UFC Asia Executive Vice President Ken Berger. Photo by Ryan Leagogo
It’s no “Thrilla in Manila” but UFC Fight Night Manila promised to give some Saturday excitement.
Ken Berger, UFC Asia Executive Vice President, promised that UFC Fight Night 66: Edgar vs. Faber will surely bring the fireworks on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.
“Maybe not quite the Thrilla in Manila levels, but UFC Fight Night Manila will be an exciting one,” Berger said.
UFC Fight Night 66 will be the first UFC card on Philippine soil and will feature the second and third-ranked featherweights Frankie Edgar and Urijah Faber in the main event.
Filipino Wrecking Machine Mark Muñoz will also fight his farewell bout on the card as he faces off against Luke Barnatt.
“Muñoz has always been a fan favorite,” Berger said. “It’s a great opportunity [for us] to give give him the opportunity to be in front of the hometown fans.”
Berger appreciated the Filipinos’ sense and knowledge of the sport and after Manny Pacquiao’s arrival in the Philippines on Wednesday, the Filipinos have the UFC to feast their eyes on.
“Filipinos understand combat sports…the focus now is on UFC Fight Night Manila.” CC