By Ivan Saldajeno
MAKATI—Even some fighters from other stables agree that Team Lakay is the top Filipino MMA team right now.
Take Jenel Lausa of Team Capanay for example.
"Bilib ako sa Team Lakay," said Lausa, who is now signed with US-based UFC, during an interview with some sportswriters during a pocket press conference at Hid Burgers at the corner of Gil Puyat, Chino Roces, and Malugay Avenues on Wednesday.
In particular, he further lauded the stable's prized pug.
"Bilib ako kay Eduard Folayang, kasi nag-champion na yun," he cited.
The Concepcion, Iloilo native actually experienced what it is like to take on a member of the Baguio-based club when he joined an MMA event organized by Lakay itself early into his career in 2012. It was in the said fight card that he incurred his first loss, against Joseph Amurao.
Since then, he won six of his last seven matches including his last five.
On the other hand, if not for the fact that Folayang, former champ Honorio Banario, and rising star Geje Eustaquio along with the other Lakay stars are signed with Singaporean outfit One Championship, Lausa would love to see more of them at the UFC octagon.
"Ang problema kasi, ang One FC at UFC, magkaibang liga," the former PXC flyweight holder continued.
Fighters from a major MMA promotion are not allowed to compete at another promotion unless they opt out of their contracts and formally sign with the other outfit.
Lausa had to vacate his PXC belt, which he won over fellow Filipino fighter Crisanto Pipitunge on Jan. 17, in favor for a shot at UFC glory, eventually beating Chinese opponent Yao Zhikui last November in his debut there.
[Related Story: Lausa makes successful UFC debut, beats Chinese foe]
Lausa still has company Lakay-wise as Mark Eddiva, Roldan Sangcha-an, and Dave Galera are signed with UFC as well.
Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno
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