Four giants of the sport will face each other once again as the World Nineball Tour (WNT) Legends event rolls out on Jan. 22–24, 2026.
Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante headline the field for the Philippines. Joining them are American great Earl “The Pearl” Strickland and Germany’s Ralf “The Kaiser” Souquet. The gathering brings back some of pool’s most memorable rivalries and honors the champions who helped push the game to global popularity.
Reyes said he didn’t expect to play in an event like this at this point in his career, but he’s grateful for the chance to compete again in front of Filipino fans. He said the matches will be full of old memories and new moments.
Bustamante shared the same excitement, saying Manila has always been central to his journey. For him, the event is a tribute to the battles and history they’ve built together.
Strickland, a three-time world champion with over 100 titles, said every match with these players carries a story. He’s returning to Manila ready to show the intensity and character that defined their era.
Souquet, a world champion in both 8-ball and 9-ball, said the reunion is rare and meaningful. He’s eager to compete again in front of fans who understand the sport’s history.
WNT Legends is organized with Puyat Sports and will air live nationwide on One Sports and the Pilipinas Live App, and worldwide on WNT TV. Details about the venue, match format, ticket sales, and pay-per-view will be released soon.
Puyat Sports founder Aristeo “Putch” Puyat called it a proud moment for Philippine billiards. He said bringing these four icons together in Manila is something fans have long hoped to see.