FIGHT ON, CHARLY

 Our Filipino pride, Charly "The King's Warrior" Suarez, remains undefeated with an impressive record of 18-0 as he prepares to face American fighter Manuel Avila (26-2-1) for the WBO International Super Featherweight Title on July 18, 2026, at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino. This fight is another opportunity for Suarez to prove that Filipino boxers can compete with the best in the world.

I feel especially inspired because I had the chance to meet Charly Suarez twice. The most recent occasion was during the 50th anniversary celebration of the historic Ali-Frazier fight at the Araneta Coliseum in 2025. Even though our meetings were brief, they left a strong impression on me. He carried himself with humility and determination, qualities that reflect the true spirit of a champion. Seeing a successful athlete remain grounded makes me even prouder to support him.

Suarez's most notable yet controversial bout was his May 10, 2025, world title challenge against Emanuel Navarrete for the WBO junior lightweight title. The fight, which remains Suarez's most recent bout, was initially ruled a technical decision victory for Navarrete after a cut stopped the contest in the eighth round. However, the result was later overturned to a no contest after a review of the footage indicated that the cut may have been caused by a legal punch from Suarez rather than a head clash, leading to calls for a rematch. A victory over Avila would keep Suarez in a strong position for a rematch with WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete.

Coach Delfin Boholst, in my interview, asked for the support of every Filipino and promised that they would do everything they could to secure the victory against Navarrete.

It was also reported that three-division world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko could face the winner of a potential Navarrete–O'Shaquie Foster bout, adding further significance to developments in the division.

As he steps into the ring against Avila, I hope he continues his winning streak and brings home another championship for the Philippines. More than the title itself, his journey serves as an inspiration to many Filipinos who dream of achieving success through hard work, discipline, and perseverance.

Good luck, Charly Suarez—may your undefeated record continue, and may you make our country proud once again.