Eduard Folayang chases form that built Philippine MMA scene

Eduard Folayang is hunting for the run that first put Philippine mixed martial arts on the global map. The former ONE Championship lightweight titleholder, now 40, has lost seven of his last nine bouts but remains determined to return to the form that made him a household name across Southeast Asia, according to ESPN.

Folayang told ESPN he understands the skepticism surrounding his late-career resurgence attempt. The Team Lakay veteran built his legacy on explosive wushu striking and a relentless pace that carried him to the ONE lightweight belt in 2016, a reign that sparked mainstream interest in MMA throughout the Philippines and helped launch a generation of Filipino fighters onto the international stage.

Folayang's Plan to Reverse Slide at ONE Championship

The Baguio City native has won just twice since 2019, a stretch that included knockout losses and decision setbacks against younger contenders. Despite the skid, Folayang has not announced retirement plans and continues training at the famed Team Lakay gym, which has produced multiple ONE champions under head coach Mark Sangiao.

Folayang's next fight date has not been confirmed by ONE Championship. The promotion has historically given veteran stars extended runway to rebuild, and Folayang remains one of the most recognizable athletes on the Asian circuit.

Reported via:

• ESPN MMA — Eduard Folayang seeks to rekindle magic that shaped Philippine MMA