Brandon Vera battles taller, younger British foe in inaugural ONE heavyweight title bout

BRANDON Vera vies for Filipino pride anew as he takes on Chi Lewis-Parry for the inaugural heavyweight title in ONE: Spirit of Champions on December 11 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Filipino-American fighter seeks to become the second Pinoy to win a title after former featherweight champion Honorio Banario as he faces a taller, younger British foe.

“I’m excited to have the honor of fighting for the ONE Heavyweight World Championship in the Philippines,” Vera said. “I am very much looking forward to fighting Mr. Parry, especially since he's been asking for it.”

The former UFC light heavyweight contender made a successful ONE debut in December when he knocked out Igor Subora in Warrior’s Way, but the 37-year-old 6-foot-2 Vera is giving up five years and seven inches to Parry, who’s unbeaten in six fights.

“This clash with Vera has been brewing for over a year now and finally, the truth will be told, the score will be settled, and the world will witness greatness happen this December,” Lewis-Parry said.