1 February 2019
Former ONE Featherweight World Champion Honorio “The Rock” Banario absorbed a huge setback following his loss to Lowen Tynanes.
The 29-year-old Mankayan, Benguet native suffered a first-round technical knockout defeat at the hands of Tynanes at ONE: HERO’S ASCENT last Friday, 25 January.
The loss resulted to his exit in the prestigious ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix, but not without key takeaways against the American wrestling stud.
“I think he’s not as powerful as advertised. He’s not heavy on the ground when he comes to pin, but he positions himself really well,” Banario explained.
“He was quick to get a takedown, I didn’t even see it. I’ve thrown a kick, and the next thing I know is we were on the ground.
“I think we’re even when it comes to jiu-jitsu. In my case, I got caught in a crucifix. He has a great ground game, but it can be escaped from.”
Tynanes made a name for himself after beating Banario’s teammate and reigning ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard Folayang back in 2012 by way of technical knockout in the first round.
Then a newcomer in the game, Tynanes shocked the Philippines as he used his superior wrestling to overcome the Filipino superstar.
But if Folayang and Tynanes will face each other once again, Banario firmly believes that his teammate has the better chance of having his hand raised against the dangerous Hawaiian stalwart.
“He barely landed a punch on the feet. Should he fight Eduard Folayang again, we must focus on wrestling defense,” he said.
“He’s the same fighter who fought Folayang in 2012. He’s excellent, but may have already reached his full potential.”
