YawYan ArDigma forms elite MMA team

CEBU, Philippines - After nearly a decade of careful planning and thorough consideration, YawYan ArDigma Martial Arts Federation, Inc. CEO/Founder Benigno "Master Ekin" R. Caniga, Jr. has finally assembled an elite fighting force of mixed martial artists.

To be known as the YawYan ArDigma Cebu Top Team, Caniga said he hopes to bring MMA in Cebu to a higher level with this daring move.

"I'm doing this to give MMA in Cebu a new breadth and dimension. It is really my ardent desire to put Cebu in the MMA mainstream. It's been eight years already since I conceptualized this idea and I'm very proud and happy that has now come into fruition," said Master Ekin in a press conference the other night at the YawYawn Ardigma Headquarters.

"This elite squad is composed of MMA warriors who really have talent and fighting ability. They are always ready to show what they are made of and what they are capable of doing inside the fight arena," he added.

The initial members of YawYaw ArDigma Cebu Top Team include Roel Rosauro, Lando Nacua, Geronimo Etac, Lemuel Maglinte, Renan Noblefranca, Keith Acapulco, Slotty Avila and Chris Thompson-Brooks of England.

"They are professional fighters who will represent Cebu in a series of MMA tournaments this year. Of course, to be part of the team, they have to undergo an extensive training regimen. They also have to instill discipline, dedication and diligence in themselves. That's what matters most," stressed Master Ekin.

The Cebu Top Team will have their baptism of fire during an MMA card presented by Soma Kickboxing Club on June 30 at the Mandaue City Cultural and Sports Complex.

Afterwhich, they will strut their wares in the keenly-awaited sixth installment of the Ground and Pound series billed as "Invincible" on July 14 at the Cebu Coliseum. — EBV (FREEMAN)