Gerry Peñalosa Brings Alex Ariza Back to Boxing with Kenneth Llover

 

Alex Ariza Officially Returns to Boxing — Now Working with Promising Filipino Prospect Kenneth Llover

For years, many have wondered: where did Alex Ariza, the American strength and conditioning coach who once played a key role in Manny Pacquiao’s rise to stardom, go after their highly publicized split?

Surprisingly, Ariza never really left the Philippines. He’s been living a quiet life, embracing the local culture and forming meaningful relationships with Filipinos — including none other than former world champion Gerry Peñalosa. It was Peñalosa who played a crucial role in convincing Ariza to return to boxing.

Ariza, who was instrumental in Pacquiao’s preparation during his fights with the likes of David Diaz, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and Antonio Margarito, was a visible and vital presence during Pacquiao’s historic run to eight world titles across different weight divisions.

Fast forward to today — Ariza is officially back in the corner, now serving as the strength and conditioning coach of undefeated Filipino boxing prospect Kenneth “Lover Boy” Llover (14 wins, 9 by knockout). Llover is preparing for the most important fight of his career — his debut under Kameda Promotions — against Panama’s two-division world champion Luis Concepcion. The bout is set for August 17, 2025, at the Winford Hotel and Casino in Manila and is expected to draw major attention, possibly even from Kameda Promotions head Koki Kameda himself.

Ariza confirmed that he has signed a long-term agreement with Llover, covering a minimum of three fights. He’s fully committed to developing Kenneth into the best version of himself — and he’s seen a spark that reminds him of a young Pacquiao.

“He has a little bit of Pacquiao in him, but we have a long way to go,” Ariza said.

I had the chance to speak with Ariza months ago. When I asked him why he had stepped away from coaching, he said he had become selective — only willing to work with fighters who showed true potential and were ready to fully commit to his intense, holistic training approach. Several boxers had already approached him, but to my delight, he’s chosen to work with Llover.

“Gerry asked me, and I said yes,” Ariza simply stated.

Ariza’s addition strengthens an already solid team around Llover — led by head coach Dindo Campo, and supported by Kenneth’s father and brother, who have been integral to his boxing journey. With Gerry Peñalosa steering his career, and Ariza now on board, Kenneth “Lover Boy” Llover may very well be on the path to becoming the next major attraction in Philippine boxing.