ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang is set to defend his belt for the first time against Malaysia’s Ev “E.T.” Ting on April 21, 2017 in the promotion’s return to Manila for its 10th event at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.
The 20,000-capacity arena will play host to ONE: KINGS OF DESTINY, which promises another evening of world-class mixed martial arts action that fans around the globe should not miss. Headlining the card will be the main draw of Folayang against Ting, where Folayang will be making his first title defense.
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Folayang, of the legendary Team Lakay in Baguio City, is one of the Philippines’ most experienced mixed martial artists. After nearly a decade of competing in various promotions, Folayang has amassed an impressive 17-5 mixed martial arts record.
The 33-year-old veteran has authored a career resurgence in 2016, winning three consecutive matches against high-profile opponents and showcasing a highly-improved wrestling and grappling offensive arsenal.
In his last bout, Folayang pulled off possibly the greatest upset in the history of Asian MMA by defeating Japanese legend Shinya Aoki and won the ONE Championship lightweight title in Singapore last November 11, 2016.
Folayang made a big mark in his journey through ONE Championship’s lightweight ranks by stopping Aoki by technical knockout within three rounds.
See story: Folayang Defeats a Legend
Folayang said “Winning the title against a legend like Shinya Aoki will forever hold a special place of distinction in my career, but it is only the first step in establishing my legacy. Before champions are recognized as greats and legends of the sport, every single one of them faced contenders that challenged their prowess as champions. In April, I will have the opportunity to show the world why I hold my coveted title.”
Folayang added: “I know how exceptional Ev Ting’s talent is. I am in a tough preparation for this bout. This will be my first fight in the Philippines since December 2014. I don’t want to let my countrymen down. I will make sure that the belt stays in the Philippines.”
Ting is a mixed martial artist of Malaysian heritage. He lives and trains out of Auckland, New Zealand, and owns a stellar 13-3 win-loss record so far in his professional career.
Ting is one of the most talented mixed martial artists to come out of Malaysia. He is a winner of his last four bouts over top-caliber foes. Eight of his 13 victories have come by exciting finish, including four submissions and four knockouts.
Ting secured a date with Folayang when he notched a split decision win over former title challenger Kamal Shalorus last February.
“I have worked tirelessly to be where I am now. It has finally paid off because I will get an opportunity to vie for a world title. It’s every mixed martial artist’s dream to become a champion. This is my chance to fulfill that dream. Eduard Folayang is a great champion and is admired by many Filipinos, but he has what I want. I’m coming to Manila to get it from him and bring the belt home to Malaysia.”, Ting said.
Victor Cui, CEO of ONE Championship, described the holding of the event as a must-see. “It is always an amazing time when ONE Championship is in Manila because Filipino fans are so intensely passionate about the sport of mixed martial arts. The atmosphere in the SM Mall of Asia Arena just hits a fever pitch”, he said.
“We can’t wait to be back in April as our team has prepared an incredible main event for the organization’s return to Manila”, he finished.
By: ARMANDO M. BOLISLIS