At just 21 years old, Ronerick “Jackhammer” Ballesteros is proving that the future of Philippine boxing is in powerful hands. The Pangasinan native captured the Philippine Youth Lightweight Belt during the “Thrilla in Manila 2” held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on October 29, defeating Cebu’s Speedy Boy Acope by technical knockout in the fifth round.
The victory kept Ballesteros’ record spotless—seven wins, six by knockout—and placed him among the country’s most promising boxing prospects. Trained by his father, Ronorick Ballesteros Sr., the young fighter dreams of putting their hometown and province on the world boxing map.
Fueled by Passion and Discipline
Ballesteros started boxing at the age of 12 and quickly found his footing, winning gold at the 2018 Batang Pinoy National Championships in Baguio City. “I tried other sports like running, basketball, and track and field, but boxing is different. It gives me joy,” he said.
When the COVID-19 pandemic halted competitions in 2020, he stayed committed to his training. Once restrictions eased, he decided to go professional, earning his first pro win in 2023 in Bayambang, Pangasinan.
His father credits his son’s rise to unwavering discipline: “You need to sleep early, wake up early, eat right, and train hard. You need to do everything,” he said. That same drive and work ethic continue to guide Ballesteros as he eyes bigger titles ahead.
Carrying on a Proud Legacy
Ballesteros expressed gratitude to the Philippine Sports Commission, Manny Pacquiao Promotions, and the International Boxing Association for staging Thrilla in Manila 2, which marked the 50th anniversary of the legendary Ali-Frazier bout. “I never thought I would be part of such a big event. It was an honor,” he said.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. attended the commemoration and reflected on the country’s historic place in global sports.
With an unbeaten record, strong family support, and a heart full of ambition, Ronerick “Jackhammer” Ballesteros stands as a new symbol of Filipino pride, and perhaps the next world champion in the making.
