Former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Champion Kevin "The Silencer" Belingon believes he has much more to offer and promises to be at his best if ONE Championship gives him another opportunity to compete.
Acknowledging that his long layoff affected his performance against Bibiano Fernandes at ONE 171: Qatar, Belingon wants a quick return to prove that because he's regained his rhythm, he can perform significantly better in his comeback.
READ: Kevin Belingon sees his younger self in Carlo Bumina-ang
He's open to any opportunity to perform, even a kickboxing match.
"Since Qatar I rested for a bit then started doing light training once again just so I can continue to keep my body warm. I'm still hoping to return soon because I feel like I've shaken things off now," he said.
"Whether it be MMA, or even kickboxing, I'm all for it. I think I'm ready for a kickboxing fight."
He credits John "Hands of Stone" Lineker's success in striking sports for inspiring him to consider changing disciplines.
Lineker has won multiple Muay Thai fights and even challenged #4-ranked bantamweight kickboxing contender Hiroki Akimoto in his first kickboxing match.
"I've seen Lineker adjust well to the all-striking rules because he's got a striking background. He was pretty effective in there. He's got great results in there, and I'd like to pursue it as well. It motivates me to try out that sport," he said.
His decision isn't impulsive. Belingon believes he has a good chance of performing well, as his wushu sanda background provides an excellent foundation for kickboxing.
"I want to be active in martial arts," Belingon said.
"That's why I want to expand now, not just in MMA but in kickboxing as well. My wushu background falls right into the kickboxing ruleset and I believe there will be little adjustments on my end. Hopefully ONE gives me a shot at it.”
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