John Riel Casimero. —AFP
MANILA, Philippines — Three Filipinos, led by John Riel Casimero and Donnie Nietes, will headline the inaugural event of Probellum set on December 11 at Coca-Cola Stadium in Dubai.
Casimero stakes his WBO bantamweight belt against United Kingdom’s Paul Butler while Nietes aims to deliver an impressive showing against a soon-to-be-named opponent that would bring him closer to a world title shot in the event dubbed “Revolution.”
The other Filipino in Jayson Mama challenges the undefeated Sunny Edwards for IBF flyweight title.
“We are delighted to finally announce plans for this incredible event in Dubai next month,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “We made it clear from the offset that we have massive plans in store for Probellum, and this world title double-header shows just that.
“The two world title fights see John Riel Casimero face Paul Butler, while Sunny Edwards takes on Jayson Mama, and both of those bouts are set to be guaranteed excitement. With the likes of Donnie Nietes, Archie Sharp and Jono Carroll all competing too, fans will be treated to a night of non-stop action. We cannot wait for fight night and are proud to bring this historic event to the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.”
Edwards (16-0, 4KOs) and Mama (16-0, 9KOs) were initially scheduled to meet in September in the UK before an ankle injury suffered by the Briton postponed the clash.
The 31-year-old Casimero, a champion in three weight classes, makes his third title defense. He is coming off a split decision win over Guillermo Rigondeaux last August.
Nietes, a four-division champion who is still going strong at 39 years old, hopes to continue his winning ways. He put on a masterclass in a unanimous decision victory over Colombia’s Pablo Carillo last April.