Pacquiao is my motivation, says Filipino MMA star Folayang

Eduard Folayang. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

There’s no greater athlete for Eduard Folayang to emulate than his countryman Manny Pacquiao.

Folayang, a ONE Championship lightweight contender, sees the Filipino boxing legend as his inspiration as he continues his ascent in the world MMA stage.

READ: Folayang gets title shot vs Asian ‘legend’ after long wait

“I’m looking at Manny Pacquiao as a motivation for me. He really makes the Filipinos and the sport become great because of his unorthodox and unconventional way of boxing,” said Folayang, who hails from Baguio City.

Like Pacquiao, one of the best fighters ever, in boxing, Folayang wants to make the same impact in MMA.

“What Manny Pacquiao did in boxing I also want to do it in MMA. The sport will be huge inspiration to the youth,” said the 31-year-old Folayang.

“Every time they hear my name it will always be connected to martial arts.”

Folayang faces celebrated Japanese fighter Shinya Aoki in a title fight in the main event of ONE: Defending Honor set on Friday in Singapore.