(CNN Philippines) — There are now two Filipino title holders in ONE Championship after Eduard Folayang took home the ONE lightweight world title after scoring a technical knockout against Shinya Aoki at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Friday.
The Baguio-based fighter weathered a strong start from his Japanese foe, but recovered in the subsequent rounds.
Folayang showcased his striking and wushu ability in the second round, but failed to land any decisive blows to his opponent.
Right after the bell for the third round was rung Aoki attempted to take down the Filipino, but was greeted by a flying knee for his efforts.
Seizing the momentum, Folayang was able to pound Aoki into the cage before the referee was finally forced to stop the match in favor of the Filipino at the 44 second mark of the third and final frame.
Aoki’s first loss since 2012 saw his record slip to 39-7, while Folayang improved his slate to 17-5.
Folayang joins heavyweight fighter Brandon Vera as current Filipino ONE Championship title holders.
