South African Contender Touches Down in Bohol for High-Stakes Boxing Clash
In a pivotal moment for the upcoming boxing spectacle, experienced South African fighter Siphamandla Baleni arrived at the Bohol Panglao International Airport last Tuesday night, February 24, 2026. He was greeted by PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions matchmaker Ronel Robles, signaling the start of intense preparations for his crucial bout against Filipino contender Regie Suganob.
Journey and Preparation for the Main Event
Baleni, accompanied by his trainer Jack Khangelani, embarked on a long-haul trip from South Africa to Manila before immediately flying to Bohol. This swift travel underscores the urgency as they gear up for the 10-round main event of Kumong Bol-anon XXIV, organized by PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions. The highly anticipated boxing card is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Bohol Cultural Center.
At 35 years old, Baleni is determined to stage a dramatic comeback after suffering losses in his last three fights against formidable, world-rated opponents: Beaven Sibanda, Hasanboy Dusmatov, and Abongile Jacobs. He aims to pull off a significant upset against Suganob, who remains active in the ring while eyeing a potential world title shot later this year.
Baleni's Career Highlights and Record Analysis
Baleni's career includes notable challenges, having fought twice for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) minimumweight title, though he lost both bouts to Ayanda Ndulani. In 2019, he faced former world champion Nkosinathi Joyi, resulting in a technical draw. His professional record stands at 21 wins, eight losses, and two draws, with eight knockouts. In contrast, Suganob boasts a record of 17 wins and only one loss, with six knockouts, setting the stage for a compelling matchup.
Undercard Features Promising Talents and Legacy Fighters
The event will also showcase rising stars and established names in the boxing world. Eman Bacosa Pacquiao, son of legendary boxer Manny Pacquiao, will take on Indonesia's Reynold Kundimang. Pacquiao holds an undefeated record of 7-0-1 with four knockouts, while Kundimang has a record of 9-7-3 with two knockouts.
Additionally, world-ranked fighter Joseph Sumabong, with a record of 9-1 and four knockouts, will battle Roland Toyogon, who has an 8-2-1 record and four knockouts. The undercard further includes Cebuanos Christian Balunan and Reymart Tagacanao. Balunan, with a 12-1 record and seven knockouts, faces Roldan Sasan (8-8-1, 3 knockouts), while Tagacanao, at 11-1 with nine knockouts, goes up against Anthony Gilbuela (8-8-3, 2 knockouts).
This stacked lineup promises an electrifying night of boxing, blending international intrigue with local talent, all under the banner of PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions' commitment to the sport.
