Jean Claude Saclag, an Igorot fighter, announced his presence in ONE Championship with a decisive victory over Lee Jun Young at ONE Friday Fights 78. The bout, held at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, showcased Saclag's striking prowess and set the stage for his MMA career.
Saclag's Explosive Victory
Saclag, a three-time SEA Games gold medallist, delivered a spectacular performance by finishing Lee Jun Young in the first round. The fight reached its climax at the 1:34 mark when Saclag executed a powerful overhand right that rocked Lee. This was followed by a relentless barrage of punches, leading to a TKO finish.
The Filipino fighter's victory is particularly notable as it highlights his transition from a successful kickboxing and Wushu career to MMA. Saclag's striking ability was evident from the start, with a precise side kick to Lee's face that set the tone for the fight. Despite Lee's confidence in striking, it proved to be his undoing, as Saclag's precise punches secured the win.
Impact on Team Lakay and ONE Championship
This win adds another promising fighter to Team Lakay's roster in ONE Championship. Saclag's success on this platform is significant, following the footsteps of his teammate Carlo Bumina-ang, who earned a $100,000 contract with the main roster after an impressive performance in the ONE Friday Fights series.
Saclag's victory is not just a personal achievement but also a boost for Team Lakay's presence in the ONE Championship circuit. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in Saclag's career, building on his extensive background in regional and world tournaments. His accolades include a gold medal at the Wushu World Championships and a silver at the Asian Games.
Upcoming ONE Championship Event
Jean Claude Saclag's performance sets the stage for more exciting matchups in ONE Championship. Notably, another Igorot fighter, Danny Kingad, is set to face Adriano Moraes in a highly anticipated rematch at ONE 169 on November 8. Kingad, known for his impressive skills and previous performances, will look to avenge his prior loss and make a significant impact in the flyweight division.
Looking Ahead
Jean Claude Saclag's impressive debut is a strong indicator of his potential in ONE Championship. His seamless transition from kickboxing and Wushu to MMA demonstrates his versatility and skill. As he continues to build on this momentum, Saclag is poised to become a significant player in the mixed martial arts world. The excitement surrounding his future fights, including Kingad's upcoming rematch, and the growing presence of Igorot fighters in ONE Championship, adds to the anticipation of what's next for these talented athletes.
