MANILA, Philippines – About two months ahead of this year's Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas Incorporated officially released both the men's and women's final volleyball rosters who will don the national colors and compete in Kuala Lumpur come August.

The official lineups for the Philippine volleyball teams, composed of the final 12 players as well as two reserves, were announced on Wednesday, June 14.

The women's national squad will be headlined by Mika Reyes, who was already assured of a slot due to her earlier captain ball assignment. The former De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spiker will be joined by 2015 flag bearer Alyssa Valdez, who was recently named Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference MVP.

Rachel Anne Daquis, who skippered the Rebisco-PSL Manila team in last month's Asian Women's Club Championships, was named a reserve alongside DLSU defensive specialist Dawn Macandili.

Check out the full list of the Philippine women's volleyball team members for the 2017 SEA Games below:

1. Denden Lazaro
2. Kim Fajardo
3. Rhea Dimaculangan
4. Mika Reyes
5. Maika Ortiz
6. Gen Casugod
7. Aby Maraño
8. Jovelyn Gonzaga
9. Aiza Pontillas
10. Jaja Santiago
11. Alyssa Valdez
12. Ces Molina

Reserves: Rachel Anne Daquis and Dawn Macandili

Men's national volleyball team

On the men's side, NCAA MVP and former College of Saint Benilde stalwart John Vic de Guzman is team captain for this year's regional meet.

Cebuano spiker Alden Dave Cabaron from Southwestern University also made the final cut, while his Cobras teammate John Eduard Carascal was named a reserve.

Here's the full list for the Philippine men's volleyball team:

1. Relan Taneo
2. Geuel Asia
3. Alnakran Abdilla
4. Mark Gil Alfafara
5. Bryan Bagunas
6. Alden Dave Cabaron
7. Reyson Fuentes
8. Bonjomar Castel
9. Herschel Ronald Ramos
10. Jack Kalingling
11. John Vic de Guzman
12. Greg Dolor

Reserves: John Eduard Carascal and Peter John Quiel

Both the men's and women's national volleyball teams look to snap a 12-year medal drought in the biennial contest, as both squads last won bronze during the 2005 SEA Games held in Manila. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine representatives to the FIBA 3x3 World Cup geared up for their last training session in Manila before competing in Nantes, France from June 17-21.

Kiefer Ravena, Jeron Teng, and Kobe Paras, together with JR Quiñahan, played in a scrimmage with other local and foreign players to prepare them for the last time before heading out of the country.

Paras arrived in Manila on Tuesday, June 13, after he finalized his transfer from Creighton University to Cal State Northridge. 

The 19-year old Paras shared his excitement in representing the Philippines at the upcoming tournament and being invited by coach Chot Reyes to be part of the Gilas Pilipinas pool.

“I think now is just the best time for me to play for the country and enjoy basketball,” Paras said. “I’m just making the most out of everything.”

Flying V Thunders Coach Eric Altamirano will not join the squad in France. His son, Anton, will mentor the trio in the quest of clinching a higher finish compared to the Philippines’ 9th seed last year.

Ravena and Teng are also optimistic about the upcoming tournament. The two are planning to make up for any lack of height and experience with their youth, "puso" or passion to play and determination to win. — Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – When he accepted the offer to play for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in late 2014, Kobe Paras became an even bigger star. Basketball fans in the Philippines have been following Paras' amateur basketball career, hoping he'll be the first Filipino to achieve his NBA dream.

Though his journey in the US NCAA wasn't easy as he later withdrew from UCLA, reportedly due to failure to meet academic requirements, Paras knew the challenge was just starting.

"In UCLA, it's all about politics, nobody really knows the right or wrong answer, but honestly I just really don't care," Paras told Rappler on Wednesday, June 14. "Everything happens for a reason. I'm a firm believer in that."

Paras, who once played for La Salle Green Hills in high school here in the Philippines, got into Creighton University in Nebraska last year. He spent a year there then transferred back to the West Coast, committing to play for California State University, Northridge.

"I got me into a position that I had to face adversity, and I'm still facing adversity," said Paras. "But at some point I just had to be a man about it and face adversity man-to-man."

The 19-year-old cager arrived in Manila on Tuesday, June 13, to prepare for his FIBA 3x3 World Cup stint with Jeron Teng and Kiefer Ravena. (WATCH: Kobe Paras in Manila for FIBA 3x3 practice with Ravena, Teng)

Paras, a two-time dunk champion of the FIBA 3x3 U18 World Cup, has made the country proud through various international competitions.

"I feel blessed a lot because I can represent my country in different ways," he said. "It's just the little things that count because there are so many who look up to me. I appreciate it."

'I'm really ambitious'

The son of former basketball player and actor Benjie Paras, he didn't dream of being a hoops star at first, as basketball was just a hobby.

When Paras got into La Salle, he fell in love with basketball. It was only then when he was in 7th grade that he decided to consider playing as a career.

"I thought I could make a living and I could do something great with basketball. It was also the time I was growing," explained Paras, who also enjoys table tennis.

Now, the opportunities keep on coming, and Paras is more than ready to become the best version of himself.

"I'm going with the flow. I'm joining Gilas, so I think it's a great time for me to just play for the country and play basketball as well," he said.

Paras added that while academics and basketball are his priorities, he's keen on pursuing his other interests, too.

"I'm really ambitious, I love fashion, I love cooking, I wanna open my own restaurant. I got inspired by my dad since he's an actor and basketball player. I can be whoever I want and do everything," Paras said.

"It's just trusting in yourself and passion for everything you do. The NBA is still the end goal."

And he only has one message to everyone telling him he can't do it.

"I don't care [about negative comments]. Life is so short. Why focus on the negative when you can make the most out of it (the experience)? It's their opinion and I'm just going to do what I think is right." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Marcio Lassiter knocked down the game-winning 3-pointer off the glass as the clock ran out to lift the San Miguel Beermen over the Star Hotshots, 111-110, in Game 3 of the 2017 PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals on Wednesday, June 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Lassiter's big go-ahead shot overturned a late two-point deficit and gave the Beermen a crucial 2-1 lead in the best-of-5 series, with Game 4 to be played on Friday, June 16.

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Coach Leo Austria described Lassiter's clutch bucket as "ala Steph Curry" given that Lassiter is a known huge Golden State Warriors fan.

"I'm happy for Marcio because we know Golden State won, and he's a big fan of Golden State so [now] he's taking a shot like Steph Curry," he said. The Warriors just clinched the NBA title over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, June 12 (Tuesday in Manila).

Lassiter finished with 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. Charles Rhodes scattered 36 points with 7 rebounds and 3 blocks, while Chris Ross put up 27 points, including a 14-point third quarter, to go with 8 boards and 8 dimes.

June Mar Fajardo added 18 points and 8 rebounds in another close victory for the Beermen.

