Fil-Kiwi Mark Abelardo added to ONE Thailand card

Mark Fairtex Abelardo. FILE PHOTO/ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-Kiwi Mark Abelardo was among the new fighters added to the card of ONE: No Surrender on July 31 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Abelardo will figure in a catchweight bout against Fabriģcio Andrade of Brazil after ONE announced three additional fights for its first flagship event since the coronavirus pandemic.

“The entire world is reeling right now, and if by stepping into the ring and showcasing my skills can help inspire people to soldier on, I’m glad to do it,” Abelardo, who trains in Thailand, said.

The 28-year-old Abelardo (19-7), who was born in New Zealand to Filipino parents, is looking to bounce back after losing to Troy Worthen via unanimous decision five months ago in Singapore.

“I’m thankful we can get back to competing again. This is what I live for, and I have so much I want to do in this sport. The next step starts in Bangkok.”

Andrade (2-2), on the other hand, hopes to draw a good first impression when he makes his ONE debut.

“Making my ONE Championship debut in Bangkok is very exciting for me. It’s still early in my career, but I can say I’ve improved a lot over the last few years,” he said.

“I’m laser-focused right now on making a successful debut. I know my opponent is very powerful, so I’m getting ready with a strategy to handle his power. I want to show the fans what I can do.”