An unexpected bout proposition pitting Jhanlo Sangiao against Fritz Biagtan recently made waves on social media.
The idea was brought up by none other than Jhanlo’s father, Mark Sangiao, who also serves as the head coach of Team Lakay.
While the thought of it had many excited, Fritz is choosing to step away from the potential showdown, at least for the time being.
The twist in the tale is not just limited to the matchup itself; it’s the history between Mark and Fritz’s old man, Raysaldo Biagtan, that adds depth and intrigue.
Back in March 2009, both men crossed paths under the URCC banner, with Mark emerging victorious by first-round submission.
Their encounter had become a part of Philippine mixed martial arts lore, and Raysaldo humorously proposed a rematch to Mark on Facebook.
However, Mark had an alternative suggestion. He offered that the battle should be fought through their sons, Jhanlo and Fritz, both of whom are now carving their own paths in ONE Championship.
Fritz is undoubtedly flattered by the possibility of sharing the stage with Jhanlo.
“Actually, it’s a great idea for Jhanlo and me to face each other. I like the idea. I was surprised by people’s reaction when it came out on social media. But if it happens in the future, why not? It’s good for both parties,” he told Tiebreaker Times.
Despite the allure of such an exciting all-Filipino duel, he is not inclined to face Jhanlo for now. His decision is motivated by his desire to focus on growing his profile in the promotion.
(C) ONEFC.com
“I think I need to establish my name as part of ONE first before anything else. Then after that, let’s see if the people still want to see Biagtan vs. Sangiao in ONE,” the younger Biagtan said.
Jhanlo currently boasts a 3-1 record on the main roster, while Fritz plies his trade on the weekly ONE Friday Fights series.
“Kid Tornado” believes that he has more to prove in the organization’s ranks, and it all begins with his upcoming clash against Deepak Bhardwaj at ONE Friday Fights 38 on October 27.
For Fritz, this ring assignment is a crucial step in his professional career.
“Let’s make my name big first. Not all Filipinos know me yet. That’s the goal—to maximize the opportunity that I have right now to make myself known,” he stated.
The 28-year-old phenom from Dasmariñas, Cavite hopes that in the future, when the time is right, he and Jhanlo can revisit the idea of locking horns against each other.
To make the tiff even more compelling, Fritz advocates that if it ever comes to fruition, they should meet halfway.
Jhanlo campaigns in the talent-filled bantamweight division, which has a limit of 145 pounds. On the other hand, Fritz competes in the equally stacked flyweight bracket, where all fighters have to weigh 135 pounds or less.
“If this fight really goes ahead in the future, if it happens under ONE, we should meet halfway. 140 pounds, I think, is a good catchweight,” he stressed.
Fritz recognizes that the fight would generate a tremendous amount of interest due to its unique backstory and the connection between their families.
“I respect Jhanlo. He’s a good fighter, very explosive, very smart. It’s going to be a great fight if ever it happens.”
