Former ONE Flyweight World Title challenger Danny “The King” Kingad needs to look no further to find inspiration as his run for another World Title hits its homestretch.
The 23-year-old Team Lakay standout looks at his teammate Joshua “The Passion” Pacio and his incredible run to the World Title to further motivate him to keep going.
“I want to follow Joshua’s footsteps when it comes to his eagerness to be a better and stronger athlete,” Kingad said. “From his first loss in a World Title fight, I saw his determination to improve his game to be a complete martial artist.”
There are quite some parallels between their paths to supremacy.
But seeing how Pacio strived hard, worked on his craft, and eventually led to not one – but two World Title runs, Kingad knows that with the same dedication, he will get to where his best friend is right now.
“I saw his focus and how he took coach Mark’s teachings to heart,” the Sadanga, Mountain Province native said.
“I am always inspired every time I see Joshua because I’ve seen what he’s been through and his willingness to strive for success,” he added.
“I am at awe with his dedication and hard work because I see it every time we’re together in the gym.”
Kingad is scheduled to square up against Reece “Lightning” McLaren of Australia in the semi-finals of the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix at ONE: Dawn of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila on August 2.
With three wins away from his ultimate dream, Kingad vows to grab the opportunity by the horns.
“We always want to maximize our chances on this team. What’s important is we’re improving. Like Joshua, we’re all learning from our previous setbacks. We all know that with hard work comes success,” Kingad said.
“I’m just three wins away from realizing my dream. It won’t be easy but I’ll do everything to win,” he added.
“I won’t be wasting my chances anymore.”
