Eduard Folayang will be keeping a close eye on the Lowen Tynanes-Marat Gafurov bout during ONE: Collision Course this Friday, live from the Singapore Indoor Stadium.
And it’s because the former ONE Lightweight World Champion wants a rematch with the American.
“Lowen is a great wrestler, and he’s always looking to take his opponents to the ground. I experienced that firsthand when we met many years ago. However, I think I’m a much different fighter now compared to before,” shared Folayang.
“If we do meet again, I will prepare hard for him.”
Back in 2012, a 28-year-old Folayang took on a 22-year-old Tynanes during URCC 22: Dekada at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Though the bout took just six minutes and 22 seconds before it halted, it proved to be an all-time classic. For six minutes, the action was non-stop, with the two warriors figuring in a bloody bout that is still talked about up to this day.
The medical team on hand had to stop the bout after Folayang sustained a cut.
“The hardest thing about facing Lowen is the threat of his takedowns. It’s not easy to escape the ground once you’re there with him, because of his control. He is very good at controlling his opponents,” recalled Folayang.
Both Tynanes and Folayang are now under ONE.
And Folayang knows that Friday’s battle between Tynanes and Gafurov will be a war of attrition.
“I think the mental aspect of this fight is something to watch out for. It’s going to be about who can impose his game plan better. Whoever is stronger in the mind will win this fight,” said Folayang.
