Toughest of the tough vie in Mano-Mano

Only a few good men get to take centerstage in the first Mano-Mano challenge, a full-contact martial arts competition, slated Dec. 27 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

More than 200 fighters from various martial arts clubs all over the country have registered for the martial arts extravaganza that features the best in stand-up fighting.

The organizing CEMG put them under a very stringent screening and trimmed the number of 24 fighters who were chosen for their excellent fight credentials.

Eight players will battle it out for the crown in each of the weight categories: lightweight (62 kgs and below), mediumweight (63-71 kgs) and heavyweight (72 kgs). For one to become champion, he would have to beat three different fighters in one night.

Also lined up for the event are special bouts that will feature legendary masters, exhibition on various self-defense techniques and special performance by celebrity guests.

Due to the huge turnout of registration for the first Mano-Mano, CEMG managing director Ed Dames said he would conduct regional elimination bouts next year to screen the best fighters that will represent their respective clubs to the national Mano-Mano championships.

"Mano-Mano is going to be the country’s biggest martial arts league. We want to build a career path for hundreds of thousands of serious martial art practitioners in the country and most of them, for sure, will give the country pride in international competitions," said Dames.

Mano-Mano is patterned after Japan’s K-1, a professional stand-up fighting competition that has gained large following in Asia, America and Europe.

Different martial arts disciplines are represented in Mano-Mano, each one seeking a cross-competition to further enhance its style and prove its effectiveness.

Mercito Gesta, a young fighter from Manila, is representing boxing. Gesta is slowly making a name in professional boxing as proven by his unblemished 18-win record.

While he’s undoubtedly a force to contend with in boxing, he has to polish his kicking abilities as he will be up against veteran and undefeated muay thai fighter in James Visaya from Baguio City’s Way of the Champion.

Visaya is an exciting and emotional fighter, which he always demonstrates during his fights. He shouts, taunts his opponent, and he’s always on the move.

The Gesta-Visaya bout is definitely something to watch out for.