Penn, Lamas upbeat on headlining UFC Manila card

MANILA, Philippines – If you ask BJ Penn, the October fight with Ricardo Lamas is more than a highly publicized return to the octagon.

It's rekindling the love for the sport that has taught Penn a lot.

"I'm just out there making  an honest living," he told reporters during UFC Fight Night Manila's press conference at Conrad Hotel on Wednesday. 

"It has [evolved] so much ... It's just exciting to be a part of it," the 37-year-old former lightweight and welterweight champion said. 

Penn, who took a break FROM MMA in 2014, will get the top-billing of when the UFC returns here onOctober 15. He said that what makes his return extra special is the fact that he's the only one hunting for a third world title.

"I'm very excited. I'm at 145 (pounds) and I'm gogin to climb the (division) ladder. I got a great test in front of me," he added.

The Hilo, Hawaii-native Penn is slated to take on American Ricardo Lamas. They both hold 16 wins each. The latter has only been defeated five times, while the returning veteran, have lost 10 matches.

Meanwhile, the younger Lamas is simply enjoying the fact that he's taking on someone with the pedigree of a legend.

"[This] means a lot. There's few opportunities to stop guys like BJ's caliber," he said. "It's some of the momories I'm going to be able to pass on and I look forward to it."

Penn, who has fought in 28 matches, has taken on top-tier names like George St. Pierre and Nick Diaz to name some.

Lamas, for his part, is currently fourth in the featherweight rankings. 

Joining the two fighters in promoting the card was none other than the "Filipino Wrecking Machine," Mark Munoz. As if it wasn't enough to pump the local media and some fans in attendance, Filipina UFC octagon girl Red dela Cruz also graced the event.