Estaquio clashes with Kazakh wrestler in ONE Indonesia card

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines’ Geje Estaquio is set to headline another showpiece for ONE Championship this September.

Estaquio, a wushu practitioner out of the famed Team Lakay stable, is set to take on Kazakhstan’s Kairat Akhmetov in the card set at the Jakarta Convention Centre in the Indonesian capital, the promotion announced Wednesday.

“This is a huge bout against a former world champion, it is very important to me,” the 9-5-0 Estaquio said.  “I will showcase my best in this bout and take home the win for the Philippines.”

The 28-year-old fighter from Baguio City is riding on the momentum of a victorious stand against Anatpong Bunrad, whom he beat via split decision in the “Dynasty of Heroes” skirmish in Singapore.

This is Estaquio’s second main event appearance. The spotlight first beamed at him when he took on Adriano Moraes for the vacant Flyweight throne in Cambodia almost three years ago.

Moraes was Akhmetov’s latest tormentor. The two hacked it out for the unification of the division strap in Macau earlier this month.

A fast turnaround awaits Akhmetov, who said he is already looking forward to take on the Filipino.

“I am excited to get back in the cage and compete. Defeat is part of this game, the important thing is to come back better,” the 23-1-0 the veteran wrestler said.

“Eustaquio is one of the best competitors in the division and a victory over him will mean a lot. I have one goal, and that is to get back my title. I will take care of anyone who stands in my way,” he added.

“Akhmetov is a world-class martial artist and I can’t wait to test my skills against him. When the cage door closes, it’s time for battle. I will make sure to come well prepared,” the striker Estaquio offered.

The two fighters lock horns on the card titled “Total Victory” on September 16. — Denison Rey A. Dalupang