Ricardo Ratliffe posted a game-high 44 points with 19 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 blocks in an impressive showing. He also poured 13 markers in the fourth.

But his would-be game-winner – a well-executed spin move in a one-on-one play at the post against Rhodes that broke the 108-all deadlock with 13 seconds left – was negated by Lassiter's even bigger basket.

Paul Lee contributed 21 markers and 5 assists, while Ian Sangalang and Jio Jalalon had 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Scores:

San Miguel (111): Rhodes 36, Ross 27, Fajardo 18, Lassiter 12, Cabagnot 9, Santos 6, Tubid 3, Heruela 0. 

Star (110): Ratliffe 44, Lee 21, Sangalang 11, Jalalon 10, Barroca 9, Maliksi 7, Simon 3, Ramos 3, Reavis 2, Melton 0. 

Quarter scores: 32-28, 56-52, 85-81, 111-110.

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Marcio Lassiter was smiling ear-to-ear and gushing over receiving what amounts to the highest honor in his book: being compared to his idol Stephen Curry.

Lassiter, a long-time Golden State Warriors fan, was swiftly compared to the two-time NBA MVP by coach Leo Austria when he hit the game-winning 3-pointer to lift the San Miguel Beermen past the Star Hotshots on Wednesday, June 14.

"I'm happy for Marcio because we know Golden State won, and he's a big fan of Golden State so [now] he's taking a shot like Steph Curry," he said after the thrilling 111-110 win in Game 3 of the 2017 PBA Commissioner's Cup semifinals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Lassiter modestly responded to the comparison: "Man, I'm far from that," a huge timid smile on his face, "but I guess it's always good to, you know, be compared to my idol.

"I've always looked up to him. He's always someone I looked up to so it's just kind of a cool moment to maybe be in that kind of – I'm not even gonna say I'm in his category, it's just my second one. I'm just happy we won the game."

Lassiter salvaged the victory with the difficult stepback 3-pointer off the glass with two seconds left after guard Chris Ross failed to convert on a drive and the possession was kept alive.

His shot negated Star import Ricardo Ratliffe's would-be winner 11 seconds earlier that broke the 108-all deadlock, which was an impressive shot in its own right as Ratliffe prevailed over Charles Rhodes in a one-on-one play at the post, finishing with a spin move.

"Maybe because we're watching a lot of Warriors lately. I don't know, the championship kind of kept on spilling for them," conceded Lassiter, who finished with 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.

"Honestly, it was just a great [shot]. I looked up and I saw we had about 6 seconds left so I knew I had some time to kind of get up for a shot. From there, I just wanna make sure that we can get a good shot off. I was just creating enough separation to get a good shot off."

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His game-winner occured a day after the Warriors reclaimed the NBA title from the Cleveland Cavaliers.

"I called game," he quipped, laughing. "Nah. Of course everyone heard it, I called bank yeah. I meant to do that.

"I love the Warrriors. They're gonna repeat again. You know, it was kinda cool to be in that moment," he added.

It was particularly special for Lassiter, too, that his shot counted this time around.

Over a year ago, in the same conference, he knocked down another off-the-glass 3-pointer, from the exact same spot – on the left wing, at the side of the court closest to the locker rooms – inside the Big Dome against Rain or Shine.

San Miguel was similarly down by two at that point, but he wasn't able to get it off in time for the final buzzer after scrambling first for the ball.

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"I don't know if you guys remember, last year I also had a buzzer-beater so you know, this is not like a fluke shot," he said.

"It was a Game 2 versus Rain or Shine, it was just like a split second like a 0.1 and I didn't get it off. I'm just kinda glad that this one went in and it just seems like God blessed me today."

Lassiter's post-shot celebration on Wednesday, however, was more subdued and mellowed down, which incidentally was akin to Klay Thompson.

"There was about two seconds left, so I didn't wanna [overreact]. Because you never know, Raffi's (Reavis) shot, it looked like it was gonna go in," he said of his tempered reaction, as opposed to Rhodes who was celebrating more to Curry's style as he ran back up jumping and striding with glee.

The Beermen now lead the best-of-5 series, 2-1, and will be looking to close it out in Game 4 on Friday, June 16. – Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, USA - Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather and mixed martial arts champion Conor McGregor - the biggest stars of their respective sports - announced Wednesday, June 14 (Thursday Manila time) they would fight on August 26 in Las Vegas.

The 40-year-old Mayweather announced the fight on his Instagram account with a graphic saying "IT'S OFFICIAL!!!" showing pictures of both fighters and listing Las Vegas as the location. McGregor sent out a tweet stating "THE FIGHT IS ON.” He lampooned Mayweather by posting a picture of his father Floyd Sr instead of the 5-division champ.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">IT&#39;S OFFICIAL!!! <a href="https://t.co/ND07Ixugs2">https://t.co/ND07Ixugs2</a> <a href="https://t.co/JpqFW5WbcB">pic.twitter.com/JpqFW5WbcB</a></p>&mdash; Floyd Mayweather (@FloydMayweather) <a href="https://twitter.com/FloydMayweather/status/875104754334023680">June 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
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MMA promoter Dana White said the bout would take place at the T-Mobile Arena and it would be a boxing match at 154-pounds with 10 ounce gloves.

"We have been in negotiations for a while," White told American sports broadcaster ESPN. "The negotiations went smooth. Floyd Mayweather surrounds himself with smart people and we got the deal done."

McGregor is the top pay-per-view draw in UFC while Mayweather had been the moneyspinner in some of boxing's biggest bouts, including matchups with Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao and US star Oscar De La Hoya. Mayweather earned $250 million for his fight against Pacquiao.

Neither Mayweather or McGregor have competed this year. Mayweather retired from pro boxing in 2015 after defeating Andre Berto, while McGregor (21-3) defeated Eddie Alvarez in November 2016.

White said the key to finalizing the fight was luring Mayweather out of his 23-month retirement.

"Everybody is happy with this deal," White said. "Nobody is bummed out."

The boxing format heavily favors the undefeated Mayweather (49-0, 26 KOs) who many consider to be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

McGregor, a 28-year-old Irishman, will be entering unknown territory as he has not stepped in a boxing ring since he was a teenager.

Unknown territory

Despite having little or no boxing experience, White insists his MMA client McGregor is confident of victory. McGregor is UFC's only simultaneous two-division champion.

"He is absolutely, 100 percent positive he will win this fight. When two men step into the ring anything can happen," White said of southpaw McGregor.

There will, of course, be no titles on the line, but it is an opportunity for both to cash in financially.

The fight is expected to be a pay-for-view blockbuster, as organizers are hoping it can challenge the 4.6 million pay-per-view buys for Mayweather-Pacquiao. 

Not everyone will be excited to see a Mayweather-McGregor exhibition match, especially considering that McGregor is a 25-1 underdog.

