By Jun Ray Navarres
Former BRAVE CF bantamweight world champion Stephen Loman shifted to Singapore-based promotion ONE Championship.
Team Lakay Head coach Mark Sangiao confirmed the decision on Tuesday night after Loman openly told the public about giving up on his BRAVE CF belt earlier this year.
For the Team Lakay stalwart, it is yet another opportunity to show the world what he got.
“It’s an overwhelming opportunity, but I’m excited to join my Team Lakay brothers in the biggest martial arts organization in the world,” said Loman.
“I’m excited to enhance my skills on this platform and showcase my style to millions of viewers across the globe. Of course, fighting in a new promotion and a new environment will be a challenge, but it’s one I’m more than willing to face. I’m ready to show ONE Championship fans the best of Stephen Loman.”
Loman has been BRAVE CF’s longest reigning bantamweight world champion after capturing the throne in 2017 against Canadian-Indian Gurdarshan “St. Lion” Mangat. Since then, “The Sniper” has not lost in his last four fights.
Sangiao fully supported Loman’s decision.
“Stephen Loman is one of the best fighters in the Philippines. His all-around skills will be on full display in ONE Championship,” said Sangiao.
“I spoke to Stephen and he’s highly motivated right now. He can’t wait to get in the Circle and put on a show. Of course, I’ll be there for him, as well as all of his teammates at Team Lakay, every step of the way.”
Team Lakay already has established a commanding presence in ONE Championship, with former World Champions Eduard Folayang, Geje Eustaquio, Kevin Belingon, Honorio Banario, and reigning ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio leading the charge.
Due to the significant difference in weight classes, it was not yet confirmed as to what division will Loman fight and also no details about his debut has been announced but he is expected to make his ONE outing this year.
Follow the writer on Twitter: @burnsports
Photo by Raul G. Landingin.
