Eduard “Landslide” Folayang could not help his disappointment after his night ended prematurely at ONE: Masters of Fate last Friday, November 8.
Folayang came away with a technical decision win over Amarasanaa “Spear” Tsogookhuu after their match came to a halt in the second-round due to a gash on the Filipino’s left cheek.
An accidental clash of heads midway in the second round caused the stoppage. Then, since referees declared Folayang not healthy to continue, the match went to the judges. The 35-year-old eventually emerged victorious.
Knowing he could have given the Mall Of Asia Arena crowd more, Folayang certainly feels at a loss.
“On that night, I felt like the path was clear and I was relaxed. Of course, we did not expect that accidental headbutt,” Folayang said.
“I think from the start, we were able to control the match and he wasn’t much of a threat. I am just not satisfied because it had to go to that decision.”
His willingness to continue even after sustaining an injury goes to show how much of a warrior Folayang is.
“At least I was able to show that I won’t back down no matter what happens. I wanted a finish, but he was really tough,” Folayang said.
“I really wanted to continue. There’s no giving up in my vocabulary. I really wanted to unleash my true game.”
The former ONE Lightweight World Champion lit up his Mongolian foe from the opening bell, displaying his signature wushu striking to frustrate his visiting opponent.
Up until the unintentional headbutt, it was clear that Tsogookhuu was struggling to keep up with Folayang’s pace, so one can only imagine the Filipino’s worry when the match halted.
“When the headbutt came, I was wondering why his fist was so hard, but I wasn’t wobbled. I was on my back, but my head was clear – I was worried that it might end up a no-contest,” Folayang said.
Luckily for him, he still ended up the victor.
“I think it still went fair and square. I really wanted to continue, but of course, the doctor said that I can’t continue so I respect that.”
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