Boxing champion turned promoter De La Hoya said a fight between the two would be an embarrassment for the sport of boxing.

But the trash-talking Irishman has a dedicated fan base and knows how to sell tickets.

In his last fight, McGregor won the lightweight title from Alvarez in November 2015 in UFC's first Madison Square Garden card.

At one time promoters were looking at a September 16 date for Mayweather-McGregor but it is now taken by a Canelo Alvarez-Gennady Golovkin middleweight world championship fight at T-Mobile Arena. 

McGregor received a California boxing license last year but is still waiting for his Nevada boxing license application to be approved.– Rappler.com

STUTTGART, Germany – Roger Federer suffered a shock defeat to 39-year old Tommy Haas at the Stuttgart grass court tournament on Wednesday, June 14 in the Swiss great's first match after almost 3 months out of action.

Haas, a former world number two but now down at 302, won 2-6, 7-6 (10/8), 6-4 for just his 4th victory in 17 meetings against his close friend.

Federer, building up for an assault on an 8th Wimbledon title, hadn't played since March, skipping the entire clay court season.

It was just the second defeat of 2017 for the 35-year-old, who claimed the Australian Open for his 18th major in January.

"It's always special to play a close friend like Roger on grass, always lots of emotion," said Haas, who has undergone 9 surgeries in his career to mend a number of ailments.

"I saved a match point in the second set so was able to play more freely after that. I even shocked myself."

With a combined age of 74, it was the oldest match on the tour since 1982 as Haas, on a farewell to the sport in 2017, made his first quarter-final since Rome in 2014.

Federer also held match point in his only other defeat this year to Russia's Evgeny Donskoy in Dubai.

Haas is the oldest player to beat a top 5 opponent since Jimmy Connors, at 39 years and 5 months old, defeated Michael Stich in Memphis in 1992.

He is also the lowest-ranked player to beat Federer since number 407 Bjorn Phau at Washington in 1999.

Federer, who fired 23 aces in the contest, had match point at 8-7 in the second set tie-breaker but hit a backhand long. 

The German took his opportunity and converted his 4th set point when Federer double faulted for the first time in the match.

Haas controlled the decider, breaking for 3-1 before going on to take the victory on a second match point.

He will next face compatriot Mischa Zverev who beat qualifier and fellow German Yannick Hanfmann 7-6 (7/1), 6-2 in 83 minutes. 

Philipp Kohlschreiber, the runner-up last year, advanced by beating Steve Johnson of the United States 7-6 (7/3), 5-7, 7-6 (10/8) in two hours and 39 minutes. 

The 33-year-old Kohlschreiber, who lost to Austria's Dominic Thiem in the 2016 final, has won 5 of his 7 career titles in Germany. —Rappler.com

MANCHESTER, UK – Manchester United on Wednesday, June 14, completed the signing of Swedish international center-back Victor Lindelof from Benfica for a fee believed to be £31 million (35M euros, $39.6M), the English Premier League side announced.

"I am thrilled to be joining Manchester United," said the 22-year old after penning a 4-year deal.

"I have enjoyed my time at Benfica enormously and I have learned a lot there. But I'm looking forward to playing in the Premier League at Old Trafford and for Jose Mourinho."

Lindelof joined Benfica from home-town club Vasteras SK in 2012 and won 3 Portuguese league titles and two Portuguese Cups during his time in Lisbon.

Lindelof is the second centerback signed by United manager Mourinho following last year's capture of Ivory Coast international Eric Bailly from Villarreal.

Mourinho also has England pair Chris Smalling and Phil Jones at his disposal, along with Argentina international Marcos Rojo, while Dutch utility man Daley Blind has slotted into central defence on occasion.

"Victor is a very talented young player, who has a great future ahead of him at United," said Mourinho on Wednesday.

"Our season last year showed us that we need options and quality to add depth to the squad and Victor is the first to join us this summer. I know that our fantastic group of players will welcome him as one of us."

Lindelof is United's first new signing of the summer as they build up towards a Champions League campaign next season.

He told MUTV that he was ready to fight for his place in the team.

"Of course there are some great players here in my position," said the Swede. "I'm here to do my best to try to help the team as much as I can and it's always good to have other good players around you. When you have that, you get better as well."

"I think every move means you have to adapt to a new environment but I feel comfortable in myself. I trust myself and it's going to be tough but I'm looking forward to it."

"I always had a dream of coming here to play in the Premier League so, for me, it's a dream come true."

United are also in the market for a striker, having included Zlatan Ibrahimovic, currently sidelined by a serious knee injury, on their list of players to be released.

Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata is one name linked with a move to Old Trafford.

His agent said earlier this week that United had lodged a "very important offer" with the Spanish giants to try to bring him to Manchester. —Rappler.com

CEBU CITY, Philippines – The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) has reinstated Olympian marathoner Mary Joy Tabal for the 29th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

According to a statement sent by PATAFA, it is granting the reinstatement request of Tabal after she allegedly agreed in an email dated June 14 to the several conditions they set in an email. 

(READ: PATAFA sets conditions for Tabal's reinstatement)

The PATAFA statement said Tabal has agreed to several conditions starting with  committing to comply with all of PATAFA's rules and regulations as well as agreeing to having Rene Herrera as her official national coach. 

Herrera is a 5-time SEA Games gold medalist in 3000-m steeplechase. He placed 41st in the 5000-m in the 2012 London Summer Olympics. He also placed 8th in the Inchon International Half Marathon and 73rd in the World Half Marathon Championships. Tabal recently posted a new Philippine record of 1:16:28 in the ScotiaBank Ottawa Half Marathon in Canada. 

The PATAFA statement, however, stated that Tabal is allowed to bring her own technical staff to the SEA Games competition. 

Tabal is currently in Italy, where she is continuing her training set by long-time coach John Philip Duenas, Akio Usami, and Giuseppe Giambrone, who is heading the Tuscany training camp, which she started last April. 

Tabal has credited her training in Italy as one of the factors which helped her bring home the crown and record in Canada.

Upon her arrival on August 9, PATAFA further stated that Tabal will immediately report to the PATAFA office and regularly thereafter. 

PATAFA also said that Tabal made a statement that she never spoke negatively against the athletics governing body and has declared that she is withdrawing her February 17, 2017 letter to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

PATAFA also said that Tabal will continue with her "training program designed by her present technical staff and will submit the same to PATAFA and PSC, through PATAFA, in accordance with long-standing rules."

In the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore, Tabal clinched a silver medal in her first time competing at the biennial meet. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The Pocari Sweat Lady Warriors hacked out a 4-set victory against top seed Bali Pure Water Defenders, 20-25, 25-17, 25-17, 25-19 to claim the 2017 Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference women’s division title on Thursday, June 15 at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan. 

