By I. Inojales | 12:27 AM September 01, 2026
CEBU CITY — Filipino veteran Jake “El Bambino” Amparo suffered another heartbreaking setback on Japanese soil after dropping an eight-round unanimous decision to undefeated teenage prospect Ryuta Tokoro on Monday, August 31, 2026, at the historic Korakuen Hall.
The minimumweight bout, featured on a high-profile Dangan Promotions card, served as a crucial redemption opportunity for the 29-year-old Boholano warrior.
Amparo entered the ring determined to break a multi-fight losing streak in Japan, but ultimately struggled to overcome the continuous output and sharp execution of his younger opponent.
Both fighters successfully cleared the 105-pound weight limit the day prior, with Amparo tipping the scales at 104.6 lbs and Tokoro registering at 104.8 lbs.
From the opening bell, the 18-year-old Tokoro demonstrated composure beyond his years. While his previous professional outings both ended in explosive knockouts, the young Japanese prospect showcased an impressive tactical evolution. He relied on active footwork and high volume to outpoint the veteran Filipino over the eight-round distance. Amparo pressed forward with trademark resilience, but he was unable to land a fight-altering blow against the swift-moving Tokoro.
By the end of the eighth frame, all three judges at ringside scored the bout in favor of Tokoro.
With the victory, Tokoro keeps his perfect record intact, elevating his standing to 3-0 as a professional. Meanwhile, the tough-luck defeat adds another chapter to Amparo’s recent struggles abroad, forcing the PMI Bohol Boxing Stable standout back to the drawing board as he looks to rebuild his campaign in the minimumweight division.
“Still fought till the end. Gave everything. Thank you, all,” Amparo said.
