Eustaquio surprised with split decision victory in ONE

Geje Eustaquio declared the winner. Photo from ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

Geje Eustaquio believes that his split decision victory against Thai foe Anatpong Bunrad in ONE: Dynasty of Heroes in Singapore on Friday was more decisive than how the judges saw it.

“I was surprised with the three judges’ decision. I was expecting a unanimous decision win against my opponent,” he said.

Fending off a slow start, the 28-year-old striker recovered in rounds two and three, where he dictated the tempo of the match with his excellent footwork and superb counterpunching, landing leg kicks and right straights to frustrate Bunrad.

“Rounds two and three, I knew it’s all mine because I was landing my strikes. I was consistent with that. My work rate was much better this time around as well,” he said.

And Eustaquio had no doubts on whose hands will be raised when the buzzer sounded. What caught him off guard, though, was the way how the judges scored the bout.

“After the third round, I was already confident that I won the fight. From my view, I got two rounds to one,” he said.

Still, Eustaquio expressed his satisfaction with the turnout, which improved his record to 9-5.

“I am good with it. I respect it,” he said. “I am so happy whether it’s split or unanimous. I am the winner. I respect the three judges’ decision. I know I did my best inside the cage.”

And the Baguio native guns to further make his ascent in the ONE Championship flyweight ranks with this bounce back victory.

“It’s a breath of fresh air. I am back on the winning side. Of course, this will not be the end. There will be new assignments in the future. Anyone who wants to face me next, I am ready to dance with you,” ended Eustaquio.