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Brandon Vera confident of a successful title defense


MANILA - Brandon Vera is confident that the ONE heavyweight title is staying in the Philippines.

Vera, who holds the mentioned gold-plated strap, is set to defend his title against Mauro Cerilli in the main event of "ONE: Conquest of Champions" on November 23 at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

He's been away from the cage since December 2016 when he successfully defended his crown against Hideki Sekine in the main event of "ONE: Age of Domination".

Despite the layoff, the "The Truth" says an improved and better version of him will emerge in the upcoming title showdown.

"It is an honor to be your champion, Philippines. I’ve been away for a while, almost two years, but don’t think for a second that I haven’t been training and keeping sharp," said Vera.

"I’m stronger, faster, smarter, and better now than ever before. My team has made sure that I will be at my best by the time I step back into the ONE cage."

Vera had spent his time co-starring in a local movie during his time away from mixed martial arts.

And while being an actor is something he's looking forward to when it is time to call it a day from being a professional prizefighter, Vera says being locked inside the cage is where he's at home at the moment.

"I really missed this and I am excited to perform in front of you all next Friday night. The belt is going to stay in the Philippines," said Vera.

Cerilli, meanwhile, says he came to the Philippines on a mission to snatch the ONE heavyweight world title.

"Brandon [Vera] is a great champion, but he’s lost his edge. I am here to claim the ONE Heavyweight World Championship," counters Cerilli.

And while Cerilli has nothing but praise for Vera, he feels that the 41-year-old Filipino World Champion is past his best at this point of his career.

"When I step into the cage on 23 November, I will be in the best shape of my career and I’m looking to score the upset." — DVM, GMA News

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