His comeback has been dubbed "Redemption" and that's exactly what's on Jerwin Ancajas's mind when he embarks on a journey back to world championship-level in February 2023.
Ancajas, who reigned for almost six years as International Boxing Federation super-flyweight king, meets Thailand's Songsaeng Phoyaem on 12 February at the Imus Sports Complex in Imus, Cavite.
This will be the southpaw Ancajas' first fight since losing for the second time to Argentine Fernando Martinez in a bid to regain the IBF 115-lb crown last October in Carson, California.
"We'll try to bring Jerwin's confidence back," MP Promotions chief Sean Gibbons said.
If successful, Gibbons could facilitate a world title shot at bantamweight for Ancajas, who defended the IBF belt nine times across America, Macau, Northern Ireland, Australia and Mexico.
MP Promotions, owned by Manny Pacquiao, is joining hands with the city government of Imus in staging the slugfest.
Ancajas, who turns 31 on New Year's Day, is neck-deep in training in Magallanes, Cavite, under the watchful eyes of trainer cum manager Joven Jimenez.