ANA Julaton goes under the microscope as she makes her anticipated mixed martial arts debut against Aya Saeid Saber of Egypt in ONE FC: Rise of Heroes on May 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
A former world champion in boxing, the 33-year-old Filipina pride transitions into the world’s fastest-growing sport as a form of cross-training as the now two-sport star takes on an Egyptian kickboxing champion.
ONE Fighting Championship announced the women’s bout on Tuesday, completing the 10-fight card.
It will be a homecoming of sorts for the Fil-American Julaton, who has been boxing in the US, but will fight in front of her compatriots for the first time.
“Aya Saber is an experienced MMA warrior and champion in kickboxing… and what gives me strength through my ups and downs are the hearts of my Kababayan all over,” the morena beauty said.
But Julaton will have to be careful against the 23-year-old Saber, who is also trying to impress in her ONE FC debut. The Egyptian fighter holds a 1-3 MMA record.
“Unlike Ana, I am not new to MMA. Be careful Ana, you are entering my world. I’m coming,” Saber said.
Julaton is the fifth Filipino scheduled to fight in Rise of Heroes, joining Eugene Toquero, Eduard Folayang, Rey Docyogen, and fellow former boxing champion and MMA debutant Jujeath Nagaowa.
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