Young Danny Kingad will never forget his first career loss.
Back in November of 2017, Kingad went toe-to-toe against Adriano Moraes for the ONE Flyweight World Championship. Then 7-0, the native of Baguio City looked to delight the home crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena by bringing home gold.
However, Moraes’ wealth of experience came through. The Brazilian put on a masterful display, tapping Kingad via rear naked choke with 15 seconds left in the opening round.
Two years since then, Kingad has a chance to make up for it. He takes on Tatsumitsu Wada on Friday, January 25, in ONE: Hero’s Ascent.
Beyond a home victory on home soil, a spot in the eight-man World Flyweight Grand Prix is at stake.
“Talagang pinrepare ko ito kasi merong Grand Prix, lalong-lalo na may champion doon,” expressed Kingad, who is 10-1 in his young prize fighting career.
“Ready na ready ako sa Grand Prix.”
Though he will not take Wada lightly, Kingad reaffirmed his stance that he will not face current ONE Flyweight World Champion Geje Eustaquio. Yes, even if he wins the Grand Prix.
“Nung nagsimula ako mag-training, nandun na si Kuya Geje. Hanggang ngayon, tinutulungan pa rin niya ako,” shared Kingad.
“Kahit anong mangyari, I will not fight Geje.”
