Former ONE Featherweight World Champion Honorio “The Rock” Banario admitted that he did not care much about Father’s Day before becoming a dad himself.
Now it has become one of his favorite celebrations.
Banario celebrated his first ever Father’s Day last Sunday, albeit it came at such a weird time with the world still reeling from the effects of COVID-19.
Still, it was an unforgettable day for “The Rock” as he got overwhelmed with the messages and well-wishes as he embarks on the often tough, yet fulfilling, world of fatherhood.
“Back then, I didn’t really care too much about it, but now that I have experienced it and I get those messages, it’s really overwhelming. I’m still getting used to it but it’s definitely a great feeling,” Banario said.
“I truly know what it feels like now to be celebrating this day, because what we go through is tough. It’s nice to be recognized every once and awhile.”
The pandemic may have dashed his plans of an extra celebration, but he appreciates the newfound time it has given to him.
“It might be a tough time because we’re in a pandemic, but the good thing about it is that I have all the time in the world to spend with my son.”
For his special day, Banario and his family went to celebrate the occasion with his in-laws.
With restrictions loosing up in the country, and his current location isolated from the busier parts of the country, “The Rock” got a chance to bring his family outside.
“We did a lot of things last Sunday; I really enjoyed my celebration. We went to our in-laws and then we broke bread and enjoyed the day,” he said.
Less than a year has passed since his son who he fondly calls as Stone was born, but the 30-year-old is more appreciative now of the things that he used to overlook back in the day.
“Fatherhood is no joke, so that’s why it’s important that we make our fathers feel special every day,” Banario said.
“It’s challenging, but fun. It can be hard at times, but this will always be the biggest blessing in my life and I will always be grateful for it.”
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