Despite a solid defensive stand by the Lady Warriors, the Water Defenders overcame a tightly contested opening set as they capitalized on their foes’ 9 unforced errors to run away with an early 25-20 victory. 

The number 3 seed Pocari Sweat was able to to control miscues come the second set, and listed a 16-12 offensive advantage to turn back Bali Pure and level the match at one set apiece. 

Krystal Rivers anchored the Lady Warriors and topscored with 27 points off 22 attacks, 4 blocks, and a service ace. 

Alongside Rivers, Gyzelle Sy was also named Best Player of the Game after pitching in 12 excellent digs as well as 24 excellent sets. 

The Lady Warriors bounced back from a tough Game 2 defeat, where they rallied to push the match to a decider but eventually dropped the 5th set to the Water Defenders. 

Meanwhile, the Creamline Cool Smashers earlier bagged a bronze finish after thumping the Power Smashers in 4 sets, 25-20, 11-25, 25-20, 25-19 also on Tuesday.

In the men’s division, the Cignal HD spikers took home the championship trophy following a hard-earned Finals sweep against the Philippine Air Force. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED)－Top seed Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings avoided a semifinals sweep as they pounded the TNT KaTropa, 125-101, in Game 3 of the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals on Thursday, June 15 at the Smart-Araneta Coliseum.

With their backs against the wall, the Gin Kings erupted for an early 61-47 halftime cushion and listed a notable advantage in the assists department, 34-20.

Justin Brownlee pitched in a game-high 31 points to go with 11 boards, while Scottie Thompson added 17 markers, 5 rebounds, and 4 dimes for Ginebra.

Japeth Aguilar missed only two shot attempts and finished with 15 points and 4 boards, while Sol Mercado and Joe Devance had 12 and 10, respectively.

“There’s the burden of being the number one seed, the pressure to go along with the number one seed,” said Ginebra head coach Tim cone after his team’s huge win.

“I think today we just kind of had an underdog mentality, and that helped us. Hopefully that will carry on [to Game 4].”

TNT sorely missed the dominant presence of import Joshua Smith in the paint, as he only punched in 9 minutes on the court. The topscoring reinforcement grabbed 7 rebounds and finished with 4 points in the losing effort of the KaTropa, who turned the ball over 17 times throughout the match.

The KaTropa trailed and failed to find an answer for the Gin Kings’ offensive onslaught as they shot 45% from the field.

Jayson Castro, who logged in only 15 minutes, delivered 7 points and 3 assists, while RR Pogoy also had a quiet night of 4 markers on 2-of-7 shooting.

RR Garcia meanwhile led all TNT scorers with 16 markers coupled with 3 assists, while Mo Tautuaa had 15 points and 5 boards.

Game 4 of this best-of-5 semis series is on Saturday, June 17 at the Cuneta Astrodome.

Scores:

GINEBRA (125)- Brownlee 31, Thompson 17, Aguilar 15, Mercado 12, Devance 10, Ellis 9, Cruz 9, Tenorio 8, Mariano 5, Ferrer 5, Taha 2, Jamito 2, Helterbrand 0, Caguioa 0

TNT (101)- Garcia 16, Tautuaa 15, Carey 11, Reyes 9, Rosario 8, Castro 7, Rosales 7, Nuyles 6, Hernandez 6, Pogoy 4, Smith 4, De Ocampo 3, Semerad 3, Williams 2, Golla 0, Tamsi 0

Quarter scores: 34-28, 61-47, 96-74, 125-101

－Rappler.com

LOS ANGELES, USA - Russian boxer Sergey Kovalev made his point then stormed off the podium as he butted heads Thursday, June 15 with American champion Andre Ward in the final news conference before their world title rematch. 

There appears to be genuine dislike between the undefeated Ward and challenger Kovalev, who is seeking to regain his 3 world titles when he faces Ward Saturday night in the US boxing capital of Las Vegas.

On Thursday, the 34-year-old Kovalev (30-1-1, 26 KOs) amped up US-Russian boxing tensions by taunting Ward and then walking off the stage.

"I already said enough and I will prove it June 17. And you get prepared," Kovalev said, turning and pointing his finger directly at Ward before leaving by the back door.

Ward, who was sitting in his assigned seat on the podium, immediately shot back, "Turn my microphone on. Don't you point your finger at me." 

The Russian sent Ward to the canvas in their first fight in November but failed to close the deal and is now hoping to prove his claim that he was robbed of a victory. 

Ward, 33, won the controversial first fight by the narrowest of margins, 114-113, on all three judges' scorecards, which earned him the IBF, WBA and WBO belts.

In the build-up to Saturday's contest, Kovalev mocked Ward's "Son of God" nickname by referring to him as the "Son of Judges."

(READ: Kovalev cries foul after Ward loss: 'it's the wrong decision')

Three of the 4 major belts will be at stake as the pair meet for the second time in just seven months in a light heavyweight world title fight at the Mandalay Bay hotel and casino.

If Kovalev learned anything from that first bout, it is that he can't take any rounds off or rely on the judges' decision.

Prior to his November defeat, Kovalev had been on a more than five-year winning streak dating back to a draw in August 2011 with Grover Young.

Like Kovalev, Ward has beaten his share of elite boxers.

Ward (31-0, 15 KOs) is trying to prove he didn't get a gift decision in the first fight. After suffering a knockdown, he was able to regroup and change the momentum of the fight in the sixth round.

Ward prides himself on being calm cool and collected, but he couldn't help but show emotion on Thursday.

"I am not going to be distracted by the talk," he said as he took his turn at the podium. "I am expecting his best, but you are going to see a different Andre Ward. You are going to see another guy in there Saturday night. That is my favorite time. Show-and-tell time." – Rappler.com

ERIN, USA - A blimp hovering above the US Open caught fire and crashed, leaving its pilot with burns after it plummeted to earth before horrified players and spectators on Thursday, June 15.

Golf stars and fans at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin looked on in disbelief as the aircraft could be seen falling from the sky near the venue.

Airsign, the company managing the blimp said the pilot was being treated for injuries "but is expected to be ok." 

Local law enforcement said the pilot suffered burns in the crash.

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Airsign officials later refuted eyewitness accounts suggesting the pilot had parachuted from the aircraft, saying he remained on board throughout the ordeal. 

The drama was witnessed by several players as they progressed through the opening round of their tournament.

"I was teeing off and I looked up and saw it on fire, and I felt sick to my stomach," American Jamie Lovemark said. "I had the shakes. I felt terrible for the people inside. I didn't know what was going on. It was a horrible sight.

"I hope the guys got out okay. It was a horrific scene. I've never seen a plane crash, blimp crash, anything like that. It was pretty awful."

World number 55 Charley Hoffman also witnessed the incident. 

