Folayang, Kelly face foreign rivals

MANILA, Philippines - Eduard Folayang and Eric Kelly, two of the biggest names in local mixed martial arts (MMA), try to live up to the hype as they slug it out with foreign rivals in the Universal Reality Combat Championship-Colt 45 XXII dubbed “Dekada” today, starting at 8 p.m., at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Folayang, the country’s top MMA fighter, battles American Lowen Tynanes in a “Superfight” of the event while Kelly goes for his ninth win in row against Brad Terrey of Thailand’s Phuket Top Team.

The 10-fight affair at the newest entertainment hub is the highlight of URCC’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

“It’s going to be a night to remember since the fight will be held at MOA and the fighters are the best in their divisions,” said URCC founder and president Alvin Aguilar. “Expect a lot of fireworks.”

Both Folayang and Kelly are expected to rely much on their experience as they bid to end their season with a bang in the event backed by Xplay, Anzahl, Solar Sports, Chris Sports, VRP Medical Center.

Folayang, however, is hard-pressed to produce another quick win against an American rival, who is the reigning lightweight champion of the Hawaii-based Destiny MMA promotion.

Kelly will also have his hands full against his taller rival who is likely to use grappling skills to counter his striking which the Filipino used in scoring a TKO win over former UFC lightweight champion Jens Pulver.

Others seeing action are Alvin Ramirez, Red Romero and Froilan Sarenas who are all aching to prove their worth. 

Sarenas is out to defend his middleweight crown against Rodrigo Praxedes of Phuket Top Team while Ramirez battles Spartan Sumogat in pinweight tussle.

Tickets  are available at SM (470-2222).