Honorio Banario’s All‑In Team Support and the Big “Rock” Showdown
When the Filipino star Honorio Banario steps into the ONE cage in Shanghai to throw down with Singapore’s knockout ace Amir Khan, he’s got a whole crew cheering him on.
Why a Solid Squad Matters
The former ONE Featherweight World Champion knows that a fight vs. Khan isn’t just another bout—it’s a gateway to the lightweight title, and it’s backed by Team Lakay’s unwavering crew.
“Having teammates who’ve got my back is priceless. They help me grow, lift me up, and keep me from slumping down,” Banario says. “It’s crucial to find a crew that feels like home, especially when you’re a martial artist chasing greatness.”
The Rocky Road Back to Glory
After dropping his featherweight crown in 2013, Banario hit a rough patch—five straight losses had him questioning whether he’d ever make his way back to the championship spotlight. That was the dark moment when the world seemed to say, “Maybe you should quit.”
His teammates, including mentor Eduard “Landslide” Folayang, rallied around him, slowly rebuilding the shattered confidence he’d lost. “They almost gave up on me,” Banario admits, “but they kept pulling me forward and pumped me with motivation. A strong team is that kind of lifeline.”
Team Lakay: Brothers On the Battlefield
Team Lakay’s camaraderie fuels a string of championships:
- Folayang – former ONE Lightweight World Champion
- Geje Eustaquio – ONE Flyweight World Title holder
- Kevin Belingon – ONE Interim Bantamweight World Champion
- Bang! 13 wins out of 16 fights in 2018 under head coach Mark Sangiao’s guidance
“We’re not just a team; we’re brothers,” Banario gushes. “We grow together, learn from each other’s mistakes, and feed off the shared energy. That bond is our secret sauce.”
Countdown to 8 September: The Rock vs. The Knockout King
The big showdown is slated for 8 September in Shanghai, China. Banario is ready to take on Khan head‑on, armed with a declaration that his belief in himself—and the unwavering belief his crew has in him—has never wavered.
“My team drills with me daily, pushes harder even when my energy dips, and their voices are always in my ear. They remind me to keep hope alive and celebrate the privilege of doing what I love,” he says. “It makes me realize I’m capable of much more than I think.”
Final Thoughts
With the team’s passion and support, Banario’s eyes are fixed on the future. Whether he can dethrone a knockout specialist like Khan remains a thrilling fight that’s sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
