Doliguez itching to return to action after one-year hiatus

Roy Doliguez. From ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

Roy Doliguez may have sat out a year from active competition, but the Filipino strawweight is in no way a slacker.

“I was still training, it did not stop,” said Doliguez. “Even if there wasn’t a fight, I still trained like there’s an upcoming fight. It’s my lifestyle. I’m in great shape for this fight.”

Doliguez (6-3) will end his nearly 14-month long inactivity when he fights Alex Silva (4-1) in the under card of ONE: Throne of Tigers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Feb. 10.

Now residing in China, the former boxer from Malungon, Sarangani said he is aching to get back into action.

“My move to China had benefitted my growth in mixed martial arts, I was able to learn new things that I can incorporate with what I learned back home,” said Doliguez. “It was a good decision on my part because I look at myself as a more complete fighter right now.”

Doliguez first fought in ONE in 2015 and is still looking for his first win in the promotion after ending his career in the local scene on a four-fight win streak.

His last match in the Asian outfit saw him lose to Riku Shibuya via unanimous decision on Jan. 23, 2016.

Doliguez, though, is optimistic he can break his dry spell and put on a show in front of his Southeast Asian neighbors.

“I am back, and I am so happy. I might have been away from action for more than a year, but the desire to compete has always been there,” said Doliguez. “I am so excited. I want to put on a great fight for the fans in Malaysia, and of course bring pride and honor to the Philippines.”