STEPHEN Loman is leaving no stones unturned in his second title defense in the main event of Brave Combat Federation 18 which takes place tonight (PH Time) in Bahrain.
Loman, of Team Lakay, battles Brazillian Felipe Efrain who is coming off a huge win against Arnold Quero in August via knock out.
The former University of the Cordilleras criminology student said he has become a more intelligent fighter and vows to showcase his improved defense and ground game against the aggressive Brazillian foe.
Loman is the first fighter from the Philippines to be crowned as a world champion in Bahrain’s first MMA promotion after knocking out Gurdarshan Mangat within the first round in November 2016 and was crowned by His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
Later, Loman made his first historic title defense in United Kingdom where he faced former IMMAF gold medalist Frans Mlambo in a fight that went all five rounds to be decided in favor of Loman.
Efrain trains at the Chute Boxe Diego Lima which also hosts veteran bantamweight fighters including Thomas Almeida.
Prior to the bout, the bantamweight champion alongside Rolden Loman and coach Mark Sangiao paid a courtesy call to the Ambassador of Philippines to Bahrain, His Excellency Alfonso A Ver.
During his visit to the embassy, Loman was greeted by members of the expatriate community from the Philippines. Loman expressed his willingness to pursue his studies in criminology to serve his country and the society.
"I am grateful towards my country and countrymen for the support and motivation that helps me to achieve more. Also at Team Lakay, we are taught valuable lessons of discipline, determination and respect. I have prepared well to give my best at Brave 18 and to bring honour to my nation," said Loman.
Loman is currently riding high on a five fight winning streak and has not lost since 2016 when he suffered a first round knockout in the first round against Rex de Lara in the Guam based MMA promotion. (Roderick Osis)