One FC to hold MMA event in Manila on Aug. 31

IN JUST over a year ONE FC has arguably become the biggest MMA organization in Asia.

With four MMA shows in Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia, it will again expand and hold another event, this time in the Philippines.

ONE FC will have its fifth event on Aug. 31 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Manila, two months after its top-billed event in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia that showcased the best fighters in Asia and two renowned names in the MMA world in former UFC fighters Renato “Babalu” Sobral and Roger Huerta.

“We will be in Manila this August and ONE FC will be in the Philippines at least two to three times a year,” ONE FC CEO Victor Cui told Sun.Star Cebu.

ONE FC’s roster includes eight Filipinos – Philippine MMA icon Eduard Folayang, Fil-Danish Muay Thai and MMA veteran Ole Laursen, undefeated featherweight prospect Eric Kelly, Wushu Xanda champion Geje Eustaquio, URCC lightweight titlist Honorio Banario, Jessie Rafols, URCC flyweight titlist Kevin Bellingon and unbeaten youngster Roldan Sangcha-an.

Cui has high regards for Filipino fighters, whom he believes are among the best in Asia.

“It won’t be long before you can expect to see a Filipino world champion in MMA and on ONE FC, there is just way too much talent and heart in Filipino warriors. I am very proud of my Cebu roots and to be a part of growing the sport of MMA across Asia. It’s an incredibly exciting time as the sport is being embraced by new fans every day,” said Cui, who is related to the Cuis of Cebu.

With Manila as ONE FC’s next destination, it would be just a matter of time until the biggest MMA stage in Asia visits Cebu City according to Cui, who traces his roots to Cebu and Camiguin.

“I’d love to bring it to Cebu soon.”