“The Hunter” reigns: Dave Peñalosa wins WBF silver belt by beating Chinese foe

Cebuano boxer Dave “The Hunter” Peñalosa (20-1, 12 KOs) marked a triumphant return to championship contention, securing a unanimous decision victory over China’s Weiyi Jiang (2-2, 1 KO) to capture the World Boxing Federation (WBF) Silver lightweight title. 

The eight-round main event, headlining the “Fist of Fury VII” boxing card at the Tinago Sports Complex, underscored Peñalosa’s continued resurgence in the sport.

All three official judges, Romar Embodo, Michael Espinosa, and Rolando Mendoza, scored the competitive bout identically at 77-75 in favor of the Filipino. This win marks “The Hunter’s” third consecutive victory since ending a two-year hiatus from the ring earlier this year, further solidifying his comeback.

Fighting under Cebu’s Chao Sy Boxing Stable, Peñalosa started strong, demonstrating his technical prowess with sharp jabs and well-placed combinations that allowed him to establish control in the early rounds. 

Jiang, the taller and seemingly bigger fighter from Shenzhen, China, responded with consistent pressure and volume punching, attempting to capitalize on his physical advantages. However, Peñalosa’s disciplined defense and timely counters ensured he remained ahead on the scorecards.

As the fight progressed into the later rounds, both combatants showed signs of fatigue, but Peñalosa showcased his experience by intelligently conserving energy while still landing the cleaner and more effective punches. Jiang, despite his unwavering grit and heart, struggled to land any significant blows that truly troubled the local favorite.

A particularly impactful moment for Peñalosa came in the final 10 seconds of Round 5. “The Hunter” unleashed a crisp right uppercut, followed by a feint right and a devastating left hook that visibly rocked Jiang, nearly sending him to the canvas. Peñalosa, sensing a potential stoppage, pressed hard, but the resilient Chinese fighter managed to weather the storm and survive the round.

Dave “The Hunter” Peñalosa, headlines the ‘Fist of Fury’ fight card on June 28 at the Cebu City Sports Institute in Barangay Sawang Calero. #CDNDigital

READ STORY HERE: https://t.co/4rsVnA0xvI pic.twitter.com/uBcyd8NOWQ

— CDN Digital (@cebudailynews) June 11, 2025

In the championship rounds, a visibly winded Peñalosa relied on strategic clinching and accurate counters, one of which led to Jiang’s nose being bloodied. He skillfully managed his lead, occasionally even engaging in playful taunts towards Jiang’s corner, showcasing his confidence.

While pleased with the outcome, promoter Lorenzo “Chao” Sy offered a candid assessment of Peñalosa’s performance. “He fought very well. I was impressed with his performance, but he needs to improve his stamina. Nonetheless, he still has power in his punches,” said Sy.

Jiang, despite the loss, earned the respect of the appreciative hometown crowd for his valiant effort against a more seasoned and celebrated opponent.

In the co-main event, Chao Sy Boxing Stable’s Vicente Unidos (4-1, 3 KOs) suffered his first professional loss, falling to China’s Tuohatasen Sailibieke (6-0, 3 KOs) via a close split decision. 

The card also saw Jefre Jimenez (5-0, 2 KOs) capture the PBF light flyweight title with a unanimous decision win over Marlon Alejandro, and Jimuel Aranas (7-2, 4 KOs) secure a controversial fifth-round TKO victory over Anthony Gilbeula.

For Dave Peñalosa, this WBF Silver lightweight crown represents a significant milestone in his boxing journey, positioning him for potentially bigger challenges as he continues to chase the world championship dreams that run in his famed boxing family.

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