Folayang stands up against online bullying after death of pro wrestler

Former lightweight champion Eduard Folayang. INQUIRER PHOTO/TRISTAN TAMAYO

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino mixed martial arts star Eduard Folayang urged everyone to practice safe and responsible use of the internet with the incidence of cyberbullying on the rise worldwide.

Just recently, Hana Kimura, a Japanese pro wrestler and Netflix reality show star, was found dead in her home due to an alleged suicide that appeared to be brought about by online bullying.

“It’s always sad when we lose a member of the martial arts community. I didn’t know Hana Kimura personally, but I’m sure many people loved her. It’s just unfortunate that she had to go through what she had to go through. I don’t think anybody deserves that,” said Folayang, a two-time ONE lightweight world champion.

“For me, technology is two-faced. It can help humanity, but at the same time, it can also give some people an outlet to hurt others without consequence. I believe there is no place in the world for cyberbullying,” he added.

Apart from Folayang, other sports personalities including former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey and ONE Championship atomweight queen Angela Lee, have also shown their support for the 22-year-old Kimura.

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Lee reminded everyone about the importance of thinking twice first before speaking.

“I don’t understand why people feel the need to spread negativity and ill wishes to another person, whom they have never even met. Your words can uplift and heal someone, but they can also knock down and destroy someone,” Lee posted on Instagram Tuesday. “Please, think twice before you speak. It could save someone’s life.”

The 36-year-old Folayang also stressed that with everything that’s going on in the world especially with the coronavirus disease pandemic, the worst thing one could do is to add negativity.

“It’s a tough situation now but I think sometimes we just need to remind ourselves that our identity is not formed from the opinion of others. I encourage others to be strong and understand that our mistakes do not define us,” said the Baguio City native.

“I also want all the people out there suffering from depression to know that you are not alone, and that many people love you — your family, your friends. We should all help one another, especially during these difficult times.”

Folayang and the rest of Team Lakay have been assisting their local communities hit by the pandemic through relief efforts.