MANILA, Philippines - Eric “The Natural” Kelly hopes to emerge from the shadow of multi-titled Eduard Folayang as he aims for another quick win over Brad Terrey of Thailand’s Phuket Top Team in the Universal Reality Combat Championship-Colt 45 XXII dubbed “Dekada” on Dec. 1 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
While he used to play second fiddle in several big fights here and abroad, Kelly is also longing to become the star of the show someday, a privilege normally accorded to established stars like Folayang.
Since he will be sharing the limelight with Folayang in the coming blue ribbon event – the highlight of URCC’s 10th anniversary – the 5-foot-7 Kelly is as determined to win soundly and swiftly to prove he belongs in the top class.
Kelly boasts of an immaculate 8-0 record highlighted by one knockout and six submissions.
Like in his first international fight against undefeated Mitch Chilson last year, his third and latest win was also spectacular – a technical knockout (TKO) win over Jens Pulver last August.
But it won’t be easy for Kelly this time since Terrey is likely to use his size and excellent ground game to combat his striking skills.
Folayang, on the other hand, goes for his 13th win against American Lowen Tynanes in the “Super fight”.
URCC will also showcase some of the rising stars in the 10-fight event presented by Colt 45 and sponsored by Xplay Online Games, NBA2K13, Anzahl, Solar Sports, Chris Sports, VRP Medical Center. Tickets are now available at SM Tickets (470-2222). Action starts at 8 p.m.
Two championship fights, including the showdown between Jessie Raffols of D’Elements and Baguio Top Team’s Keiff Mangusan in the bantamweight, also await MMA fans.