Kevin Belingon. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Just a day removed from Filipino MMA Legend Eduard Folayang’s departure from Team Lakay, another former champion left headmaster Mark Sangiao’s den.
Kevin Belingon announced he has officially parted ways with the famed stable to further “cultivate his skills.”
“My decision to leave the team comes only from my own personal desire to cultivate my skills. Since I’m still an active ONE Championship athlete. It is my earnest prayer that you, my colleagues, friends and followers will understand and respect my decision,” Belingon posted on social media on Saturday.
Like Folayang, Belingon trained under the tutelage of Sangiao for 16 years.
Belingon’s last fight as part of Team Lakay was four months ago when he lost to Jae Woong Kim via TKO in the first round.
The 35-year-old Belingon once held the ONE bantamweight crown back in November 2018 after dethroning Brazilian rival Bibano Fernandes.
But Belingon (20-10) hasn’t won since having dropped his last five assignments.
“I had a farewell talk with coach Mark Sangiao and we ended on a good note. Coach, thank you for everything and for understanding my need for growth,” Belingon said.
“With whole sincerity, [I] wish you all the best in life.”