Filipino Boxers Villarosa and Dacles Gear Up for International Debuts in Kyrgyzstan
Unbeaten Filipino boxers Claire Villarosa and Dan Dacles are set to make their mark on the global stage as they feature on the undercard of the highly anticipated World Boxing Association (WBA) Gold super-bantamweight championship bout. The event, headlined by Johnriel Casimero versus Luis Nery, will take place on April 18, 2026, at the Gazprom Sports Complex in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Villarosa Faces Japanese Prospect Hanada in Super-Flyweight Clash
Claire Villarosa, the reigning Philippine Youth super-flyweight champion, will step into the ring for an eight-round super-flyweight contest against Japan's Hayate Hanada. This bout marks Villarosa's international debut, as all of his previous fights have been held in the Philippines. He earned his title last year with a second-round knockout victory over John Rey Labajo.
Villarosa, who holds a record of 6-0-1 with four knockouts, is expected to face his toughest challenge yet against Hanada. The 23-year-old Japanese fighter has already defeated two Filipino opponents, Kenneth Rapista and Yeroge Gura, and his only career loss came against former world title challenger Rene Calixto in 2023. Hanada boasts a record of 5-1-1 with two knockouts, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
Dacles Takes on Undefeated Uzbek Fighter Kholdarov
In another exciting matchup, Dan Dacles will go head-to-head with undefeated Uzbek boxer Ikboljon Kholdarov in an eight-round super-welterweight fight. Dacles has built an impressive career over three years, securing victories over seasoned veterans such as Roberto Gonzales, Leonardo Doronio, and Nelson Tinampay.
However, Dacles has never encountered an opponent as skilled and experienced as Kholdarov. Despite having only seven professional bouts, Kholdarov brings a wealth of amateur experience, with 89 matches under his belt. His accolades include a silver medal at the 2017 World Championships, as well as gold medals at the 2017 Asian Championships and the 2018 Asian Games.
Dacles holds a record of 8-0-2 with five knockouts, while Kholdarov is 7-0 with six knockouts, promising a high-stakes battle between two rising stars in the boxing world.
