Jake Amparo

Jake Amparo, known by the moniker “El Bambino,” is a professional boxer from Guindulman, Bohol, Philippines. Born on December 27, 1998 (though some sources list his birth year as 1997), Amparo stands at 5 feet 4.5 inches (164 cm) and competes in the minimumweight division, typically weighing around 47 kg (103 lbs). He fights from an orthodox stance and has built a reputation as a resilient, technically sound operator with a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on tough challenges both at home and abroad.
Amparo turned professional in 2016 and quickly made his mark on the Philippine boxing scene. While his knockout ratio of just over 14% suggests he is not a heavy puncher, Amparo’s success is built on his ability to outwork opponents, maintain a high work rate, and adapt to different styles. His notable victories include a unanimous decision win over Goki Kobayashi for the WBO Asia Pacific Minimumweight title in Kobe, Japan, and a knockout of Clyde Azarcon for the Philippine Minimumweight title in his hometown of Guindulman.
Amparo has also captured the World Boxing Foundation Asia Pacific Minimumweight title, demonstrating his ability to perform at the regional level.
One of the defining moments of Amparo’s career came in March 2024, when he stepped in on short notice to challenge Ginjiro Shigeoka for the IBF World Minimumweight title in Nagoya, Japan. Amparo replaced ArAr Andales, who withdrew due to medical concerns and faced the undefeated Japanese champion with just days to prepare. Despite the daunting task, Amparo showed courage and professionalism but was ultimately stopped in the second round by a body shot from Shigeoka. 
The loss did little to diminish Amparo’s standing among Filipino boxing fans, who praised his willingness to take on such a formidable opponent on such short notice.
Amparo’s fighting style is characterized by a solid jab, good movement, and a high volume of punches. He is not known for one-punch knockout power but rather for his ability to wear down opponents throughout a fight. His bouts have taken him across the Philippines, as well as to Japan, Thailand, and South Africa, where he has faced a diverse range of opponents and gained valuable international experience. Amparo’s willingness to travel and take on allcomers has earned him respect within the boxing community and helped him climb the world rankings; as of early 2024, he was ranked as high as 9th by the World Boxing Association in the minimumweight division.