Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—There is no time to celebrate for Danny Kingad, the lone bright spot in an otherwise grim night for Team Lakay in ONE: Dawn of Heroes last Friday.
The 23-year-old Kingad escaped with a split decision victory over Reece McLaren that came with a ticket to the finals of Flyweight World Grand Prix where Demetrious Johnson awaits.
With a foe as dangerous the Mighty Mouse, who has built a legacy as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of the sport, Kingad is buckling down to work.
“Now I just want to see my baby, and then after three to four days I think I’m back training,” Kingad said.
“It’s gonna be an intense training camp. I’m happy that he won because I really want to face him. That’s my next goal – beat him.”
After conquering one of the athletes he’s has looked up to in McLaren, he is more confident to take on any challenge—Johnson included.
“I am really happy getting that win over him. As I’ve said, he has been my idol and for me to get a win over him, I’m even more motivated to do well now,” Kingad shared.
“I was surprised by a lot of things in the match, but nonetheless I’m very grateful for the win.”
Expect Kingad to work harder than ever before especially with the title shot well within reach now.
“I’m just two wins away from my ultimate goal. Right now, I’m motivated to work harder to make sure that I reach my goals.”