It’s the end of an era: Filipino mixed-martial arts (MMA) star Eduard Folayang has announced that he is leaving Team Lakay, the Baguio City-based collective he has been with for nearly 20 years.
Folayang, the former three-time ONE Lightweight World Champion, wrote a heartfelt Facebook post where he announced his departure from the team and thanked them for their time together.
“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. 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 on Facebook.
The MMA champion explained that he wanted to step out of his comfort zone before he retires as an athlete.
“I believe there are still a few things I must accomplish in what remains in my active years as an athlete. 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,” he said.
Folayang thanked Team Lakay and its founder, Mark Sangiao, and wished them the best.
“I extend my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to Team Lakay, each athlete, coaches and partners who became part of all our victories and learnings along our journey. I wish no less than the best for Coach Mark Sangiao and everyone under his wing. This is not a goodbye, but so long for now,” he said.
Folayang marks one of quite a few departures from Team Lakay, considered the Philippines’ premiere martial arts collective. ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua Pacio also announced he was leaving his gym just three days ago, along with Kevin Belingon and Honorio Banario.
Despite the string of high-profile exits, it seems that Team Lakay and Folayang parted on good terms.
“With a heavy and yet hopeful heart, we would like to update all of our fans and supporters that Team Lakay and Eduard ‘The Landslide’ Folayang [have] now cordially parted ways. 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. Thank you,” the team wrote on its Facebook page.
