ONE Championship: Kings of Destiny at Mall of Asia Arena last April 21. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
If there’s one foreign country that Eduard Folayang holds dear into his heart, it has to be the city-state of Singapore.
It was in 2016 when the legendary Team Lakay member upset Shinya Aoki for the ONE World lightweight championship at Singapore Indoor Stadium and Folayang plans to channel that love for the Lion City once more for his comeback fight.
“Singapore is where I won the title, I was the underdog in that title bout against Shinya Aoki, but I managed to pull off the upset win,” said Folayang. “It was so memorable, the country will always be dear to my heart.”
“Singapore is an awesome country, the venue is so awesome, it’s truly world-class, and the energy is palpable. I won’t say it’s my home court but it gives me the motivation and inspiration because it is the place where I became the champion.”
Folayang managed to hold on to the belt for 364 days and he would’ve completed the anniversary if he hadn’t lost to Martin Nguyen on Nov. 10 at, of all places, Mall of Asia Arena in the Philippines.
And it’s been almost five months since Folayang has stepped inside ONE’s cage, but the former champion is ready to get back into winning form and showcase what he can do front of the same people that witnessed his history-making win against Aoki.
Folayang (18-6) will take on undefeated Russian Kharun Atlangeriev (11-0) on May 18 in ONE: Defending Honor.
“I am more motivated than ever,” said Folayag. “I am definitely looking forward to what 2018 is going to bring, I am laser-focused and I am confident that I can get the World title back.”