The Team Lakay exodus continued into the new year.
Nine days into 2024, Stephen Loman, the no. 2-ranked bantamweight in ONE Championship, has announced that he has left the Baguio-based stable.
Before making his decision, the 32-year-old Loman had a heart-to-heart talk with Team Lakay chief Mark Sangiao.
“Last January 9, 2024, I had a heart-to-heart conversation with Coach Mark, and during our said meeting, I personally thanked him for all the help that he extended me to become a better fighter, and because of his guidance, I am where I am today,” he said.
“Moreover, I conveyed to him my desire to leave the team and after some discussions, he acceded and peacefully granted my request to leave the team, and actually, he even bade me good luck in my future endeavors.”
Under Sangiao’s watch, Loman went through the ranks, fighting in Pacific Xtreme Combat and Brave CF.
He eventually became Brave’s bantamweight king.
Loman then moved to ONE in 2021, winning his first three bouts before suffering a unanimous decision loss to John Lineker during ONE Fight Night 14.
Now, Loman is looking for a fresh start.
“My departure from Team Lakay is not the end of my MMA career but is just another chapter of my MMA career and continue to fight under the ONE Championship promotion which has been very supportive of me since day one that I competed in such promotion,” he continued.
“To all of you guys, hope you will continue supporting me as I continue to train and develop my skills while waiting again for a call from ONE Championship for me to fight inside the circle.”
