From Classroom to Octagon: “Gravity” Eustaquio’s Mission for ONE Championship Gold
Meet Geje Eustaquio, the Baguio‑born fighter who’s swapping textbooks for bout‑sticks, all while aiming for the top spot in ONE Championship’s flyweight division. His journey? A mix of stubborn ambition, some parental pressure, and a dash of surprising academic success.
Opposed by Mom, Driven by Determination
“Mom was against it at first. She worried that kades (fighting movements) would sabotage his studies. But Eustaquio was iron‑clad: he kept punching—both in the gym and at school.
“I didn’t drop the books; I just didn’t drop my dreams,” the 28‑year‑old says. While he juggled exams, he kept lacing up his gloves, honing skill after skill, day by day.
“Rolling Paperbacks & Boxing Gloves”
Conventional wisdom? Finish school, get a steady job, then maybe lace up for sport. But “Gravity” (yes, that’s his nickname) had a different game plan.
He earned a Master’s in Physical Education from the University of the Cordilleras, proving he could crack the academic code while maintaining a full‑time fight regimen.
Coaching & Company: The Mark Sangiao Story
During his studies, Eustaquio met Mark Sangiao—wushu maestro, future mentor, and the man who opened the door to Team Lakay. The duo bonded over shared passion, eventually turning teamwork into a professional partnership.
Since that pivotal moment, Eustaquio has blossomed into a fan favorite in ONE’s flyweight division, collecting high‑profile victories against Gianni Subba, Saiful Merican, and former Strawweight champ Alex “Little Rock” Silva.
The Gold‑Seeker’s Next Move
He’s already made a title challenge, but the dreamers’ eye is set on a second shot at the ONE championship belt. 2018? 2023? You name it—one thing’s clear: He’s back in the game, eyes glittering with ambition.
Eustaquio vs. Akhmetov: Manila’s Biggest Flyweight Showdown
The Stakes Are Sky‑High
- When: Friday, 26 January in the heart of Manila.
- What: ONE Interim Flyweight Title on the line.
- Why: It’s a rematch against former world champ Kairat “The Kazakh” Akhmetov.
- Why it matters: The current champion, Brazilian Adriano Moraes, is out of action.
What Made This Rematch Extra Special?
Back in November ’17, Eustaquio dropped the first fight in a split‑decision loss. Since then, the Filipino has been sharpening his striking, pacing his fights, and, most importantly, building a fanbase that’s ready to cheer him into glory.
“I know exactly where I went wrong, and this time I won’t slip back into that trap.”
— Eustaquio
Mixing Strategy, Speed, and Spin‑It‑Up Energy
Eustaquio’s mantra: “Push the pace, finish the fight, and make my family proud.” He’s applied what his trainers called the “gravity” approach: striking with precision, moving like a dancer, and staying mentally tight.
Family: The Bedrock of the Fighter
After years of resistance, his parents now cheer every punch. “They were against me at first, but they tossed a glove at me when they saw what the sport had done for me,” Eustaquio says. The proud parents stand in the crowd, their veteran eyes beating the rhythm of the cage.
“They want me to get a job, but they’re also my biggest fans.”
— Eustaquio
Why Martial Arts Is More Than a Sport for “Gravity”
- Every move teaches you resilience.
- Timing in the ring equals timing in life.
- It’s the only thing that makes you feel alive before the fight and still alive afterward.
Will He Light Up the Title?
He’s at the peak of his career, says his coach. “If we kid ourselves, a world title is a Sunday drive away; I’m just waiting for the green light.”
“I wouldn’t trade this life for anything.”
— Eustaquio
Takeaway for the Fans
It’s not just about a lock‑in bout; it’s about witnessing a personal revolution. Let’s watch Eustaquio rain down his strikes and see a new Filipino champion bridge the gap between dreams and reality.
