be seeking a formal IBF ranking," Maniatis added. "The prize is the vacant IBF Asia 61.23kg (Lightweight) title, and a victory here puts either man on the path toward a world ranking."
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