"I was sitting on the seventh tee and my caddie goes, 'Look at that thing, just blew up.' And it was going down through the air," Hoffman said.

"I didn't see it explode, but it definitely just happened when he tapped me on the shoulder. So I saw it fluttering down through the sky."

Brandt Snedeker said he had been alerted to the accident by his caddie.

"He said 'The blimp is not looking good.' I guess it was nose down. I saw a puff of black smoke. I didn't know it was the blimp," Snedeker said.

The incident happened at around 11.55am with the opening round of the season's second major under way at Erin Hills.

A statement from the US Golf Association confirming details of the crash said the blimp was not affiliated with the tournament or the US Open broadcast.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the pilot at this time." – Rappler.com

SINGAPORE - Leading mixed martial arts promoter UFC is planning to hold 3-4 events a year in Asia and is scouring the region for fighters, a senior executive told AFP.

Las Vegas-based UFC, which made stars of Conor McGregor and Ronda Rousey, is making a concerted bid to establish a presence in the region, starting with an event in Singapore on Saturday.

UFC will also hold an event in Tokyo in September and is planning a third Asian fight night in November, said Joe Carr, head of international and content.

But he said unearthing home-grown fighters was "the most important piece of our business".

"You look around the world, any market we've had tremendous amounts of success is because we've had local talent emerge," Carr said.

"We've been fortunate that we've been successful in Korea, Japan and some of the North Asian countries, we've been successful there.

"Our challenge is more in Southeast Asia in finding talent from this market."

Li Jingliang is the sole Chinese fighter on Saturday's card - compatriot Wang Guan pulled out due to an injury - which is topped by Holly Holm's fight against Bethe Correia of Brazil.

Carr said it was harder to find top-quality fighters in Southeast Asia, although the Philippines' Rolando Dy is also on the Singapore card.

"The challenge in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore is that there's not any fighters that can compete at the highest levels of the UFC," he said.

"But we're actively searching for those guys and when we find promising young prospects, we focus on bringing them to the US and fighter development programme and have them train at the best gyms have them hone their skills. 

"Particularly if we feel we're going to make (Singapore) an annual event, we're gonna be very focused on finding more talent in this region." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The San Beda Manila Red Lions claimed another victim in their unbeaten run through the Flying V Filoil Preseason Cup, defeating Ateneo de Manila University in an 82-67 win, Friday, June 16 at the Flying V Center in San Juan.

The Mendiola-based squad started strong and finished stronger as they dominated all throughout the game, rallying an early 10-3 run in the first quarter and posting a 14-point lead in the second period.

San Beda flawlessly sealed the eliminations round with an 8-0 card while Ateneo suffered their 4th loss in the tournament.

Earlier, De La Salle University Green Archers manhandled the Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 93-77, behind Ben Mbala's impressive double-double of 45 points, 17 rebounds to go with 3 blocks.

After a heartbreaking loss to UAAP rival Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, the dominant big man Mbala unleashed his inner beast mode and was unstoppable as he dominated the paint and ended with 16 shots made from his 20 attempts in the field.

La Salle sealed the elims with a 5-3 record while Letran bids good bye to the tourney with only a win against 7 losses. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) - The San Miguel Beermen outlasted a late rally and hacked out a 109-102 victory against the Star Hotshots to secure a finals appearance in the 2017 PBA Commissioner’s Cup on Friday, June 16 at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

Alex Cabagnot led the charge for the Beermen as he finished with a team-high 26 points as well as 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Chris Ross had 24 points on 8-of-13 shooting to go with 10 assists and 5 steals, while June Mar Fajardo dished out 22 points and 8 rebounds. 

Charles Rhodes added 21 points and 10 boards for the the finals-bound Beermen. 

“In our 4 games [against Star], very close, makikita mo naman eh (you’ll see it),” said head coach Leo Austria after the game. “They will force you to bring the best in you.” 

“We’re happy to be in the finals again. But I have to give credit to the coaching staff of Star dahil talagang piniga nila kami (they pushed us to our limits). 

The Hotshots had recurring problems in ball possession and handed their foes 30 points off turnovers alone. Their miscues only seemed to fuel the offensive fire for the Beermen, who buried 10 attempts from beyond the arc. 

Down by as much as 17 in the second half, the Hotshots rallied to cut the deficit to 3 with less than a minute left on the clock. They were, however, on penalty and sent Marcio Lassiter on the stripe to make it a two-possession game. 

Ricardo Ratliffe again topscored for the Star with another double-double of 36 points and 17 rebounds, while Allein Maliksi pitched in 16 points on 7-of-11 shooting to go with 4 boards off the bench.

The Beermen will face the winner of the Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings-TNT KaTropa semis series, where the KaTropa currently holds a 2-1 lead.

Scores: 

SMB (109) - Cabagnot 26, Ross 24, Fajardo 22, Rhodes 21, Lassiter 8, Santos 4, Heruela 3, Espinas 1, Tubid 0

STAR (102)- Ratliffe 36, Maliksi 16, Barroca 13, Sangalang 11, Ramos 9, Lee 8, Jalalon 6, Simon 3, Melton 0, Reavis 0 

Quarter scores: 29-27, 52-49, 83-69, 109-102. – Rappler.com

Editor's Note: In an earlier version of this story, there was a mix-up in the triathlon lineup, and the name of shooter Hagen Alexander Topacio. These have been corrected.

MANILA, Philippines – Chef de mission Cynthia Carrion released the partial official list of delegates for the 29th Southeast Asian Games from August 19 to 30 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

According to Carrion, the Philippine Sports Comission and Philippine Olympic Committee are just waiting for 4 sports to submit their rosters. Aquatics, sailing, water ski and wakeboarding are expected to submit their lineups on or before June 20 while basketball is set to pass their rosters on June 27.

"They (other countries) are finding reasons to disqualify us so I told them (basketball team) to not delay the list of athletes since the Philippines is considered as a top contender," said Carrion.

Carrion also confirmed taekwondo bet Kirstie Elaine Alora to be the country's flag-bearer.

"(Kobe) Paras and Paeng (Nepomuceno) were considered to be the flag-bearer but Paras is based in the US and Paeng has done it numerous times so we went with Kirstie (Alora)," explained Carrion.

