Eduard Folayang focused on takedown defense for Shinya Aoki rematch

Eduard Folayang just knows exactly what to do to beat Shinya Aoki again in their ONE title rematch later this month.

Folayang stopped Aoki in the third round the first time they met back in November 2016 and the Filipino MMA superstar is determined to put up a repeat performance.

His fight plan? Avoid getting taken down by the Japanese legend, who is known for his superb grappling.

“As much as possible, I will not give him the opportunity to bring me down to the mat,” Folayang said.

The 35-year-old Folayang had a solid takedown defense in their first bout and he aims to even be better in the rematch.

“It all boils down to how well I defend myself from his takedowns, knowing how expertly he moves with this sole purpose in mind. Takedown defense is a very important part of my training right now, and I am constantly improving in this area.”

Folayang and Aoki headline ONE: A New Era on March 31 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, Japan.

The inaugural show in Japan is ONE Championship’s biggest card yet with four world titles on the line.

The event also marks the promotional debut of Demetrious Johnson and Eddie Alvarez, two of the brightest fighters today.