Kevin Belingon 'motivated by pressure' ahead of ONE title defense

MANILA, Philippines – Team Lakay's Kevin Belingon is set to make his first ONE bantamweight title defense in Japan during the ONE: New Era card on March 31.

Facing a familiar opponent, Belingon will be defending his belt against Brazilian Bibiano Fernandes. 

The fighters have already faced each other two times, with both coming away with one win each to his name.

This third installment will serve as a tie-breaker to settle the score between the rivals.

Despite his first-ever title defense being against a fierce contender, Belingon is far from letting the pressure get to him.

"Normal naman na may pressure pero sa akin, focus pa rin ako sa training at sa game plan namin," the reigning champion said.

"Yung pressure, mawawala naman yan pag sa laban na. Kino-convert ko na lang yung pressure sa motivation," he added.

Belingon-Fernandes III will also be the third title defense fight for Team Lakay this year. 

In their earlier fights this year, Belingon's teammates Joshua Pacio and Geje Eustaquio lost their titles to the challengers.

But the Ifugao native doesn't pay this any mind, remaining positive before his bout.

"One hundred percent parin na confident ako para sa laban namin. I believe na kaya kong talunin ulit si Bibiano," Belingon said.

And with their previous fight ending in a split decision in Belingon's favor, the Filipino wants to win more convincingly this time.

"Gusto ko manalo sa malinis na paraan. Kung may opportunity na ma-knockout siya, gawin natin yun," Belingon said.