Hopes were high for former BRAVE CF World Bantamweight Champion Stephen Loman heading into his ONE Championship debut.
Rated highly by ONE Championship, Loman was pencilled in to face no. 1-ranked bantamweight John Lineker on the promotion’s fourth show on TNT on April 29.
However, it was not meant to be. The 25-year-old native of Baguio City contracted the coronavirus (COVID-19), forcing him out of the bout.
“For the past few months, we have been preparing physically, mentally, and spiritually for us to be able to stay on top and win the fight. There was eagerness, excitement, and hope to make each and every one of you proud for helping us to keep going,” lamented Loman.
“Unfortunately, these goals and feelings have to be adjourned.”
Loman was not the only one affected. Fellow Team Lakay young gun Lito Adiwang was also forced out of his scheduled bout against Jarred Brooks on Thursday.
But there are things beyond their control, and Loman has accepted that.
“Circumstances that are out of our control are inevitable. Hence, I am deeply saddened that my debut fight has been canceled.”
Loman’s well-being is the utmost priority right now for ONE and Team Lakay.
Despite the predicament he is in, Loman, who owns a 14-2 record, vows to come back stronger.
“Despite this situation, I will still continue to work hard and nurture my well-being in order to take my future fights to the next level.”
