Team Lakay Gears Up for Macau’s ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER
Saturday, 23 June is a busy day in Baguio, but Coach Mark Sangiao’s calendar is even busier. He’s set to guide a trio of Filipino fighters into the roar of Macau’s cage, each with their eyes on a championship. With a mix of training hype and a dash of humor, here’s how the team is stacking up.
Round 1: The Flyweight Conquest – Danny “The King” Kingad vs. Ma Hao Bin
- Goal: A win could put Danny on the radar for a flyweight title shot.
- Challenge: Ma Hao Bin is a formidable wrestler with an aggressive fight style.
- Coach’s Take: “Both fighters love to hit hard and wrestle. The true test is who can stick to their plan. On the mat, it’ll be a tactical showdown – but we’re firing up Danny’s confidence to level up this final lap.”
- Training Focus: Power kicks, quick takedowns, and mental‑fortitude drills.
Round 2: The Featherweight Thriller – Edward “The Ferocious” Kelly vs. Jadambaa “Tungaa” Narantungalag
- Goal: Defeating a former ONE Featherweight Champion could secure Kelly a world title shot.
- Coach’s Insight: “Every opponent is a ‘toughest fight’ in our eyes. Jadambaa may have strength, but Kelly has speed and cunning – he’ll drop the lights on any boxer who gets in his way.”
- Preparation: Heavy striking drills, grappling exchanges, and strategic game‑plans to exploit Jadambaa’s heavy‑handed style.
Round 3: The Flyweight Title Unification – Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio vs. Mikinho “Adriano” Moraes
- Event: Interim Flyweight Champion Geje will aim to unify the crown against the reigning champion.
- Coach’s Strategy: “We’ve covered every base – striking, grappling, defense. We’re ready to adapt to any angle. Geje has found his rhythm, and we’ll let that shine.”
- Training Highlights: Sparring with peers mimicking Moraes’ grappling style, conditioning to maintain control throughout the fight.
Coach Sangiao’s Coaching Playbook
Coach Mark is not just a trainer; he’s a motivational rockstar who refuses to let bad weather or setbacks dent his team. He says,
- “Big rain in Baguio? No problem. We keep up outdoor workouts, because world champions don’t let obstacles get in their path.”
- “Our athletes are 100 % ready. The heat of training and the temp of the arena – we’re prepped for both.”
- “Each fight is a step forward. You win or lose, you learn a lesson.”
Why Team Lakay Is on the Proving Grounds
The Taiwanese “World Champion” title’s biggest fight is now a test bed for new talent. With each of the three fighters fighting for a shot, Team Lakay has the chance to secure a trio of headline wins in Macau – a perfect platform to showcase Baguio City’s rising gym prowess. And while the fight cards look jugglery, the coach’s message is clear: “We give it all in every bout, leave nothing behind, and win or grow – either way, we’re moving forward.”
Final Bell – A Night of Fire and Fury
With training hardened and spirits high, the 23rd will see a night that’s both thrilling and educational. Whether you’re rooting for the King’s triumph over a wrestling body or watching Geje claw back a dominator to unify the title, Team Lakay’s confidence and Coach Sangiao’s verdict are louder than any cheering crowd. It’s going to be one unforgettable night in Macau – full force, full heart, and full flash.
