Pedro Taduran honored by Philippine Senate after successful IBF title defense

Reigning International Boxing Federation (IBF) mini-flyweight champion Pedro Taduran has established himself as one of the best boxers to come out of the Philippines—and one who has yet to reach his peak.

Taduran once again showed why he is one of the top fighters in his weight category worldwide, defeating Japanese star Ginjiro Shigeoka in their rematch via split decision on Saturday, May 24, at Intex Osaka in Japan.

This victory repeated the result of their title bout at the Shiga Daihatsu Arena in Otsu, Japan, on July 28, 2024, where Taduran stopped Shigeoka in the ninth round. Notably, Shigeoka entered the rematch with a revised game plan, but the Filipino star proved too much, relentlessly pressuring his Japanese opponent.

Inaprubahan ng Senado nitong Miyerkules, Hunyo 4, ang isang resolusyon na kumikilala ng pagkapanalo ng Pinoy boxer na si Pedro General Taduran Jr., matapos niyang madepensahan ang kanyang International Boxing Federation (IBF) minimum weight title laban kay Japanese contender… pic.twitter.com/lJDayyjuZF

— Pilipinas Today (@PilipinasToday_) June 5, 2025

Shigeoka was peppered with punches throughout the fight and, after absorbing significant damage, had to be stretchered out of the ring following the bout. The judges’ scorecards read 115–113, 113–115, and 118–110, awarding Taduran a split decision victory. Taduran later shared that he had no issues with the result.

The 27-year-old received a warm welcome upon his return to the Philippines, and his latest achievement was lauded by the Philippine Senate, which honored him on Wednesday, June 4, for his outstanding performance and resilience in the ring.

“Pedro Taduran’s victory has demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level, further establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in the boxing ring. His win not only showcased his skill and talent but also highlighted his potential to become a formidable force in the sport of boxing for many years to come,” the resolution stated.

The Albay native was accompanied at the Senate by his manager, Cucuy Elorde, notably the son of Filipino boxing legend Gabriel “Flash” Elorde.

Taduran’s record stands at 18 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw (13 KOs), and according to MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons, the Filipino fighter may now be in line to face Puerto Rico’s WBA and WBO mini-flyweight champion, Oscar Collazo, in a unification bout in the near future.

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