Eduard Folayang feels he can be a world champion again

MANILA - Former ONE lightweight champion Eduard Folayang, ahead of his upcoming showdown against Amir Khan of Singapore, says his best days are not yet over.

The 34-year-old Folayang lost his lightweight title to Martin Nguyen by a second round knockout in November 2017 in the main event of "ONE: Legends of the World" in Manila.

A year after, Folayang is coming off a dominant win over two previously unbeaten foes: Kharun Atlangeriev and Aziz Pahrudinov.

The Filipino superstar is scheduled to battle Khan for the vacant ONE lightweight title in the co-main event of "ONE: Conquest of Champions" on November 23 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.

"I am so happy for the opportunity to once again be fighting for the world title. As always, I feel motivated and encouraged to do my best. I want to prove to the world that I am not done yet in this sport, and that I can still be world champion," said Folayang.

"Losing the title for the first time, it was a very painful feeling. But in defeat, I have discovered my weaknesses and made efforts to improve certain parts of my game. Now I am ready to showcase my championship form once again."

His opponent, Khan is a Muay Thai specialist and a former Singaporean Muay Thai Champion. Eight of his 11 wins came by way of knockout, but the young contender had also proved in his past fights that he's capable of submitting his foes.

"Amir [Khan] is a great young martial artist. He has shown tremendous growth since his very first ONE Championship bout," Folayang admits.

"I cannot underestimate him because he is younger than I am. This bout is special because it’s taking place in front of my hometown crowd in Manila."

For Folayang, getting to vie for the gold-plated belt once again is also a chance to redeem himself to the same fans and venue where he lost his then world title.

"It also represents a chance for me to redeem myself, because this is the same place I lost the title one year ago. I have worked very hard since then and now the opportunity was once again given to me." — DVM, GMA News