Former ONE Featherweight World Champion Honorio “The Rock” Banario is hell-bent on defeating Japanese legend Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki at ONE: CENTURY Part II on 13 October.
The two athletes meet in the co-main event of the evening show at the historic Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, Japan.
Victory has evaded Banario lately. The Filipino dropped two-straight matches, first against American star Lowen Tynanes and then against South Korean “Crazy Dog” Dae Sung Park.
But instead of sulking, “The Rock” chooses to take each experience as a lesson.
That said, Banario thinks he will be well-prepared for Aoki as the two battle it out in front of the Japanese athlete’s home crowd.
"[This] will be an amazing match. We all know he’s a legend in the sport and he’s very skilled,” Banario said.
“We’re both hungry for this, but I believe I’m hungrier.”
Banario’s resolve will certainly be put to the test as he takes on one of the most successful grapplers of Asian mixed martial arts.
“The Rock” knows exactly what to expect, and he is hopeful that hard work – alongside Team Lakay’s meticulous preparation – will be enough to pull off the upset.
“Obviously, he wants to bring this match to the ground. That’s why I have to be at my best wherever this match goes. My team and I are doing everything to have that covered,” Banario shared.
“I believe that every fighter has holes in their game. We’ve studied his and we have prepared a good game plan. Now my job on 13 October is to execute it perfectly.”
The 29-year-old Mankayan City native knows that a win would put him back on track, so he plans to take this opportunity seriously.
“I just want to prove that I am still here. I’m still determined to win. I have a lot of wonderful plans for next year so that’s why it’s important to end 2019 with a win,” Banario said.
“At the same time, I want to bring honor and glory to my country.”
Can Banario climb to the top of the ONE lightweight division? Find out on 13 October at ONE: CENTURY in Tokyo, Japan.
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