The longest reigning Team Lakay champion has ceased to be a champion after moving out of Brave CF and signing up with ONE Championship to join his team mate in Asia’s biggest mixed martial arts promotion.
In signing with ONE, Loman said: “It’s an overwhelming opportunity, but I’m excited to join my Team Lakay brothers in the biggest martial arts organization in the world. I’m excited to enhance my skills on this platform and showcase my style to millions of viewers across the globe.”
He added: “Of course, fighting in a new promotion and a new environment will be a challenge, but it’s one I’m more than willing to face. I’m ready to show ONE Championship fans the best of Stephen Loman.” Venturing in this new organization is indeed challenging.”
Loman, in his post on Facebook said: “To be part of this great organization (ONE) is truly an opportunity.”
He added: “Nonetheless, this opportunity will enhance my capabilities as a fighter which will make me a true champion.”
He asked his fans to join him “in this new chapter of my MMA career.”
Team Lakay founder and head coach Mark Sangiao, meanwhile, said: “Stephen Loman is one of the best fighters in the Philippines. His all-around skills will be on full display in ONE Championship. I spoke to Stephen and he’s highly motivated right now.”
The Machine, as Sangiao was called during his fighting days added: “He can’t wait to get in the Circle and put on a show. Of course, I’ll be there for him, as well as all of his teammates at Team Lakay, every step of the way.”
Loman carries a 13-2 win-loss slate.
He is considered one of the most exciting fighters in the MiddleEastern MMA promotion when he debuted in Nov. 16, 2018 and won a unanimous decision over Irish fighter Frans Mlambo.
In his last title defense in November 23, 2019, Loman decided Ilias Sanoudakis.
Former ONE bantamweight king Kevin Belingon welcomed his teammate in the mix in what could be the promotions most stocked weight division ruled by Bibiano Fernandes.
Belingon posted: “Welcome to ONE Championship champ Stephen Loman.”
ONE straweight titlist Joshua Pacio also welcomed the former Brave king. The youthful Team Lakay champ said: “His talent deserves more! Excited of what 2021 awaits for this beast. Let’s go brother!”
