Covid-19 knocks out ALA Boxing

THE famed ALA Boxing has announced that it is shutting down and releasing all of its fighters as it could no longer sustain operations because of the problems brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic and the closure of its long-time television partner ABS-CBN.

The decision by the boxing promotion and gym owned by the father and son tandem of Tony and Michael Aldeguer was announced in a statement that it released on its social media page.

For 35 years, ALA Boxing has been considered the country’s leading boxing promotion, credited for developing the likes of four-division world champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes and former IBF and IBO light-flyweight champion Milan Melindo.

The Cebu-based stable has also been home to world title challengers Jonas Sultan, Arthur Villanueva, and the legendary Edito Villamor, who went on to become the organization’s chief trainer.

“The pandemic and closure of our long time broadcast network partner ABS-CBN has affected the overall situation and future of the company,” read the statement.

"All our fighters will be released so they can look for greener pastures for their respective careers," it added. (JNP)