The Philippine boxing community is in mourning following the untimely death of Jordan “Tuklaw” Padernal Atlao, the reigning flyweight champion of the Philippine Boxing Federation (PBF), who passed away after sustaining a severe injury during a sparring session in Butuan City.
Atlao, a native of Claveria, Misamis Oriental, died at ACE Medical Center Butuan after battling for his life for 10 days. He had fallen into a coma following a serious traumatic brain injury he suffered while training for an upcoming international fight.
According to reports, the 112-pound champion collapsed during a sparring session on March 2 while preparing for his scheduled eight-round bout in Japan on May 29 at Korakuen Hall, where he was set to face Japanese boxer Ryota Yamauchi.
His manager, Dondon Llagas of Don Punch Promotions, confirmed the heartbreaking news through a social media post, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the young boxer whom he said he had come to regard as his own son.
“Bug-at kaayo sa akong kasingkasing ang pagkawala ni Tuklaw. Murag anak na gyud nako siya,” Llagas shared, reflecting the profound grief felt by those closest to the fighter.
Llagas earlier revealed that Atlao had completed two rounds of sparring sessions that afternoon as part of his training regimen. Shortly after the session, he suddenly collapsed at around 2 p.m. and was immediately rushed to ACE Medical Center Butuan.
Doctors later performed an emergency operation that began around 9:30 p.m. on March 2 and lasted until about 4 a.m. on March 3. Despite the medical team’s efforts, Atlao remained in critical condition.
For more than a week, there were small signs that gave his family and supporters hope. He reportedly opened his eyes briefly and managed slight finger movements. But his condition remained severe.
Medical findings indicated that he suffered severe traumatic brain injury, reportedly linked to complications after drinking large amounts of water while still heavily sweating, which contributed to the critical state he never recovered from.
Friends, fellow fighters, and supporters described Atlao as a disciplined, humble, and determined athlete who carried the dreams of his family and hometown every time he stepped into the ring.
His death has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, especially among those who witnessed his dedication and rise in the sport. At a young age, Atlao had already earned recognition as a champion and was working hard to make his mark internationally.
For his grieving family, trainers, and supporters, the loss is immeasurable. The fighter who once thrilled audiences with his courage and relentless style in the ring now leaves behind memories of perseverance, sacrifice, and unfulfilled dreams.
Messages of sympathy and tributes continue to pour in for the fallen boxer, with many remembering him not only as a champion but also as a son, a friend, and an inspiration.
As the boxing world bows its head in grief, one message echoes across social media and the community he left behind:
Rest in peace, Jordan “Tuklaw” Atlao. Your fight, courage, and spirit will never be forgotten.