The Filipino Junior Flyweight Snub: Araneta, Paciones, and Suganob, The Invisible Top Contenders

 

Philippines no.1 Junior Flyweights, AJ Paciones, Christian Aranera and Regie Suganob

Why are the Filipino number-one-ranked fighters being overlooked? Is it fear? A calculated business decision? Or perhaps the risk outweighs the reward? These questions linger, and while we can only speculate, let’s shine a spotlight on three deserving Filipino contenders who have worked their way to the top but continue to wait for their well-earned shot at world titles.

Christian Araneta - IBF Junior Flyweight No. 1

Christian Araneta with former World Champ John Riel Casimero

Waiting to Explode

Christian Araneta, a 29-year-old from Cebu City under the Omega Boxing Gym, has fought his way to prominence. As of now, he’s ranked No. 1 by the IBF, No. 6 by the WBA, No. 11 by the WBC, and No. 7 by the WBO. Despite being recognized across all major sanctioning bodies, Araneta’s name is still missing from world title conversations.

Why isn’t he getting a shot at the IBF Champion, Masamichi Yabuki of Japan? According to reports, Yabuki initially sought a unification bout with WBA Champion Erick Rosa. However, negotiations fell through due to timing issues. While logic would suggest Yabuki should now focus on his mandatory challenger—Araneta—he has instead expressed interest in moving up to challenge Mexican IBF Flyweight Champion Angel Ayala. A move that, while ambitious, seems to completely disregard Araneta’s rightful position.

Araneta (25-2-0), since losing to Sivenathi Nontshinga in 2021, has been on a six-fight knockout streak, firmly reestablishing himself as a top contender. Despite traveling to Japan to personally appeal for the fight, his pleas have seemingly fallen on deaf ears. If it’s all about business, perhaps it’s time for IPI/Omega Promotions to take matters into their own hands and host the championship fight in the Philippines. A homegrown event would not only showcase Araneta’s talent but also send a clear message: the Filipino warrior is ready. It may also be timely as Yabuki is going up and weight and the title may be vacant. 

Arvin John Paciones - IBF Junior Flyweight No. 2 (Technically No. 1)

Arvin John Paciones the WBA Asia Light-Flyweight Champion

The Prodigy

Arvin John Paciones, a 20-year-old undefeated boxing prodigy (10-0-0) and current WBA Asia Light-Flyweight Champion, has been making waves across Asia. Known for his power, skill, and in-ring maturity, Paciones has already defeated former world champion Rene Mark Cuarto. With a charisma that captivates fans and a skill set that rivals seasoned veterans, Paciones has all the makings of a future star.

His sights are set on Erick Rosa, but the WBA Champion’s recent focus on unification bouts has left Paciones in limbo. The young fighter is currently training at the Saigon Sports Club in Vietnam, preparing diligently under the watchful eye of his father and trainer.

While Paciones has time on his side, he deserves recognition now. His handlers have hinted at hosting a major event in Vietnam, an emerging boxing hub in Asia. Such an opportunity could catapult Paciones into the spotlight and further strengthen his case for a title shot. The question remains: when will the stars align for this young talent?

Regie Suganob - WBO Junior Flyweight No. 2

Regie Suganob the pride of Boxhol

The Pride of Bohol

When it comes to Bohol boxing, Regie Suganob is one of the names that immediately comes to mind. A product of PMI College, Suganob combines athletic prowess with intelligence and character, a rare trifecta in the sport. As someone who has personally watched him evolve since 2020, I can confidently say that Suganob is not only a world-class athlete but also an exceptional individual off the ring.

Ranked No. 1 by the WBO, Suganob should theoretically be next in line for a shot at the title currently held by Shochiki Iwata. However, a recent WBO resolution has elevated Puerto Rican fighter Rene Santiago (13-4-0) as the mandatory challenger instead. The reasoning? Santiago has faced three world-rated opponents over the last two years, whereas Suganob’s recent opponents were not ranked.

While rules and regulations must be followed, this decision feels like a slap in the face to Suganob and his supporters. Suganob’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and he’s proven himself capable of competing at the highest level. It’s time for the WBO to give this humble yet driven fighter the opportunity he so richly deserves.

See the full  WBO resolution here. 

Lessons from the Madness of Boxing

Boxing is a beautiful sport—but it’s also a business, often dictated by politics and marketability. While rankings and mandatory challengers should serve as a clear path to the title, the reality is often far more complicated. As a long-time boxing pundit, I’ve come to appreciate both the beauty and the chaos of the sport I love.

What can we do? We can voice our opinions, highlight injustices, and continue to celebrate fighters like Araneta, Paciones, and Suganob. These men have climbed the ladder and earned their place at the top. It’s time the world gave them the opportunities they deserve.