Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Honorio Banario was once on the top of his game when he became the inaugural ONE World featherweight champion back in 2013 after submitting Eric Kelly.
That was the highest of highs for the Team Lakay warrior, but the low couldn’t have come sooner.
Banario lost his title just three months into his reign after suffering a knockout loss to Koji Oishi, which started a five-fight losing streak that the former champion is still trying to shake off.
Although he was able to rack up five straight wins after that devastating skid, Banario has lost two of his last three bouts, the last one a brutal technical knockout loss to Lowen Tynanes on Jan. 25, 2019.
“Honestly, losing sucks. It’s not a good feeling to have but on a positive note, I admit I’ve learned a lot from my loss against Lowen Tynanes,” said Banario. “There was a time in my career where I’ve lost five straight and I don’t plan on going back to that situation.”
“That’s why I’ll give it my all, I still have a lot to offer and a lot to achieve in my career.”
Banario can get back to winning form on August 2 when he takes on Dae Sung Park in ONE: Dawn of Heroes at Mall of Asia Arena.
“I’m ready both mentally and physically, I really want to get that win in front of my Filipino fans who never get tired of supporting me, win or lose,” said Banario (14-8).
Banario changed not just his in-ring habits but his lifestyle as well, switching up diets and his overall workout routine.
“I changed a lot of things, particularly in my mindset as an athlete,” said Banario. “Now I’m more dedicated and confident. I have this extra push that makes me want to be better. I feel faster and stronger.”
“I also focused on my cardio because no matter how good the game plan is, if you run out of air, you won’t be executing it.”