Filipino fighter Eman Bacosa after his triumph at the "Thrilla in Manila 2," October 29, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum. Paige Javier, ABS-CBN News
MANILA -- Eman Bacosa kicked off the 'Thrilla in Manila' 50th anniversary undercard with a rousing victory at the Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.
Bacosa beat fellow Filipino boxer Nico Salado via unanimous decision in their 6-round lightweight bout.
Two judges scored the bout at 58-55, while the third had it at 60-53.
The General Santos City native was aggressive from the start of the bout, even sending Salado to the canvas in the first and fourth rounds.
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In the last two rounds, the Boholano boxer was able to land punches on Bacosa, but failed to find his rhythm to get the win.
After the match, Bacosa told reporters he was grateful and happy to get the victory.
"Maraming salamat sa Panginoong Diyos natin dahil sa pagbigay niya sa akin ng proteksyon at paggabay niya sa akin sa tagumpay. Maraming salamat din sa mga sumusuporta," he said.
"Confident po ako na mananalo. Pero sabi kasi ng coach ko huwag masyadong gigil, huwag masyadong habol sa knockout dahil darating din po yun," Bacosa added.
When asked what's next for him, the 21-year-old said he leaves it to his team.
With the victory, Bacosa remains unbeaten at 7-0, while Salado drops to 2-2-1 win-loss draw record.