REECE “Lightning” McLaren, currently ranked fourth in the flyweight division of ONE, believes that Danny “The King” Kingad, ranked third, is deliberately avoiding a rematch with him.
McLaren recently secured a come-from-behind victory against Hu Yong, ranked fifth, in their three-round flyweight clash at ONE Fight Night 22 on Saturday.
McLaren feels that Kingad has been evading him ever since their last encounter, which ended in a closely contested decision favoring "The King" in the semifinals of the ONE Flyweight MMA World Grand Prix. McLaren has been vocal about questioning the outcome of that bout.
“I believe everyone saw that I emerged victorious in that fight. It seems like he's been avoiding me ever since then,” McLaren remarked. “I'm not interested in waiting or playing games. I have my sights set on that flyweight belt.”
Since his loss to Kingad, McLaren has been on a winning streak, securing victories in five of his next seven matches. He remains confident that reclaiming the loss against Kingad would position him perfectly for a shot at the world title.
“I believe that at any point, with any win, I'm just one step away from that World Title opportunity, regardless of rankings,” McLaren asserted. “I've been a part of ONE for almost nine years, with 10 victories. I was slated to compete for the flyweight belt back in 2016. It's been a long journey.”
Kingad laughs off claim
Kingad laughed off McLaren's claim. He mentioned that he doesn't dictate his opponents but assured that he's not afraid to face anyone.
If ONE Championship decides on a rematch, Kingad stated that he would accept it without hesitation.
“Tell him to be patient. I'm not avoiding anyone,” Kingad stated. “I'm simply waiting for a fight offer and a contract.”
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