There’s no question that Team Lakay took a hit following the exodus of its three former World Champions in Eduard Folayang, Joshua Pacio, and Kevin Belingon.
But for its sizzling hot prospect in Jhanlo Mark Sangiao, goodbyes are a part of life, and the only way to move forward is to move on.
That’s exactly what’s on his mind ahead of his bantamweight MMA clash with Matias “El Rasta” Farinelli on 22 April at ONE Fight Night 9: Nong-O vs. Haggerty in Bangkok, Thailand.
“I’m just focused on my training. On our end, there’s pressure to just be better in training,” he said ahead of his bout at Lumpinee Boxing Stadium.
“Our seniors are gone now, and we have to handle ourselves better in order to achieve great things in ONE.”
While he remains upbeat and positive, the 20-year-old admits that there is a bit of pressure— particularly with the young Team Lakay members —to step up and take on more responsibility for the squad.
With the team’s veterans now gone, development will have to be fast-tracked, and Sangiao knows that.
“In a sense, [I have to grow up]. We’re now pushing to regain the previous glories of Team Lakay and continue to bring prestige to the name,” he said.
“I have nothing negative to say about the departure. As for me, I have to focus on my training, push myself harder, and get a title back for Team Lakay.”
With his father and coach, Mark Sangiao, leading the pack, the second-generation star is confident that they’re on the right track.
“We have a great leader in my dad, coach Mark. He continues to teach us well, he advises us well,” he said.
“If he was able to turn my seniors into World Champions, I trust that he’ll be able to do that to us.”
To get there, he needs a big win over Farinelli, and with his youth and explosiveness, he’s confident that he can get it.
“I’m younger, I’m stronger. He might have more experience, but I feel like at my age, I’m now peaking physically. So, I’m confident that this match is mine,” he said.
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