By Former ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion Eduard Folayang is advocating for Filipino fighters to seize the chance to compete at the highly anticipated ONE 168 event in Denver, Colorado, scheduled for September 6.
Folayang sees the invitation for Filipino athletes to participate in ONE 168 as a transformative opportunity, not just for himself but for his compatriots as well. Reflecting on his previous training stint in the United States alongside ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio, where they honed their skills under renowned coaches like Greg Jackson and Mike Winklejohn of Jackson Wink MMA, Folayang believes competing in Denver would be a fitting culmination of their journey.
Expressing confidence in the support of Filipino fans in the U.S., Folayang emphasizes the market potential for Filipino athletes on American soil.
While leaving the decision to ONE Championship, Folayang underscores the significance of Filipino representation at ONE 168, especially considering the star-studded lineup already confirmed for the event. Notable matchups include atomweight MMA queen Stamp Fairtex challenging Xiong Jing Nan for the ONE Women’s Strawweight MMA World Title, Jonathan Haggerty defending his bantamweight Muay Thai crown against Superlek Kiatmoo9, and Mikey Musumeci moving up three divisions to face Kade Ruotolo for the ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Championship. Additionally, Liam Harrison fulfills his desire to face Seksan Or Kwanmuang in a 140-pound catchweight Muay Thai clash.
With ONE 168 shaping up to be an event of unparalleled excitement, Folayang hopes Filipino fighters will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and leave their mark on the global stage.
