Igorot fighter upsets Chinese foe in impressive UFC debut

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Young Igorot pride Mark Eddiva outpointed his Chinese foe to mark an impressive Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) debut at The Venetian Macao’s Cotai Arena in Macau last March 1.

Eddiva, representing Team Lakay which is based in this city, got the nod of the three judges who gave him a 30-27 victory against previously unbeaten Jumabieke Tuerxun.

The first-ever homegrown Filipino MMA fighter to see action in the UFC octagon had a great start, connecting with a kick to Tuerxun’s head then followed it up with a strong leg kick that stunned his foe.

Eddiva, a former two-time Southeast Asian Games and World Wushu Championship gold medalist, put pressure on Tuerxun on the ground in first and second rounds.

Although himself also undefeated in five fights, the 28-year-old Eddiva entered the bout as a heavy underdog, with Tuerxun sporting a better record at 17-0.

But Eddiva’s vast experience in international Sanshou, a Chinese combat sport, spelled the difference throughout the fight.

Eddiva continued to pressure Tuerxun while unleashing a series of knees to the head that appeared to tire the Chinese.

The Filipino fighter, who traces his roots in Sadanga, Mountain Province, finished the second round with a beautiful two-leg takedown.

But the 27-year-old Tuerxun came back strong later in third canto and almost secured a triangle choke. Eddiva, however, was successful in getting back on his feet.

Eddiva’s impressive UFC debut comes despite the fighter being inactive for three years – his last outing being a submission victory over Alex Lee in the Legend FC Championship in January 2011.

Eddiva has not fought until the UFC signed him for the March 1 card.