Stephen Loman battles John Lineker in One debut

Stephen Loman will get some US television airtime in his One Championship debut.

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Stephen Loman confirmed on Monday that his One Championship debut will happen at One on TNT IV on April 29.

Loman is slated to face Brazilian top contender John Lineker in the said event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium to be televised in the United States on TNT.

"I can actually say, I was a bit surprised. But at the same time, I’m very happy. It’s a chance for me to fight the best, which is what I wanted," Loman said.

The stakes could be high in the said match as a win by Loman against Lineker, the current ranked number one bantamweight, could put him at a quick world title shot a few months after letting go of his Brave bantamweight belt.

However, Loman said that he is not thinking about challenging Bibiano Fernandes for the One bantamweight title at the moment.

“Right now, I’m not trying to go out there and say I’m the best in the division. I’m the new guy, a champion coming from a different organization, so I have a lot to prove. I don’t know where I rank currently, but we’ll see soon enough,” said Loman.

But he can do some payback on behalf of Team Lakay comrade Kevin Belingon, who lost to Lineker last October.

Speaking of Team Lakay, Loman said that he has heard good feedback from his stablemates about One.

“All my teammates told me great things about ONE Championship. They say competing in this organization is good. The promotion takes very good care of its fighters, and is very generous, especially for good performances,” he further said.

Following the raves, Loman decided to take his talents to One after a stellar stint at Brave.

“Obviously, the decision to join ONE Championship was one I thought about for a long time. It’s the largest martial arts organization in the world. I’m a fighter, and I’m seeking the toughest challenges. I want to test myself against the best. ONE Championship has the best fighters,” said Loman. “I love how ONE promotes its fighters, really giving them time and attention on the biggest global stage. I am excited to debut as a ONE athlete.”

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