Here are the official rosters for the 29th SEA Games per sport:

MUAY

Jay Harold Gregorio, Jonathan Polosan, Khen Marques, Phillip Delarmino, Ryan Jakiri

PENCAK SILAT

Alfau Jan Abad, Almohaidib Abad, Juryll Del Rosario, Juanillio Ballesta II, Solomon Eluna, Raymond Bueno, Jhon Paul Acat, Jefferson They Loon, Rick-Rod Ortega, Jaciren Abad, Dines Dumaan, Cherry May Regalado, Princesslyn Enopia, Mutmainna Asmad

PENTAQUE

Men's team: Anfulfo Masumbol, Aristides Samia, Jhasfer Camingal, Angelo Sangalang

Women's team: Mary Grace Munar, Gema Casem

SHOOTING

Men's team: Eric Ang, Hagen Alexander Topacio, Jayson Valdez, Joaquin Miguel Ancheta, Paul Brian Rosario

Women's team: Amparo Teresa Acuna, Elvie Baldivino, Shanin Lyn Gonzales

SEPAK TAKRAW

Men's team: Alvin Pangan, Emmanuel Escote, Jason Huerte, Joeart Jumawan, John Carlo Lee, John Jeffrey Morcillos, John John Bobier, Mark Joseph Gonzales, Ortouste Rheyjey Cabogoy, Regie Renzan Pabriga, Rhemwil Catana, Ronsited Gabayeron

Women's team: Kristel Carloman, Lhaina Mangubat, Mary Ann Lopez, Rizzalyn Amolacion, Jean Marie Sucalit

TABLE TENNIS

Men's team: Japheth Adasa, Richard Gonzales, Jacolo Ryan Rodney Abel, Jann Mari Nayre, Isaias Seronio

Women's team: Sendrina Balatbat, Emy Rose Dael, Rose Jean Fadol, Jamaica Dianne Go Sy

SQUASH

Men's team: David William Pelino, Juan Rafael Yam, Reymark Begornia, Robert Andrew Garcia

Women's team: Isabelle Gotuaco, Jemyca Aribado, Joan Arebado, Yvonne Alyssa Dalida

TAEKWONDO

Men's team: Arven Alcantara, Dustin Jacob Mella, Francis Aaron Agojo, Morrison Samuel Thomas Harper, Raphael Enrico Mella, Rodolfo Reyes Jr, Rhezie Canama

Women's team: Jocel Lyn Ninobla, Juvenille Faye Crisostomo, Kirstie Elaine Alora, Pauline Louise Lopez, Rinna Babanto

TRIATHLON

Men's team: John Leerams Chicano, Nikko Bryan Huelgas

Women's team: Ma Claire Adorna,  Marion Kim Mangrobang

TENNIS

Men's team: Francis Casey Alcantara, Ruben Gonzales, Treat Conrad Huey, Jeson Patrombon, Denis Dy, Khim Iglupas

Women's team: Katharina Lenhert, Anna Patrimonio, Czarina Arevalo, Chris Cuarto 

WUSHU

Men's team: Daniel Parantac, Norlence Catolico, Thornton Quienes Lou Saya

Women's team: Agatha Wong, Kimberly Machua

VOLLEYBALL

Men's team: Alnakran Abdilla, Asia Genuel Dela Cruz, Bonjomar Castel, Bryan Berroyo Bagunas, Alden, Dave Gabunada, Dolor Gregorio Budollo, Herschel Ronald Ramos, Jack Kalingking, John Vic de Guzman, Mark Gil Alfafara, Reyson Fuentes, Taneo Relan Laranang

Women's team: Abigail Marano, Aiza Pontillas, Alyja Daphne Santiago, Alyssa Valdez, Dennise Lazaro, Frances Xinia Molina, Geneveve Casugod, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Kim Fajardo, Maika Ortiz, Mika Aereen Reyes, Rhea Dimaculangan

WEIGHLIFTING

Colonia Nestor Landag, Aldante Pelayo

BOWLING (TENPIN)

Men's team: Anton Jose Alcazaren, John Paule Macatula, Jo-Mar Roland Jumapao, Kenneth Chua, Kevin Oliver Cu, Mervin Matheiu Tan

Women's team: Dan Coronacion, Krizziah Lyn Tabora, Maria Liza Del Rosario, Maria Lourdes Arles, Marian Lara Posadas, Marie Alexis Sy

RUGBY 7S

Men's team: Christophe Hitch, Justin Thomas Coveney, David Ramsden, Harrison Blake, Vincent Francis Young, Jason Lynch, Harry Morros, Edlen Hernandez, Gareth Holgate, Jonel Madrona, Joshua Aragon, Jay-VolNey Rouse

Women's team: Dixie Yu, Sylvia Tudoc, Angella San Juan, Madille Salinas, Rassiel Sales, Aiumi Ono, Camilla Maslo, Helena Indigne, Kaya Honoras, Gelanie Gamba, Bird Louise

JUDO

Kohei Kohagura, Keisei Nakano, Shugen Nakano, Sydney Sy, Kiyomi Watanabe, Mariya Takahashi, Rolan Llamas, Kodo Nakano, Yuta Yazaki

KARATE-DO

James Orencio, Jayson Ramil Macaalay, Rexor Tacay, John Michael Vincent Bai, Afif Sharief, Carmelo Patricio, Engene Stoner Dagohoy, Erica Celine Samonte, Junna Tsukii, Kimvery Madrona, Mae Soriano, Miyuki Tacay

NETBALL

Ana Theresa Codinera, Ana Thea Cenarosa, Katryna Domino, Diana Doqueza, Leanne Espina, Anjelica Estacion, Meilyn Ip, Eunice Japone, Ghia Lozada, Cathlyn Seno, Eliezza Ventura, Teresa Aquino

LAWN BOWLS

Men's team: Christopher Dagpin, Curte Robert Guarin, Elmer Abatayo, Emmanuel Portacio, Hommer Mercado, Leoncio Carreon Jr, Marcelito Pancho, Angelo Morales, Rodel Labayo, Ronald Lising

Women's team: Ainie Knight, Bruce Asuncion, Hazel Jagonoy, Marisa Baronda, Nancy Toyco, Nenita Tabiano, Rosita Bradborn, Sharon Hauters, Vilma Greenlees, Margie Ortilano

GYMNASTICS

Adrian Apuyan, Reynald Capellan, Fortunato Abad IV, Albert Lopez, Jan Gwynn Timbang, John Matthew Vergara, Kaitlin De Guzman, Katrina Evangelista, Cristina Onofre, Mariana Josefa Hermoso, Rachelle Arellano, AJ Melgar, Jean Caluscusin, Katrina Loretizo, Marian Nnicolle Medina, Mary Andrea Cantero, Ariella Orella, Reyna Jean Cornel, Shieldannah Sabio

FENCING

Men's team: Brennan Wayne Louie, Donnie Arth Navarro, Eric Brando II, Nathaniel Perez, Noelito Jose Jr, Reynaldo Perez Jr

Women's team: Clichelleyn Del Rosario, Hanniel Abel, Harlene Raguin, Jylyn Nicanor, Maxine Isabel Esteban, Samantha Kyle Catantan

GOLF

Men's team: Carl Jano Corpus, Yolo Timothy Magcalayo, Luigi Paolo Wong, Ruperto Zaragosa III

