“The fans will be the true winners” – Angel Ayala ready for IBA PRO 18 in Mexico City
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 19 May 2026
Lausanne, Switzerland — The countdown to a highly anticipated night of professional boxing has officially begun following a press conference in the capital of Mexico ahead of Thursday' IBA PRO 18 event at the Arena Ciudad de México.
A high-quality night of professional boxing is set for May 21 at Arena CDMX, co-promoted by International Boxing Association (IBA) and Zanfer Boxing.
During the press conference on Monday, the organisers of the night were joined by officials from the Mexico City Boxing Commission, and most of the fighters who will be part of the evening, which will showcase talent from Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Africa, and the Philippines.
The main event will mark the return to the ring of flyweight champion Ángel Ayala. He expressed his motivation not only to headline an internationally represented event backed by major names in Mexican boxing, but also to begin his journey toward reclaiming his world champion status, which he lost a year ago in Japan against Masamichi Yabuki.
"I am very happy because the time to return has finally come. I am surrounded by good fighters, and it is going to be a great night where the fans will be the true winners," Ayala commented.
The Mexican fighter will face Filipino Jayson Mama, a rival with international experience who represents a significant test in the current landscape of the flyweight division. The bout is generating high expectations given Ayala’s current form and his opportunity to re-establish himself among the top names in the category.
Another highlight sees Jonathan Fierro (21-1, 18 KOs) square off against Sergio Chirino Sanchez (23-2, 13 KOs) in a super featherweight matchup between two experienced fighters with strong knockout ratios.
"I know it will be a great fight; neither of us takes a step backward. I am going ready for war, and I know I will walk out of there with a knockout victory," Sergio Chirino assured.
The card also features a compelling women’s featherweight bout, where Mexico’s Yamileth Mercado (24-4, 5 KOs) meets Colombia’s Flor Valentina Rodriguez (9-2, 6 KOs), adding further depth and international flavour to the event.
Guillermo Brito, representing Zanfer boxing, expressed confidence in the response of the Mexican fanbase.
"It is a major challenge we have ahead of us. There wasn't much time, but it is a top-tier fight card, and we trust the fans will respond well. We are certain it will be a great night," he noted.
The May 21 event is expected to draw strong local support at Arena CDMX while also capturing international attention thanks to its balanced matchmaking and depth across divisions.
The tickets for the IBA Pro 18 are available for purchase at Superboletos
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