Banario ‘stronger’ at lightweight, 100% ready for Indian foe
Honorio Banario. Photo from ONE Championship
Filipino fighter Honorio Banario hopes to continue his resurgence against Rajinder Singh Meena of India in ONE: Age of Domination on Dec. 2 at Mall of Asia Arena.
Banario, the former featherweight champion, has won his last two fights — beating Vaughn Donayre last April and Eddie Ng three months ago — after dropping five in a row.
“I’m a hundred percent ready to go back in there again. In victory or in defeat, I will never stop doing what I love to do,” said Banario.
“I never stop training. I train all year round. Whether I have an upcoming fight or not, I’m always prepared. True martial artists are always in search of perfection of their craft. I can’t wait to go back inside the cage and show the world how much better I have gotten,” he added.
Singh Meena, who has a boxing background, owns a respectable 8-2 record with all of his wins coming by stoppage.
“I know this fight against Rajinder will be really exciting. He is a good fighter. I respect what he has been able to do inside the cage. It’s not easy,” said Banario.
The 29-year-old Banario said he’s also more motivated to win after seeing compatriot and fellow Team Lakay member Eduard “Landslide” Folayang earn his first world title two weeks ago when he stopped Japanese legend Shinya Aoki in Singapore.
“It was such a joy to watch my friend and brother win the title. I am happy for him. It is an amazing feeling because I know I was able to help him achieve his goals,” said Banario. “We always try to help each other in training, and we have improved a lot together.”
“I’m a hundred percent prepared. I trained and sparred with Eduard [Folayang] for this fight, and I think I’m in great condition.”
Banario feels he’s at his best fighting in the lightweight division and he’s ready to show his Filipino fans just that.
“Ever since I moved up to lightweight, I feel so much stronger. This is my natural fighting weight, I am a lightweight fighter,” said Banario. “I just feel reinvigorated. My punches and kicks are powerful, my body is sturdy, my mind is strong.”
“Manila, get ready for me! I cannot wait to perform once again in front of the Filipino people. It is always an honor. I would like to say thank you for all the support,” said Banario. “I cannot wait to show how much I have improved as a fighter in the last few months.”
