Jerwin Ancajas finally made his much awaited return to the country as the International Boxing Federation (IBF) super flyweight champion arrived early Tuesday, April 20, from the US.
Ancajas left Manila for Los Angeles in California last October 2020, but he only fought April 10 when he scored a unanimous decision win over Jonathan Rodriguez of Mexico.
The fight was held at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
Last Saturday on the sports show The Chasedown on Cignal TV’s One PH channel, Ancajas said there is nothing definite yet on his next fight, although he said he is ready to face anyone in his division.
“Wala pa sa ngayon, pero ready naman kahit na sino (Nothing at the moment, although I'm ready against anybody),” said Ancajas, who was in Las Vegas at that time of the interview.
The 29-year-old Ancajas arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 via Philippine Airlines.
A member of the Philippine Navy as Chief Petty Officer Ancajas reserved, Ancajas was welcomed by Navy officers.
The win against Rodriguez extended the title defense of Ancajas to nine, which improved his record to 33 wins with 22 knockouts, one loss and two draws. It was his first fight in more than a year.
Weeks before the title bout, MP Promotions chief Sean Gibbons has said that they are pursuing a fight with Srisaket Sor Rungvisai of Thailand, a former World Boxing Council super flyweight champion.
Rungvisai has won his last three fights for a 50-5-1 record, and according to Gibbons, they have already reached out to Rungvisai’s handers led by Eddie Hearn.
Other options for Ancajas are fights against WBC and WBA super flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada of Mexico, and Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez of Nicaragua.