Women's team: Lois Kaye Go, Harmie Nicole Constanti, Yuka Saso

BADMINTON

Men's team: Carlos Antonie Capanna, Alvin Morada, Peter Gabriel Magnaye, Philip Joper Escueta

Women's team: Alyssa Leonardo, Sarah Joy Barredo

EQU-DRESSAGE

Syquia Colin John Collins, Chiara Sophia Amor, Joker Arroyo, Maria Angelica Ayala, Marie Antonette Leviste, Amy Janette Graham, Fabio Lopes Da Abadia, Frank Freund, Hannan Jennifer Yvonne, John Fredrik Yvonne, John Fredrik Jansson, Laurio Benjie Cabungal, Leoncio De Leon, Shamus Joseph Mckeever, Saturnino Cabungcal, Valentin Daniel Oliver Marcotte

CYCLING

Men's team: Christopher John Caluag, Mervin Corpuz, Daniel Patrick Caluag, Dominic Perez, George Oconer, Jerry Aquino Jr., John Renee Mier, Kristian Emmanuel Reyes, Marcelo Felipe, Mark John Lexer Galedo, Ronald Oranza, Rustom Lim

Women's team: Marella Vania Salamat, Sienna Elaine Fines

ARCHERY

Men's team: Earl Benjamin Yap, Florante Matan, Joseph Vicencio, Luis Gabriel Moreno, Mark Javier, Niron Brylle Concepcion, Paul Marton Dela Cruz, Rogelio Miguel Tremedal

Women's team: Jennifer Chan, Abigail Tindugan, Amaya Amparo Cojuangco, Kareel Meer Hongitan, Kim Concepcion, Mary Queen Ybanez, Nicole Marie Tagle, Pia Elizabeth Angela Bidaure

BILLIARDS

Men's team: Basil Al-shajjar, Alvin Barbero, Carlo Biado, Johann Cha, Efren Reyes, Francisco Dela Cruz, Jefrey Roda, Warren Kiamco, Dennis Orcolla

Women's team: Chezka Centeno, Rubilen Amit

BADMINTON

Men's team: Carlos Antonie Cayanan, Alvin Morada, Peter Magyane, Philip Escueta

Women's team: Alyssa Leonardo, Sarah Joy Barredo

BOXING

Carlo Paalam, Charly Suarez, Eumir Marcial, Ian Clark Bautista, Mario Fernandez, John Nobel Tupas Marvin

ICE HOCKEY

Benjamin Jorge Imperial, Carl Michael Montano, Daniel Pastrama, Francois Emmanuel Gautier, Hector Pierre Navasero, Seppi Gianpetro, Jan Aro Regencia, John Steve Fuglister, Jon David Samson, Jorell Crisostomo, Jose Inigo Anton Cadiz, Joshua Carino, Julius Frederick Santiago, Lenard Rigel Lancero II, Miguel Alfonso Relampagos, Miguel Serrano, Paolo Spafford, Patrick Russell Syquiatco, Paul Gabriel Sanchez, Tenedoro Carlo Martin Sison

INDOOR HOCKEY

Men’s team: Oliver Buarao, Sherwinson Casapao, Jhunar Rei Forio, Christian Lowell Galicia, Jonas Kenneth Gonzales, John-El Guinto, Marvin Lianza, Juncent CJ Marasigan, Celfin Naz, Reiger Clifford Pecho, Nevie John Tambot, Arvin Villagomez

Women’s team: Dyran Joy Calayo, Maria Paulyn Castillo, Kyle Delos Santos, Paula Jean Dumaplin, Jevilyn Obasa, Denizelle Ann Rasing, Klaryn Retodo, Kristine Elaine Santos, Yarra Austine Sebastian, Edelyn Pantano Suarez

 ATHLETICS

Men's team: Agravante Jeson Oyco (marathon), Anfernee opena (100m, 4x100m relay), Aries Toledo (4x400m Relay, Decathlon), Arniel Ferrera (Hammer Throw), Archand Christian Dimaano Bagsit (200m, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay), Immuel Candole Camino (3000m steeplechase), Christopher Ulboc Jr (3000m steeplechase), Clinton Kingsley Bautista (110 hurdle), Edgardo Alejan Jr (400m, 4x400m relay), Elbren Neri (1500m), Eric Shauwn Cray (100m, 400m hurdle, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay), Ernest John Obiena (pole vault), Janry Ubas (long jump), Kenny Gonzales (javelin throw), Lasangue Manuel Jr. Tacleo (high jump), Marco Vilog (800m), Mark Harry Diones (4x100m relay, triple jump), Medina Francis Tiaga (400m hurdle), Melvin Calano (javelin throw), Mervin Guarte (800m, 1500), Michael Carlo Del Prado (4x400m relay), Patrick Unso (110m hurdle, 4x100m relay), Ronne Malipay (triple jump), Tyler Christian Ruiz (long jump), Trenten Anthony Anthony Beram (200m, 400m, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay)

Women’s team: Kayla Richardson (100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay), Eloiza Luzon (4x100m, 4x400m relay, Emily Jean Obiena (pole vault), Evalyn Palabrica (javelin throw), Katherine Khay Santos (4x100m, 4x400m, long jump), Marestella Torres-Sunang (long jump), Narcisa Atienza (heptathlon), Kyla Richardson (4x100m relay, 4x400m relay), Riezel Buenaventura (pole vault), Rosie Villarito (javelin throw), Reah Joy Pitogo Sumalpong (discus throw), Mary Joy Tabal (marathon), Rose Nelson Zion (100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay)

 FOOTBALL

Men’s team: Christian Lapas, Daniel Bernan Gadia, Dimitri Lionel Limbo, Dylan Alain Lucienne De Bruycker, Jaime Vicenzo Cheng, Jordan Blair Daydora Jarvis, Javier Augustine Gayoso, Jeremiah Raphael Rocha, Julian Mariano Clarino, Junell Mark Bautista, Jou Ichi Melgira, Nathanael Ace Villanueva, Nimrod Balabat, Ray Joseph Joyel, Rey Franco Miguel De La Torre, Reymart Cubon, Roberto Corsame Jr, Richard Talaroc Jr, Valentino Calvo, Yoshiharu Koizumi

Women’s team: Mea Dematao Bernal, Anicka Chabeli Arrieta Castaneda, Sara Isobel Arrieta Castaneda, Maeva Bella Abao Collatos, Alisha Clare Mendoza Del Campo, Kyrhen Angela Bretana Dimaandal, Alesa Nazareno Dolino, Patric Mae San Pedro Impelido, Kayla Jan Aragones Inquig, Hali Moriah Candido Long, Eva Silva Madarang, Isabela Francesca Medallon Mahoney, Regine Metillo, Irish Oliveros Navaja, Inna Kristianne Beza Palacios, Kathleen Camille Muldong Rodriguez, Faith Sean Ruetas, Jesse Anne Shugg, Jovelle Cordero Sudaria, Patricia Tomanon – Rappler.com

SEOUL, South Korea - A fired South Korean football club scout at the center of a bribery scandal has been found hanged in an apparent suicide, police said Saturday, June 17.

