FORMER One lightweight champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang knows exactly what his upcoming match means not only for his legacy but his career in general.
The 36-year-old returns to action on Thursday when he completes his trilogy against Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki at One on TNT IV which airs live from the Singapore Indoor Stadium at 8:30 a.m. on One Sports.
After splitting their initial matches, Folayang knows that coming out on top of a trilogy against an established legend like Aoki will be huge for his legacy.
But given that Aoki is still one of the best in the lightweight division — the fourth ranked contender to be exact — this isn’t just a “legacy bout” for these two men. The outcome could tow the winner back to the World Title mix.
“This means a lot. Winning a trilogy against a legend of the sport, someone who’s adored by many people, will be a big thing for my legacy,” Folayang said.
“Aside from that, given that Shinya is still in the top five of the division, it will also silence the critics and hopefully push me to another run at a World Title.”
Facing Aoki had been preparing for Yoshihiro “Sexyama” Akiyama but both Akiyama and Aoki’s original opponent in “Super” Sage Northcutt pulled out, leaving the two division icons without opponents, which led to this bout.
“We’re already preparing for what Shinya plans to do, and knowing him, he plans to get the fight to the ground as early as possible,” Folayang said.
“Now we’re working double time to prevent a battle on the ground, and we’re also working on what to do just in case we’re there.”
“On our part, we’re looking for ways to strike Shinya when the match remains standing. If there’s an opening for the finish, make no mistake that we’re going for that,” he said.
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