By Jun Ray Navarres
Fil-Am rising star Jackie Buntan hopes to further establish herself in ONE Super Series as she takes on Ekaterina “Barbie” Vandaryeva at ONE on TNT IV on Thursday, April 29.
After a one-sided unanimous decision win in her debut against Wondergirl Fairtex, the 23-year-old fighter makes a quick return to the Circle for a Muay Thai showdown with veteran Vandaryeva.
“My family is beyond proud and excited for me to compete on ONE’s TNT show. Being signed to martial arts’ biggest stage is one thing, but adding the factor of competing on a live TNT show, they are ecstatic and almost in shock that my dreams are coming to fruition,” said Buntan.
“I feel completely honored and grateful for the opportunity to be on ONE’s fourth show that will be aired on TNT. Being born and raised here in the United States, I’m excited for my friends and family, and all the other American fans can get a taste of what ONE Championship has to offer.”
Buntan shocked the Singapore-based promotion when she dominated the highly regarded Wondergirl earlier this year.
The emphatic win opened new possibilities for the young fighter. One of which is making her name known to the home country of her parents, the Philippines.
Ahead of her second showing in ONE Circle, Buntan did not forget to thank her fans and the Philippine media for the constant support which help pushed her through tough situations.
“There have been so many articles and coverage from so many news outlets in the Philippines that have shown nothing but love and support. It definitely adds to my confidence, not only as a fighter, but as a person. Having the nation of the Philippines rocking with me and supporting me just proves to me that I can make people excited and proud just by doing what I love to do,” said Buntan.
“Being able to represent my bloodline and heritage means the world to me. Being a Filipino-American competing in ONE Super Series is a great opportunity for me to not only chase after my dreams as a fighter, but also to open doors for the younger generation and prove that through hard work and resilience, you can make the life you want for yourself.”
Follow the writer on Twitter: @burnsports
