MMA: Pinoy-Kiwi fighter to feature in ONE’s return to live action after virus hiatus

New Zealand-based Filipino fighter Mark Fairtex Abelardo promised to give newcomer Fabricio Andrade of Brazil a rude welcome when they meet in ONE: No Surrender in Thailand next week.

The card, which will take place in a closed-door setting in Bangkok, will be ONE Championship’s first live event back after announcing resumption of its flagship promotion

“It’s an honor to be on ONE Championship’s returning card amongst many world champions. I feel ready to put on a show, so expect fireworks,” Abelardo said.

His opponent, Andrade, is just 2-2 to start his career.

Abelardo, meanwhile, has a record of 19-7 overall. He got his start on ONE Warrior Series, impressing mixed martial arts legend Rich Franklin enough to earn a multi-figure ONE Championship contract just after two appearances on the reality show.

“Fabricio is a high level striker, having competed mainly in kickboxing and Muay Thai fights. I never look past my opponents so I will not take him lightly regardless of his experience in MMA,” said Abelardo.

“I hope he is ready because I’ll be giving him all I’ve got and more. I want to put on a pace and look to mix things up like I usually do.”

The main event features a rubber match between reigning ONE flyweight Muay Thai world champion Rodtang Jitmuangnon, and the challenger, former ONE Flyweight kickboxing world champion Petchdam Petchyindee Academy.

In the evening’s co-main event, defending ONE Featherweight Muay Thai World Champion Petchmorakot Petchyindee Academy will put his world title on the line against legendary Yodsanklai IWE Fairtex.

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