IT hasn't been the best of stretches for two-time ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard Folayang.
Since losing the title to Shinya Aoki in March last year, he has lost three of his last four bouts, including a shock split decision defeat to Pieter Buist last January.
But there's really no other way for the 35-year-old to end this funk than to get back to the cage, one which he will do at ONE: Inside The Matrix on October 30.
"I’m so excited to be back in action again, especially since having to wait so long in lockdown. We’ve been eagerly anticipating when we will be able to return to competition, and I am glad that moment has finally arrived. We’re absolutely pumped and training very hard right now to put on a good show," said the Team Lakay stalwart.
Folayang will be facing off against Aussie striker Antonio Caruso, putting pressure on himself to erase the bitter memories of his past losses and once again put himself in position for title contention.
"I can say the results of these next few fights are very important to us, as we haven’t gotten the results we wanted recently. So now, we are really aiming for the best results possible," he said. "We are completely focused on doing whatever it takes to claim victory right now. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re ready to give it our best. We want to go in there with confidence."
But Folayang (22-9) knows that he can't think too far ahead, knowing the legitimate threat Caruso (7-1) poses.
“Antonio Caruso is a strong fighter. I’ve seen his previous fights," he said. "I don’t think he’s a guy you can really take lightly. Of course, I am doing everything I can to prepare for his style. As usual, it’s going to be about dictating the pace and making him fight my fight. You can’t underestimate anyone in this game, so I’m not about to start with him."
“I’ve been training for a very long time now, even if I didn’t know who my opponent was going to be. I just wanted to get myself ready physically, and I just feel so strong right now. Mentally, I’m focused, and getting right to where I need to be.”
Still, Folayang is coming in confident as he vows to be the best version of himself after a nine-month lull.
"We’ve come up with a strong gameplan, I believe. And we have all the bases covered. Whether this fight is spent on the feet or ends up on the ground, I’ll be ready," he said.
"I’m going to show the world what a hundred percent of Eduard Folayang looks like. I’m excited to get back in the circle and do what I do best."
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