Filipino flyweight Danny Kingad couldn’t believe it when he was told he’d be competing for a ONE World Title in his next bout, but now that his big chance has arrived, he’s determined to make it count.
Kingad has impressed in his martial arts career so far, compiling an undefeated 8-0 record to push him into title contention.
Now, the 22-year-old Team Lakay standout will look to become one of ONE Championship’s youngest-ever champions, when he challenges experienced Adriano Moraes for the ONE Flyweight World Title on 10 November at ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD.
When the call came, Kingad admitted he was taken completely by surprise by the news.
“When coach Mark Sangiao revealed that ONE Championship had put me next in line for a shot at the ONE Flyweight World Championship, I was shocked. I was nervous,” he said. Those initial nerves have subsided, and Kingad is ready to step up and take on the toughest tests of his career.
Moraes is a two-time world champion with a wealth of martial arts experience. having dominated previously-undefeated champion Kairat Akhmetov to reclaim his belt at ONE: KINGS OF THE WORLD in August. In addition, the 28-year-old Brazilian has more wins than Kingad has had bouts, with a record of 16-2.
Those credentials initially had Kingad questioning his own, but he quickly shook off any sense of disbelief and doubt, and grew in confidence as he launched into his training.
“I thought to myself, ‘Am I ready?’” he admitted. “I have waited so long for this. Ever since I joined ONE Championship, I had my eyes set on becoming champion. This is what I wanted when I became a martial artist – to be the best in the world.
“Now that it is finally happening and I have this opportunity right in front of me, the feeling of nervousness quickly turned into motivation.”
Kingad has been hard at work training at altitude in Baguio City in the Philippines, preparing himself for the biggest bout of his life. The 22-year-old says he’s ready to step up to championship level and defeat a seasoned, well-rounded champion.
“Although I am prepared for wherever this bout goes, whether it stays on the feet and we battle it out with our striking, or it goes to the ground and I have to deal with his high-level grappling, I will be ready,” he explained.
“Moraes is a beast on the ground, and I know he will be looking to take me down, so my team and I are preparing the best we can for an all-out war. I am making sure that my escapes and submission defence are there.
“My game plan is to definitely stay on the feet and strike with this guy, but if it goes to the ground, I will be ready.”
The Filipino challenger also paid tribute to the champion, saying Moraes “does not have many weaknesses” and that he is “probably the closest to being a complete martial artist”.
Despite respecting Moraes’ skills, Kingad says he’s ready to take advantage of the smallest opening during the bout.
“His striking is on point, his grappling is top-notch, and you really cannot underestimate him for one minute,” he stated. “He is open to counters, and all I have to do is land that one big shot. That is why I am working on my strength and power, so that when I do connect, it is going to be lights out.
“Make no mistake about it, I am going for the knockout. This is going to be the most exciting bout of the year.”
