“All good things must come to an end,” says former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard Folayang on his departure from Team Lakay.
Earlier today, Eduard Folayang announced that he will be parting ways with Team Lakay after 16 years.
“For the last 16 years of my professional career as a mixed martial artist, I was in the company of brave and talented individuals in Team Lakay,” the former ONE Lightweight World Champion wrote in a Facebook post.
“Words will not suffice to aptly impart how grateful I am for our camaraderie that has led to our achievements and victories inside the Circle, as well as the heartbreaks that have driven us to keep going in pursuit of our ultimate goal. I will forever cherish every moment like a precious treasure.
Throughout Folayang’s career, he has built up a reputation as one of the Philippines’ best martial artists — a reputation he developed alongside Team Lakay and coach Mark Sangiao.
Now, 16 years later, he is bidding the team goodbye.
On to a new chapter
“But as the oft saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Sadly, and with a heavy heart, my journey with Team Lakay has reached its final stretch,” Folayang wrote in his post.
However, even as the 39-year-old moves on from Team Lakay, he has made it rather clear that he is not yet done with the sport.
“The profession I have chosen requires me to learn, evolve, and grow. In order for me to achieve this, I must step out of my comfort zone and discover new ways to foster my development as a martial artist,” Folayang expressed.
Recently, the former champion has hit a dip in his career, having lost five straight MMA matches. With this announcement, it seems Eduard Folayang is hoping to get back into stride by searching for new opportunities to grow as an athlete.
Following his announcement, Team Lakay also shared a post on Facebook, thanking Folayang for the past 16 years.
“Champ Eduard, you are the epitome of what a GREAT WARRIOR is. You are and forever will be the face of Philippine MMA. You have motivated athletes around you and inspired the younger generation. From Team Lakay Family, we wish you all the best for what’s ahead of you,” Team Lakay wrote.
Now as Eduard Folayang heads into a new chapter of his career, no matter what the road has ahead of him, indeed, he will remain the face of Philippine MMA.
Banner images from Team Lakay on Facebook.
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