By Jun Ray Navarres
Filipino veteran Edward Kelly spoiled Ahmed Faress’ ONE main roster debut after scoring a split decision win at ONE: Full Blast inside Singapore Indoor Stadium Friday, May 28, proving that there is still enough gas in his tank.
The Team Lakay stalwart didn’t fail to disappoint his fans after completely adjusting to Faress’ grappling and scoring a much-needed win to continue his career as a professional MMA fighter.
Kelly scored a takedown on the Egyptian “Prince” in the second round but the grappling supremacy of Faress proved to be a real threat for the Filipino leading to almost a triangle choke.
However, “The Ferocious” showed his mental toughness to create enough space and last until he managed to escape the submission.
A rather tired and disappointed Faress’ became flat footed in the final round but the veteran Kelly remained cautious until the final bell scoring only body shots and accurate leg kicks to gain the favor of the judges.
Kelly’s aggressive fighting style can still be seen in his return, initiating the ground game in the opening salvo, catching the grappling master off-guard.
In an earlier statement Kelly said that he was ready to face Faress’ in a grappling fight.
“He’s great on the ground, but I’m also willing to grapple with him all night. I am confident in my grappling skills. So whatever area this fight goes, I want to dominate him. I want to showcase my hard work,” said the 36-year-old Filipino featherweight.
With the win Kelly returned to the winning column and improved his record to 13-8, while Faress went down to 16-4.
Follow the writer on Twitter: @burnsports
