Ready to fight Hamza Kooheji next – In Conversation With Brave CF Bantamweight Champion Stephen Loman

BRAVE 9: THE KINGDOM OF CHAMPIONS WAS HISTORIC, PERIOD. Not only was it the biggest event in the Brave Combat Federation’s history but it also saw the rise of two new champions. One among this was Philippines’ Stephen Loman.

Aptly nicknamed ‘The Kid’, Loman came into his fight against Gurdarshan Mangat as an underdog and flew back home with gold around his waist.

At just 21, it was a big moment, not only for Loman, but for the Philippines as a whole.

Stephen Loman: It feels great and I'm very happy because even at this early age, I became a champion and I look forward to defend my belt. This is very important for me because as a cage fighter, to get the belt is our goal. And most importantly, my win will serve as an inspiration to my team mates and other Filipino fighters to fight for our country. MMA is still young in the Philippines but I hope it will continue to grow bigger, to inspire other young MMA athletes too.

Keeping aside the magnitude of his win, another impressive thing about Loman’s win was the way in which he executed it. The first round TKO victory came after a chess game with Mangat where Loman showcased some impressive footwork.

Stephen Loman: Footwork has always been a part of my game plan ever since.  It helps me set up my offense and defense, and I was able to properly execute my striking which toppled him down.

Loman is currently undefeated in Brave Combat Federation and boasts a professional record of 10-2 to his name. And considering how well he overcame the challenge posed by Mangat, there is a sense of anticipation among the fans when it comes to seeing Loman fight again.

Bahrain’s Hamza Kooheji is a potential contender for the title. Hamza had secured a win on the Brave 9 card against Mohammed Farhad and went on to ask for a title shot as well. When asked about a potential fight with Hamza, Loman said that he is open and is willing to fight when the promotion asks him to fight.

Stephen Loman: I will fight whoever the number one contender is.  As of this moment,  Kooheji has a three fight winning streak. He deserves to be a contender and I am willing to fight him in my first defense. [When he will fight again?] This I leave the decision to Brave.

The willingness to fight anyone, anywhere and anytime: what more can a promotion ask from its champion?

Nevertheless, it’s an exciting time for the sport in the Philippines and the 21-year-old along with his Team Lakay teammates are spearheading the movement.