Cha Jong-Bok, former scout for the disgraced Asian title-holders Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, had reportedly been under financial pressure after losing his job. 

"An official of the club found him hanged from the balustrade" at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium in the southern city of Jeonju early Friday, a police spokesman told AFP.

Cha was sentenced to a 6-month suspended jail term in September last year for bribing two referees a total of 5 million won ($4,413) in 2013. 

The scout, who joined Jeonbuk in 2002, was immediately removed from his position after the ruling, while K-League leaders Jeonbuk were fined 100 million won ($83,000).

The Asian Football Confederation in January banned the defending champions from this year's competition due to its "indirect involvement" in manipulating the outcome of matches during the 2013 and 2014 K-League seasons. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – UFC Hall of Famer Matt Hughes suffered an accident when his truck got hit by a train in Raymond, Illinois on Friday morning, June 16, according to multiple reports.

The Illinois State Police, according to an ESPN report, explained that Hughes drove a pickup truck toward a railroad grade crossing and crossed the tracks "directly in front of a train and the train struck the passenger side of the truck."

The former UFC champion was airlifted from the scene at around noon to HSHS St. John's Hospital in Springfield, where he is being treated.

The hospital, in a statement posted on its official Facebook account, said its Regional Trauma Team has "stabilized him and continues to help him in his recovery."

"Hughes’ family asks that you respect their privacy during this difficult time. They ask that you keep Matt in your thoughts and prayers," the statement added.

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The same ESPN report quoted UFC President Dana White saying Hughes suffered "head trauma" and that "his family is traveling to him now."

The UFC expressed its support for Hughes in a post on its official Twitter account.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our thoughts are with Matt Hughes and his family. <a href="https://t.co/TF6BaHSa85">pic.twitter.com/TF6BaHSa85</a></p>&mdash; UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/875779157552111617">June 16, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The 43-year-old Hughes was a former UFC welterweight champion and holds a fighting record of 45-9. – Rappler.com

As already mentioned, this year’s Money in the Bank PPV event, exclusive to the SmackDown Live brand, is the biggest event ever. All they had to do to innovate, it turns out, was to make it brand-exclusive.

You already know this, but just in case there’s anyone out there who still doesn’t watch current WWE programming, SmackDown Live is holding the first ever women’s Money in the Bank ladder match on Sunday, June 18 (Monday morning in Manila). Like I said before, I’m surprised that it’s taken them this long to think of it, but then again they’ve only just moved past catfight women’s wrestling recently with the Revolution. I hope it opens up a tag team variant of the ladder match, but that’s a story for another day.

The WWE Championship feud between Jinder Mahal and Randy Orton is also being overshadowed by the two ladder matches, and right now that’s okay with me. The story’s winding down in its momentum as it’s starting to look clearer that Mahal is going to retain the championship and keep it for a while, so they just need to get this out of the way before they move on, perhaps for Cena to be the next challenger.

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Now, on to the rest of the predictions:

The Hype Bros vs. The Colons in a kickoff match

This should be a lot of fun. All of a sudden, the SmackDown Live tag team division is reignited with Zack Ryder’s return—in addition to mainstays the Usos and Fashion Police, jobber team the Colons (who were quickly pigeonholed into that role after arriving strongly), the New Day and the Hype Bros are here to strengthen the babyface side of the scene. The only problem now is that American Alpha is nowhere to be found, but who would have thought that SmackDown would still end up looking better than RAW in this regard?

Winner: The Hype Bros

Lana vs. Naomi (c) for the SmackDown Women’s Championship

This match should be mercifully short, but I have a feeling whoever wins here is going to get supplanted by whoever’s winning the women’s Money in the Bank match right away.

Winner: Naomi

The New Day vs. The Usos (c) for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship

Ideally, the first thing you do with the New Day in a situation like this is to give them the championships, because they’re the biggest draw you have in the division. That’s what I expect to see happen at Money in the Bank, but the Usos have been doing such underrated work as villains that I would make them hold on to it a little longer. People had suffered so much from New Day fatigue on RAW, where they were so dominant that fans knew they’d win every title defense they’d walk into. I trust SmackDown to give New Day a good chase.

Winner: The Usos

Becky Lynch vs. Tamina vs. Carmella vs. Natalya vs. Charlotte Flair in a Money in the Bank ladder match

First things first—rumors are stating that there’ll actually be 6 women in this match, because WWE is suddenly advertising one more. Going by other rumors, I think the sixth woman is none other than former WWE superstar Maria Kanellis, who is said to be rejoining the company along with husband Mike Bennett, who you might know from TNA, ROH, and NJPW. There’s no other woman, anyway, unless they’re calling up Asuka from NXT, which is still unlikely. That said, if they’re going to do that surprise return, it would be senseless if Kanellis isn’t winning it. They also do need a top heel in the women’s division after slotting Charlotte as their top babyface.

If that doesn’t happen, though, I’d say it’s Becky Lynch’s to lose. Charlotte can easily stake a claim for a title shot, so can Natalya, so best to give it to someone who needs a low-key guarantee for a title opportunity.

Winner: Maria Kanellis

Kevin Owens vs. AJ Styles vs. Baron Corbin vs. Sami Zayn vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Shinsuke Nakamura in a Money in the Bank ladder match

This is just about anyone’s game, as almost everyone in this match is bigger than the current WWE Champion. That said, like the Becky Lynch prediction, someone not as obvious or high up in the totem pole would need a guarantee in their back pocket for their opportunity. So as much as I’d like to give it to Shinsuke Nakamura, I think the odds are coming through for Baron Corbin this year. It also helps that last year’s winner, Dean Ambrose, immediately cashed in—it’s been a while since we’ve had a Mr. Money in the Bank storyline going on, and it would be refreshing again.

Winner: Baron Corbin

Randy Orton vs. Jinder Mahal (c) for the WWE Championship

The Mahal party is staying for quite a while, it seems. I also want this to last longer for the inevitable John Cena feud, which is sure to produce better matches than with Randy Orton.

Winner: Jinder Mahal

*****

Do you listen to podcasts? Would you want to listen to a local podcast about pro wrestling? If the answers to those questions – especially that last one – are yes, then you should check out the cleverly-named Smark Gilas-Pilipinas Podcast, featuring PWR General Manager Stan Sy, wrestling writer and Wrestling God Romeo Moran, and all-around multimedia person and former voice of PWR Raf Camus! This week, the boys have the Beautiful Billy Suede back on the podcast, who talks about his misadventures in the Philippines and how he sees local wrestling after four months in the country! Listen to it here!