Filipino-American rising star Sean Climaco saw his hopes of going 2-0 in ONE Championship dashed as he fell to Colombia’s Johan Estupinan.
Both men collided in a thrilling flyweight Muay Thai bout at ONE 168, which took place at the 21,000-capacity Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado on Saturday morning (Philippine time).
Despite the heartbreaking defeat, “The One” put forth a gallant stand against his undefeated opponent.
From the opening bell, the two strikers came out aggressively, leaving no room for a feeling-out process. Heavy artillery was exchanged early, and it was Estupinan who drew first blood, dropping Climaco with a right hook.
(C) ONEFC.com
However, Climaco’s resilience shone through. He quickly shrugged off the knockdown and retaliated with a knockdown of his own, delivering a right hook that staggered Estupinan.
The Filipino-American wasn’t done yet, as he pressed forward, decking Estupinan for a second time before the round came to an explosive close.
The 30-year-old Bay Area native — whose parents are from Cebu — appeared to be in control heading into the second stanza, but Estupinan had other plans.
Maintaining the same breakneck pace, “Panda Kick” switched to southpaw and delivered another devastating right hook that sent Climaco crashing down to the canvas.
(C) ONEFC.com
Though Climaco managed to beat the count, he was visibly shaken, and Estupinan pounced, unleashing a barrage of punches that tossed his foe back to the floor.
With one knockdown away from a technical knockout, Estupinan sealed the deal. A final picture-perfect right hook brought Climaco to the mat for the last time, forcing the referee to step in. The official stoppage came at 1:28 of round two.
Climaco’s professional record now stands at 11-3 following the loss, while Estupinan extended his unbeaten streak to an impressive 25-0.
The Colombian hard-hitter also received a $50,000 performance bonus from ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong for his second-round demolition.
