ANDREW "The Bull of Philippines" Lagdaan has signed a contract with the Bahrain-based global mixed martial arts promotion, Brave Combat Federation.
Lagdaan will face the Mexican sensation Pablo Sabori in a featherweight bout at Caliente Casino in Tijuana, Mexico, on July 29. He will represent the Philippines in "Brave 7: Untamed" to become one among the first Filipino fighters to fight in Mexico.
He is currently training at the 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, California, and has won thrice out of his six appearances.
"I have been training the hardest that I have ever been for this fight. I expect my opponent to come up with his best, so it demands me to be at my best to face my opponent. On July 29th, the world will see the best 'El Toro' that has came out this far," Lagdaan said.
When asked about his roots in the Philippines, he said: "I am excited as well as honored to represent the Philippines. Most of my friends in the United States of America are Filipinos. I would like to showcase before the world that not only we are some of the most dedicated people in the world but also some of the hardest working and patriotic people. We are warriors and it's going to be great to put that on display for the whole world to see. I've been training in MMA for about 10 years with an emphasis in Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu. I've won multiple Amateur MMA titles and turned pro in 2014. MMA has changed my life for the better and I am looking forward to see what else is to come."
Brave Combat Federation is one of the fastest growing mixed martial arts promotions based in Middle East. Within a year of incubation, the promotion had held events in Brazil, India, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Brave has announced an event in Brazil on August 12 in Taruma, Curitiba.
Brave 8: Rise of Champions, the second event held in Brazil by the federation, will feature two championship title bouts.
Bahrain will also be the venue for the 2017 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA, which will be featured in the annual Brave Combat Week, which is set to take place from November 12 to 19. (PR)