左から前島会長、メインの大畑、世界に挑むビセレス、担当の中野トレーナー

The world title contest marks the first time in 35 years that a world championship bout will be staged in Shizuoka Prefecture, following the WBC world strawweight title match between Ricardo Lopez and Kimio Hirano. “I am delighted to receive this opportunity to compete for a world title, which has been my dream since I began boxing in Japan,” Vicelles stated. A victory for Vicelles would produce the first world champion from a gym located in Shizuoka Prefecture, realizing a founding ambition of gym president Maejima.

The 30-year-old Filipino native arrived in Japan 18 months ago under a trainer’s contract with the Suruga Danji Gym. He subsequently resumed his active competitive career, registering two victories against one defeat in three bouts held in Japan. In April, Vicelles secured a decision victory over compatriot Carlo Diaz in Hamamatsu to capture the vacant OPBF light-flyweight title.

“The champion applies strong pressure and is an aggressive fighter with an effective straight punch. I will consult with my trainer to ensure I do not get caught,” Vicelles remarked conservatively regarding his tactical approach. Due to the confirmation of the world title challenge, the OPBF regional title will be automatically vacated. Vicelles carries a professional record of 20 wins (11 KOs), 5 losses, and 1 draw.

The reigning champion, 25-year-old Thanongsak, operates under a promotional agreement with the Green Tsuda Gym. He captured the IBF crown via a decision victory over Christian Araneta (Philippines) in June last year, and subsequently completed his first successful defense with a second-round knockout of Sergio Mendoza (Mexico) at Korakuen Hall in April this year. His professional record stands at 40 wins (35 KOs) and 1 loss.

The 26 September event will feature this world title contest as the co-main event. The main event will see Vicelles’ stablemate, Shumpei Ohata (Suruga Danji), make the first defense of the WBO Asia Pacific super-featherweight title he captured in March, facing veteran former OPBF champion Pete Apolinar (Philippines). While Ohata offered a reserved outlook, stating he is “completely focused on securing the victory,” trainer Yuji Nakano provided a more assertive assessment, adding, “I intend to guide both Vicelles and Ohata to knockout victories.”

As part of the “Fujinokuni Matsuri,” which features numerous youth-oriented activities, admission will be free of charge for children of junior high school age and under. The organizers are also recruiting round girls from female applicants of elementary school age and under.

The event is scheduled to be broadcast free of charge on the official Suruga Danji Gym YouTube channel.