Former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang’s road back to the top of the division gets underway early next year. On January 31, the 36-year-old battles Ahmed “Wolverine” Mujtaba of Pakistan at ONE: FIRE & FURY, the first ONE Championship show in the Philippines for 2020.
“I’m so excited for this match. I won the last time in Manila, and I hope to build on that energy," Folayang said.
“Right now I can confidently say that I am in good shape, with seven weeks to go before the fight. I never stop training, regardless if it’s the holiday season or not. That’s how serious I am in getting the win and showing that I am still a contender in this division.”
Folayang lost his first two matches this year before scoring a technical decision win over Amarsanaa “Spear” Tsogookhuu at ONE: MASTERS OF FATE on 8 November.
Even at this age, Folayang continues to pick up lessons both in victory and defeat.
“Losing is a part of the game, and that’s why somehow I am happy because I learned my lessons and I ended the year with a win. Every step counts, and that’s why my next match will be very important.”
But the soft-spoken Filipino refuses to look past Mujtaba, who is looking to make a name for himself in the lightweight division.
One of the best martial artists to emerge from Pakistan, Mujtaba comes in with an 8-2 professional record, and all of his wins come from stoppages.
It is something that Folayang is wary of.
“Mujtaba is more of a grappler, though he is not afraid to mix it up on the feet. That’s what I’ve noticed in his previous bouts, that’s why I am really working hard, particularly on my wrestling,” Folayang said.
“He also comes from featherweight and will make his lightweight debut, so I expect a good challenge from him.”
But Folayang does not lack confidence. When asked about the result, Folayang kept his answer short.
“It will be a landslide.”
In the meantime, The Home Of Martial Arts returns to action on 10 January for ONE: A NEW TOMORROW at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.
Catch all the action live and for free on the ONE Super App.