Mike Plania to fight Joshua Greer as boxing returns amid COVID-19 pandemic

Filipino fighter Mike Plania is set to face Joshua Greer Jr. in Las Vegas as boxing returns to action amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

According to Chino Trinidad's report for "24 Oras," Top Rank Promotions has been able to stage fight cards under the supervision of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

The upcoming bout on June 16 (June 17, Manila time) is so far the biggest fight of Plania's career. His opponent, who holds a 22-1 record, is ranked no. 1 in the WBO bantamweight category.

"Ito 'yung laban na ine-expect ko sir nung bata pa ako. Minsan tinitingnan ko lang sa TV na balang araw makakalaban din ako diyan, ngayon sa awa ng Diyos sir nagkatotoo din," said Plania, who himself holds a 23-1 record.

"Magic Mike," who hailed from General Santos City, said boxers had to make adjustments on their training amid the COVID-19 threat.

He said many fighters were unable to go the gym, but thankfully his fellow Filipinos helped him with sparring.

"Maingat naman kami sa training sir kasi hindi kami lumalabas nung time 'yun na medyo malakas pa 'yung virus," he said.

Despite the uncertainty of the sports' situation the past few months, Plania said he kept getting himself ready for the opportunity to fight.

"Pasalamat ako sa Panginoon sir dahil binigyan ako ng talento na ganito saka mapakita ko sa buong mundo kung anong meron si Magic Mike," he said. —MGP, GMA News