ONE: Adiwang eyes stoppage win vs Brooks

FILE – Team Lakay’s Lito Adiwang. ONE CHAMPIONSHIP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Lito Adiwang is unfazed heading into his fight against Jarred Brooks, who is widely regarded as the best strawweight in the world today.

Adiwang (12-3) clashes with Brooks (16-2) in ONE on TNT II on April 15 (Manila time) in a fight that could turn out as the Team Lakay rising star’s coming out party if he pulls off the upset.

But Adiwang isn’t just looking for a win as he aims for a spectacular performance.

“Ideally, I want to finish every opponent that I enter the Circle with,” said Adiwang.

“My childhood hero growing up was the legendary Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao in his prime had no hesitation. When he saw an opponent hurt, he would go after the finish until he got it. He is my idol. He motivated me to start this career.”

It’s easier said than done with Brooks hoping to pick up where he left off after coming off stints in other big promotions like the UFC, Bellator and Rizin.

“All I have to do is stick to the game plan, and fight to the best of my abilities,” said Adiwang.

“I know what he’s about, his strengths and weaknesses. He’s a good fighter. But I don’t think he’s met a fighter quite like me in the cage.”

Adiwang is oozing with confidence after getting back on track with a second-round knockout over Namiki Kawahara last January.

“I really believe that I can finish him. Every time I enter the Circle, that has always been my mindset. I want to finish my opponent in any way that I can, in the most decisive way that I can, as quick as I can. It’s in and then I’m out,” said Adiwang.

“That’s the ideal scenario. That’s what I’m working towards.”