EDUARD Folayang doesn't plan to let his Filipino fans down, as the ONE lightweight champion promises a slam-bang affair in his title defense on Philippine soil against Malaysia's Ev Ting in ONE: Kings of Destiny on Friday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Folayang returns to Manila for another ONE fight, but this time, as champion as he defends the championship he won against Shinya Aoki last year.
The Team Lakay fighter knows the streak Ting owns, having beaten several Filipino fighters in the past three years in Eric Kelly, Edward Kelly, and Honorio Banario, which is why Folayang is focused not to follow suit and be the next victim.
"Ayokong danasin 'yung same pain na dinanas nila (ng ibang Pilipino) sa coming fight," said Folayang during Tuesday's press conference at the City of Dreams.
Folayang enters the bout with a 17-5 win-loss card while Ting, who is coming off a victory over Kamal Shalorus last February, sports a 13-3 mark.
"This will be an interesting fight. Kung gusto niyo makakita ng fireworks, punta kayo sa Friday. Makikita niyo kung paano mag-fireworks ang Malaysia at Philippines," said Folayang.
But while he promises fireworks in the fight, there was mutual respect between Folayang and Ting during the press conference.
"Listen, (Eduard) is a great guy," said Ting.
"Alam ko na pinaghandaan ko at ng kalaban ko 'yung laban. Marami siyang ginagawa," added Folayang.
Filipino fighters also figure in other bouts in the card, such as Kevin Belingon who takes on Toni Tauru of Finland, while Banario battles Jaroslav Jartim of Czech Republic. Danny Kingad clashes with Muhammad Aiman, while Eugene Toquero fights Stefer Rahardian.
In non-televised bouts, Gina Iniong makes her ONE debut as she battles Natalie Gonzales Hills, while Robin Catalan takes on compatriot Jeremy Miado.
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