Eric Kelly set to battle Brazilian foe in One PH card in January

Eric Kelly is back after five months of rest. His opponent, on the other hand, had his last fight three years ago.

By Ivan Saldajeno

MAKATI--Eric Kelly has already begun his training for his upcoming fight at One Championship next month.

Kelly confirmed to some reporters on Wednesday night in a pocket press conference organized by Cage Gladiators at the Cheers Sporte Bar that he will take part in the first of four fight cards that One will organize at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay on Jan. 26.

Cage Gladiators is a non-profit organization that is providing support for local MMA fighters financially and training-wise.

Kelly is set to take on Brazilian fighter Rafael Nunes in the said fight, but as early as now, Kelly is trying to be in tiptop share come fight night

"Dumadayo ako sa mga kaibigan kong mga gym at nakikipag-train ako sa mga kapwa kong Filipino fighters," he bared his current training regimen.

The 35-year-old Kelly currently has a 12-4 record, but he lost his last three fights and has yet to enter the cage since August.

On the other hand, Nunes, who will turn 30 on Monday, started his MMA career with 10 straight wins, but that streak was snapped in his One debut, bowing to Koji Ando at One: War of Dragons in 2014. The showdown against Kelly will be his comeback fight after a three-and-a-half-year hiatus.

Meanwhile, Eric Kelly's younger brother Edward is also confirmed to see action at the MOA Arena on Jan. 26.

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