By Jun Ray Navarres
MMA Icon Eduard Folayang unveils new training facility and MMA stable in La Trinidad, Benguet after the sudden departure from the fabled Team Lakay more than three months ago.
Together with longtime teammates Kevin Belingon, Honorio Banario, and Joshua Pacio, Folayang inaugurated the Landslide Martial Arts Training Center last June 24, 2023.
Aside from the new training center, Folayang added the establishment of Lions Nation MMA, which places a strong emphasis on character development and personal growth apart from the physical aspects of combat sports training.
“We don’t just train fighters; we unleash greatness within individuals. It’s not about the punches thrown or the techniques mastered, but rather the transformative journey that occurs when you push beyond your limits, conquer your fears, and discover the champion’s attitude within,” shared Folayang.
Folayang’s brand-new gym provides a comprehensive space for training, complete with a miniature cage for MMA scrimmages, a dedicated area for grappling drills, and an assortment of punching bags.
The gym also offers a sauna for relaxation, emphasizing on the recovery after every session.
“The vision of our new gym is to provide a holistic and complete training experience for every individual,” the two-time ONE Lightweight World Champion said.
Belingon, the former ONE Bantamweight World Champion, is ecstatic about the bright future that awaits them as a group.
“As we embark on this new journey together as a team, I cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement for what the future holds. We have assembled a remarkable band of practitioners, each bringing their unique skills and passion to the table,” said Belingon.
Other than the former world champions standing as “kuyas” of the gym, other known fighters such as Edward Kelly and Jeremy Pacatiw, as well as a cluster of up-and-comers such as Estrada Donga-as, Denver Songaben, Aaron Posawen, and Jahn Serbo will be helping in the stable.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt Gibran Langbayan and striking coach Don-Don Colas will also serve as their in-house trainers.
“This is not just a place to train, but a sanctuary where dreams are realized, and legacies are born,” concluded Folayang.
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