Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, in partnership with IBA Pro, announced a world-title event set to rock the Smart Araneta Coliseum on October 29th. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the legendary Thrilla in Manila, this blockbuster card, headlined by WBC minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem making a home-country defense against South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse (9-2-1). Also on the show, former two-division champion Marlon “The Nightmare” Tapales (38-4, 20 KOs) takes on Venezuela’s Fernando Toro (13-2) in a ten-round slugfest. The undercard will also an appearance from Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali. Walsh is booked to fight Kittisak Klinson (10-2) in a six rounder.
Undefeated Carl Jammes “Wonder Boy” Martin (23-0, 18 KOs) faces Thailand’s Aran Dipaen in a ten-round showdown. Martin’s explosive power could catapult him toward a world title, but Dipaen’s toughness guarantees a battle... undefeated Eman Bacosa (10-0, 6 KOs), a Davao star, returns with his blazing speed and slick skills in a six-round bout... 2021 Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (5-0, 3 KOs) storms back in a six-round clash against an unnamed opponent.
Pacquiao, the CEO of MP Promotions, said: “The Thrilla in Manila lit a fire in my heart as a kid, pushing me to dream big. Bringing Thrilla in Manila 2 to Manila with IBA Pro is my way of passing that fire to the next generation. On October 29, we’re making history again, and the world will feel the heat of Filipino pride!”
Al Siesta, Director of IBA Pro, said: “Partnering with Manny Pacquiao and MP Promotions for Thrilla in Manila 2 is a game-changer. This event blends Manila’s rich boxing legacy with global star power, from Melvin Jerusalem’s title defense to Nico Ali Walsh’s historic return. We’re delivering a night that will thrill fans and shake the boxing world.”
Born in 1978 in Kibawe, Philippines, Manny Pacquiao defied all odds to become the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, boasting a record of 62-8-3 (39 KOs). His legendary wins over Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, and Timothy Bradley earned him Fighter of the Decade honors for the 2000s and a 2025 induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Beyond the ring, Pacquiao’s journey as a Philippine senator, philanthropist through the Manny Pacquiao Foundation, and cultural icon embodies resilience. Now, through MP Promotions (Blow by Blow), he’s putting Manila back in the spotlight, showcasing Filipino and international talent to a global audience.
IBA Pro is led by director Al Siesta (Albert Khachaturov). Alongside MP Promotions (Blow by Blow), Pacquiao’s platform for nurturing Filipino talent, they’re set to make Thrilla in Manila 2 a global sensation. Tickets are on sale now, and the event will be streamed live worldwide, bringing Manila’s electric energy to every corner of the globe.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
AUG. 23, 2025: WBC minimumweight champion Melvin “El Gringo” Jerusalem is preparing for his third title defense in October. Originally, the Filipino Jerusalem was set to face Mexico's Daniel Valladares, but due to logistical changes, South Africa's Siyakholwa Kuse has been confirmed as his new opponent. Kuse, ranked #2 by the WBC, is a 22 year-old southpaw with a professional record of 9 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw, and 4 KOs. In his most recent fight, held in May 2025, he defeated Filipino Sammy Salva. This will be his first opportunity to fight for a world title. Jerusalem, age 31, has been training in Nagoya, Japan since early August to strengthen his physical and technical preparation. With a record of 24 wins, 3 losses, and 12 KOs, the Filipino aims to maintain his world champion status and continue his path toward unifying the major world titles. The bout between Jerusalem and Kuse will take place in Manila, on a date to be confirmed. This matchup promises to be an exciting battle, with both fighters aiming to make their mark in boxing history.
