Loman decks Russian foe

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino Stephen Loman bared his strong title intention as he knocked out Russian veteran Yusup Saadulaev in the first round in his promotional debut in ONE: Winter Warriors II at the Sigapore Indoor Stadium Friday.

Loman, a former Brave Combat Federation bantamweight titlist, landed a jarring left straight to Saadulaev’s jaw to send the latter to the canvas and seal the sensational knockout win 4:09 minutes into the opening round.

It was Loman’s ninth straight win and 15th overall against two losses that rightfully put him in contention for a shot at the division crown.

Saadulaev, the former No. 3 bantamweight, fell to 20-6-1.

Another Philippine bet, Jhanlo Mark Sangiao, debuted in ONE with a bang after he forced Paul Lumihi of Indonesia to tap out 1:41 minutes into the first round of their lightweight duel.

It was the 19-year-old Sangiao’s fourth win in a row but this last one was extra special as he won it on a bigger stage.

The pair of wins made up for the couple of defeats by flyweight Danny Kingad, who suffered a unanimous decision defeat at the hands of Kairat Akhmetov of Kazakhstan, and bantamweight Kevin Belingon, who was knocked out in the second round by Kwon Won Il of South Korea.