Round 12 with Mauricio Sulaiman: A Great Night of Boxing in Japan
By Mauricio Sulaimán
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 17 Apr 2026
I am writing to you from Japan, after spending some incredible days witnessing a truly marvelous event. The magic of boxing shone with renewed intensity here—a land that breathes discipline, honor, and a deep-rooted passion for our sport.
The recent card will be remembered as a historic night, where the talent, technique, and heart of both Japanese and Mexican fighters combined for a simply extraordinary evening.
Tenshin, having won the final eliminator, now awaits his opportunity to become the WBC Bantamweight Champion. He must wait to see who his opponent will be; the current champion, Takuma Inoue, is set to defend his title on May 2nd against Kazuto Ioka.
On that same Saturday card, our dear Pedro Guevara was unable to continue his bout against Tomoya Tsuboi following an accidental clash of heads. “Pedrín” could not finish the fight and received medical attention in the ring. To rule out any complications, he was taken to the hospital for tests, including a CT scan. Fortunately, he is stable. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back in the ring soon.
Taking advantage of my visit, I met with Akihiko Honda, one of the most respected boxing promoters in the world. I also visited the Teiken Gym, which is currently celebrating 100 years of greatness under Mr. Honda’s leadership.
While in Japan, we learned that George Morikawa, creator of the famous anime Hajime No Ippo, had been hospitalized with health issues. Fortunately, he has been discharged and is now recovering at home. Morikawa brought boxing to the world through manga and anime. As a sign of respect and well wishes for his recovery, all the boxers from Saturday’s card signed a WBC mini-belt, which we will deliver to him.
img src="https://philboxing.com/news/pix/r12-great.night.in.japan.10.450w.jpg">
Meanwhile, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, a massive event took place headlined by Tyson Fury, who returned from a 16-month retirement to completely dominate and defeat Russia’s Arslanbek Makhmudov. The atmosphere surrounding the event was spectacular—the show, the fights, the lights, the pyrotechnics, and Fury’s entrance were all wonderful. The former WBC Heavyweight Champion proved his quality in the ring, where we will surely see him again.
What we witnessed in Tokyo and London confirms that both cities are established epicenters of world boxing. The respectful and passionate fans created an unrivaled atmosphere, and the organization of both events reflected the highest professional standards.
Events like these remind us why we love boxing. Beyond the results, we celebrate the competitive spirit, the mutual respect between warriors, and the sport’s ability to unite thousands of people. Boxing is more alive than ever.
Did you know…?
The fight between Tenshin Nasukawa and Juan Francisco “Gallo” Estrada made it clear that there were two great warriors in the ring willing to do anything for their dreams. “Gallo” fought with two broken ribs, and by the end of the ninth round, it became nearly impossible for him to breathe, which is why he decided not to continue.
Today’s Anecdote
Don José always praised the determination and character of Mexican boxers. He described them as authentic warriors with brave hearts who leave their last breath on the canvas in pursuit of victory.
“Gallo” Estrada confirmed my father’s words: a man who gave every last ounce of effort to win, until the severity of his injuries made it impossible to go on, forcing him to concede to the Japanese star.
I welcome your comments at contact@wbcboxing.com
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Mauricio Sulaimán.
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