Lions Nation MMA marked a significant milestone last Saturday as it celebrated its first anniversary at the Landslide Martial Arts Training Center in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Founded by Eduard Folayang, Kevin Belingon, Honorio Banario, and Joshua Pacio, the group achieved remarkable success across various fronts over the last 12 months.
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These four men established the stable when they shockingly left Team Lakay in 2023.
Since then, Lions Nation MMA bolstered its roster of talents by welcoming the likes of Danny Kingad, Stephen Loman, Jeremy Pacatiw, and Edward Kelly into the lineup.
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The highlight of their first year came with Joshua Pacio reclaiming the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title in a controversial rematch against Jarred Brooks at ONE 166 in Qatar this past March.
Furthermore, the past year witnessed Folayang and Pacatiw’s triumphant performances in ONE Championship, alongside the team’s stellar 11-medal campaign at the ASJJF Manila Open Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023.
Notably, the younger members among its ranks – organized into two separate units known as the “Young Lions” and “Cubs” – showcased their potential in both national and regional competitions.
(C) Lions Nation MMA
“We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved in just one year. Our success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every member of our team,” Folayang stated.
As Lions Nation MMA embarks on its second year, anticipation runs high for what lies ahead.
The star-studded camp is set to announce a “new team partner” in the coming weeks, a move expected to bolster training and development efforts significantly.
“As we enter our second year, we are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead,” the former ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion said.
