Stephen Loman sets sights on active 2026 season following extended layoff

Filipino MMA fighter Stephen “The Sniper” Loman is looking ahead to an active 2026 as he prepares to return to competition following an extended absence from the cage.

The former BRAVE Combat Federation bantamweight world champion said the prospect of regular competition has renewed his motivation as he begins training for the coming year.

“I am truly excited for 2026 because it guarantees that I will finally be back doing what I love,” Loman, who rejoined BRAVE Combat Federation last December, said. 

“This opportunity gives me something to look forward to every single day.”

Loman, 30, returned to training at Landslide Martial Arts Training Center, home of Lions Nation MMA, shortly after the holidays. He said a possible return to action by April remains on the table.

The Igorot fighter last competed in September 2023, when he faced former UFC contender John Lineker in a bantamweight title eliminator at ONE Championship. Despite being regarded as one of the division’s top contenders, that bout marked Loman’s final appearance with ONE before his departure from the promotion late last year.

Away from competition, Loman closed 2025 with a major personal milestone after marrying his longtime partner, Sheryl, on December 20 in Baguio City.

With preparations underway, Loman said his focus is on making the most of the year ahead and reestablishing himself in the BRAVE CF bantamweight division.

“I am ready to work, to compete, and to show that I still belong at the top,” he said.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News