Recap of the TitleHolder Press Conference: Kenneth Llover vs. Keita Kurihara of Japan for the OPBF Title

On March 24, 2025, Japan’s veteran fighter Keita “Slugger” Kurihara (19-8-1, 16 KOs) will defend his Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) bantamweight title against the unbeaten Filipino rising star Kenneth “Lover Boy” Llover (13-0, 8 KOs) in a high-stakes bantamweight bout at Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.

The Emerging Filipino Phenom: Kenneth Llover

Llover, who is only 22 years old, has risen quickly through the boxing ranks, displaying not only an impeccable record but also a number of noteworthy titles:

WBC Asian Continental Bantamweight Champion: On November 5, 2023, at the General Trias Convention and Cultural Center in Cavite, Philippines, Llover defeated former world championship contender Edward Heno by unanimous decision to win this title.

WBO Asia Pacific Youth Bantamweight Champion: On August 24, 2024, in the BF Homes Gym in Paranaque City, he defeated Chengcheng Yang of China by unanimous decision to earn this title. ​

OPBF Interim Bantamweight Champion: On December 15, 2024, at the Sumiyoshi SportsCenter in Osaka, Japan, Llover defeated Tulio Dekanarudo of Japan via spectacular first-round TKO to win this title. ​

Llover has been compared to Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao because to his quick development and the quality of his opponents. Blackwater CEO and TitleHolder chairman Dioceldo Sy has high expectations for Llover, saying, “Kenneth possesses the speed, power, and determination reminiscent of a young Pacquiao.”

Keita Kurihara: Forged by Numerous Fights

Kurihara, 32, enters the ring with a strong knockout ratio and a wealth of experience. Standing at 5’7½” with an orthodox stance, he has been a dominant force in the bantamweight division:​

On January 26, 2024, at the NUSTAR Resort and Casino in Cebu City, Philippines, Kurihara defeated Froilan Saludar via knockout to reclaim the title of OPBF Bantamweight Champion.
Kurihara’s 84% knockout percentage highlights his ability to terminate fights decisively, and his aggressive style and unrelenting pressure make him a formidable opponent for anyone who steps into the ring with him.

A Conflict of Techniques

An intriguing contrast of approaches and tales is anticipated in this 12-round fight:

Raw Power vs. Technical Finesse: Kurihara’s conventional power punching and knockout skills will be put to the test against Llover’s quickness, accuracy, and southpaw stance.

“Japan won’t be easy—Kurihara may not have a perfect record, but he’s a bigger, relentless pressure fighter that Ken has never faced before. If Ken isn’t ready, it’s going to be a long night,” says Llover’s manager and former two-division world champion Gerry Peñalosa, acknowledging the challenge ahead.

TitleHolder.ph: Live-Streaming the Action

Fans can witness this electrifying matchup live on TitleHolder.ph, a platform dedicated to showcasing elite boxing talent and fostering a global community of boxing enthusiasts. Elmer Anuran, TitleHolder CEO, emphasizes the platform’s mission: “TitleHolder is built to be the go-to platform for future Filipino champions. Boxing has always been my passion, and this journey starts in the ring. Sending Kenneth Llover to Japan to face a battle-tested warrior like Kurihara is a challenge, but with the right preparation, we believe he has what it takes to win.”​

As the fight date approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a compelling contest of skill, strategy, and heart. Will Llover’s ascent continue, or will Kurihara’s experience and power halt the young contender’s momentum? Boxing enthusiasts worldwide will be tuning in to find out.​

For more information and to catch the fight live, visit TitleHolder.ph.