Suarez fights Avila for WBO Int'l title in California

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Charly “King’s Warrior” Suarez is set to return to the ring after more than a year on the sidelines, taking on Mexico’s Manuel Avila for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) International super featherweight title on July 18 (July 19, Manila time) at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino, California.

The bout, which headlines a ProBox TV fight card, serves as a crucial tune-up for Suarez as he prepares for a highly anticipated world title rematch with Emanuel Navarrete.

The 37-year-old Filipino has not fought since his controversial WBO super featherweight title clash against Navarrete in California in May 2025.

READ: Charly Suarez-Emanuel Navarrete rematch: WBO orders negotiations

Suarez initially lost the fight via technical decision after the bout was stopped because of a deep cut over Navarrete’s left eyebrow. However, the California State Athletic Commission later overturned the result to a no-contest after determining that the injury was caused by a legal punch rather than an accidental headbutt.

The ruling reignited calls for an immediate rematch, but Navarrete instead moved on to face Eduardo Nunez in a title unification bout despite the WBO’s directive to grant Suarez another shot at the championship.

READ: Charly Suarez camp decries planned Navarrete–Nunez unification bout

Suarez enters the fight with an unbeaten 18-0 record highlighted by 10 knockouts. He also remains one of the Philippines’ oldest active world title contenders, following the return of Manny Pacquiao to the sport last year.

Standing in his way is the experienced Avila, who owns a 26-2-1 record with nine knockouts. The Mexican veteran has won his last three fights since 2023, competing in both the United States and Mexico.

Avila is also a former International Boxing Association (IBA) world featherweight champion, giving Suarez another seasoned opponent before a potential second crack at Navarrete.

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