Shane Gentallan Captures IBF Asia Jr. Flyweight Title in Bohol Boxing Showdown

Shane Gentallan, a native of Maribojoc, Bohol, successfully claimed the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) Asia junior flyweight championship, elevating his career prospects after a unanimous decision victory over Arvin John Sampaga. The bout headlined the "Kumong Bol-anon 22" boxing event held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Ubujan Covered Court in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Judges scored the fight identically at 97-93 in favor of Gentallan, who is under the PMI Bohol boxing stable. This triumph opens pathways for him to possibly enter or rise within the IBF rankings in the near future.

Atty. Floriezyl Echavez Podot, head of PMI Bohol Boxing Promotions and Gentallan's manager, expressed pride in his fighter's progress, noting a marked improvement in his performance compared to earlier bouts. "Shane has shown significant growth; he no longer just moves around but throws effective punches. Although his accuracy still needs refinement, his overall boxing skills have improved tremendously," Podot said.

Despite this advancement, Podot acknowledged that Gentallan still lacks considerable punching power, which remains a key focus in his ongoing development. "Power is not quite there yet; it is evident he still needs to build it. Nevertheless, we have a clear program in place to enhance Shane's abilities," he added.

Gentallan himself recognized the strength of his opponent’s punches, explaining his strategic approach to avoid direct exchanges in the ring. "Sampaga’s punches are hard, so I avoided matching his aggression head-on. If I had, it would have been disadvantageous," Gentallan shared, emphasizing his readiness to face any challenger.

With this victory, Gentallan’s record improves to 13 wins, 1 loss, including 7 knockouts, while Sampaga falls to 8 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw with 3 knockouts.

In the event’s featured undercard, Gentallan’s stablemate Richard Laspoña rebounded after a sixth-round knockdown to defeat veteran Roberto Paradero by unanimous decision. Judges scored 95-94, 96-93, and 97-92, all in favor of Laspoña.

Other notable results included victories by Arlando Senoc (KO round 2), Datu Adam (KO round 2), Freshler Utera (KO round 2), and Jericho Acaylar (TKO round 2). Meanwhile, fights involving Jake Malinao versus Sunny Boy Sinaon and Jed Malinao versus Marvin Zamora ended in majority draws.

The event highlighted promising boxing talents from the region and signaled continued growth of the sport in Bohol.