The pair of world-class strikers have landed in the semi-finals of the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix after Timofey Nastyukhin, who was scheduled to face Honorio “The Rock” Banario, had to withdraw from the tournament due to an injury.
The former ONE Lightweight World Champion from Baguio City welcomed the announcement with open arms, and he plans to grab the opportunity by the horns when he takes on Alvarez at ONE: Dawn of Heroes on August 2 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.
“This is added motivation for me because my path is clear now in every fight,” Folayang said. “I definitely need to win this.
“I wasn’t supposed to be here in the first place and I am happy for this opportunity. Now it’s all about making the most of it.”
Folayang, touted as the face of Philippine mixed martial arts, stated that the bout would serve as a gauge to see if he has what it takes to get a third run at the World Title despite turning 35 this year.
Now the stakes just got bigger for him.
Not only will he see if he still has it, but he’ll also be a win away from a World Title shot should he get past Alvarez.
“I’m excited because now we’re officially part of the Grand Prix, but of course I have to win. All of that won’t mean anything if I don’t win,” Folayang said.
“The mindset is to get in there, win, and beat a big name. That’s the aim, that’s the goal.”
There will be no holding back for Folayang the moment he enters the ONE Circle on August 2 as he vows no less than fireworks at the Mall of Asia Arena for the thousands of his adoring fans in attendance.
With a willing dance partner in Alvarez – the excitement is warranted.
“This will be an explosive fight,” he vowed. “I’ve worked hard for it during training.
“For sure I want to deliver the performance of a lifetime.”
