With both fighters carrying something to prove, their fifth encounter at ONE 171: Qatar is set to be an electrifying showdown
Whether Belingon can finally exorcise his demons and score a decisive victory or if Fernandes will once again impose his dominance remains to be seen.
One thing is certain—when Kevin Belingon and Bibiano Fernandes step into the cage, fireworks are guaranteed. Fans will be eagerly watching as these two warriors reignite one of the greatest rivalries in ONE Championship history.
Kevin Belingon’s decision to enlist Stephen Loman for his training camp could prove to be the key to victory. By learning from Loman’s successful game plan against Fernandes and integrating it into his own approach, Belingon is giving himself the best possible chance to succeed.
With a solid training camp, a dedicated team, and an unwavering drive to win, Belingon is ready to step into the Circle and put everything on the line.
The stage is set for an intense battle, and fans eagerly await to see if this strategic partnership will lead to another stunning upset in the bantamweight division.
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Kevin Belingon Confident He Can Still Challenge Bibiano Fernandes at ONE 171: Qatar
A Rivalry Rekindled: Belingon vs. Fernandes V
The storied rivalry between Kevin Belingon and Bibiano Fernandes is set to reach another chapter as they prepare to clash for the fifth time at ONE 171: Qatar on Thursday, February 20.1
Their history together has been marked by intense battles, strategic adjustments, and a constant push for dominance in the bantamweight division.
Set to take place at the magnificent Lusail Sports Arena, this three-round MMA contest carries significant weight for both fighters.
While Fernandes remains one of the most dominant grapplers in ONE Championship history, Belingon is confident that his striking prowess will once again prove to be the deciding factor.
The History: A Decade of Battles
The rivalry between Belingon and Fernandes has spanned nearly a decade, dating back to their first encounter in 2016.
Over four previous fights, they have spent a total of ten grueling rounds inside the cage, showcasing their strengths and revealing their weaknesses.
Fernandes, a former long-reigning bantamweight champion, has been a thorn in Belingon’s side, using his elite-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to control the Filipino striker on the ground.
However, Belingon has had his moments of glory, securing a controversial split-decision victory in 2018 that briefly earned him the title.
Their most recent encounter, which took place six years ago, ended in Fernandes reclaiming the championship via submission.
Now, with both fighters looking to prove their relevance in the division, this bout promises to be another thrilling chapter in their saga.
Kevin Belingon’s Confidence in His Striking
Despite their history, Belingon firmly believes that he still has the tools to defeat Fernandes.2
In an interview with ONE Championship, he stated:
“I’m still the same. I’m still deadly because I keep working on my main weapon, which is my striking. It’s something that I still plan on using, and hopefully, it becomes an effective tool for me.”
Belingon’s striking has always been his biggest asset. Known for his explosive speed, powerful spinning attacks, and relentless pressure, ‘The Silencer’ has made a name for himself as one of the most exciting fighters in the bantamweight division.
With six of his 11 wins under the ONE Championship banner coming via stoppage, the Filipino warrior is eager to showcase that his striking is as sharp as ever.
The Evolution of Kevin Belingon
Since his last bout with Fernandes, Belingon has been working tirelessly to refine his skills.
Training out of the renowned Team Lakay in Baguio City, he has continued to sharpen his striking while also improving his takedown defense and grappling.
One of the criticisms Belingon has faced in previous fights against Fernandes is his ability to handle the Brazilian’s elite ground game.
However, with years of additional training, he feels more prepared than ever to avoid the submissions that have plagued him in the past.
“I’ve been working on my overall game, not just my striking. I know that I need to be ready for everything because Bibiano is a complete fighter,” Belingon noted.
Kevin Belingon: Champion’s Mindset
While Belingon remains confident, Fernandes is not one to be underestimated.3
The Brazilian legend, a multiple-time ONE Bantamweight World Champion, has built his career on exceptional grappling and an ironclad defense.
Fernandes, despite being 44 years old, has continued to train at a high level. His experience, combined with his methodical approach, has made him one of the most successful fighters in ONE Championship history.
His ability to neutralize strikers with takedowns and relentless pressure remains his greatest weapon.
While some may see Fernandes as aging, the veteran fighter has dismissed such notions, stating that he remains just as dangerous as he was in his prime.
Keys to Victory: What Each Fighter Needs to Do
For Belingon, the key to victory is clear—keep the fight standing. He must utilize his speed and movement to avoid Fernandes’ takedowns and punish the Brazilian with powerful strikes.
His spinning back kicks, punches, and aggressive combinations could play a crucial role in dictating the pace of the fight.
On the other hand, Fernandes will likely employ his tried-and-tested strategy: close the distance, drag Belingon to the mat, and look for a submission. If Fernandes can establish control early, he could once again force Belingon into a defensive shell.
The Significance of This Fight
While no championship gold is on the line, this fight is crucial for both competitors. For Belingon, a win over Fernandes would revitalize his career and prove that he is still a top contender in the bantamweight division.
For Fernandes, this bout offers a chance to remind everyone that he is still a dominant force in MMA. A victory would reinforce his legacy and possibly set him up for another run at the bantamweight title.
Given their history, fans can expect another intense battle filled with high-level exchanges. Belingon’s striking will always be a threat, but the question remains whether he can keep the fight standing long enough to secure a finish.
Fernandes, on the other hand, will be looking to implement his game plan early, avoiding unnecessary damage while setting up takedowns. If he can get Belingon to the ground, it could be another long night for ‘The Silencer.’
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Kevin Belingon: Skill Set Evolution
As a seasoned fighter, Belingon is no stranger to adapting his style. Over the years, he has evolved from being a pure striker to a more well-rounded martial artist.
Training with Loman allows him to fine-tune his grappling defense while capitalizing on his powerful striking ability.
With the rise of new contenders in the division, Belingon knows that staying ahead requires constant improvement.
Working with Loman provides him with fresh perspectives and an opportunity to sharpen his skills against a younger, hungry competitor who has already proven his mettle.
The Road to Redemption
For Belingon, this fight is not just about another win—it’s about redemption. Having previously faced setbacks in his career, including losses to Fernandes, he views this bout as an opportunity to prove that he still belongs among the elite.
A victory over Fernandes would not only solidify his legacy but also position him for another potential title shot.
The partnership with Loman adds an extra layer of motivation. Seeing his teammate rise through the ranks serves as inspiration for Belingon to reclaim his former glory.
The training camp is not just about preparing physically but also about reigniting the fire that made him a champion in the first place.
Kevin Belingon: Training Regimen and Preparation
Belingon’s preparation with Loman consists of a well-rounded regimen, including intense sparring sessions, grappling drills, and strategic game planning.
The focus has been on:
- Takedown Defense: Ensuring that he can stay on his feet and avoid Fernandes’ ground control.
- Striking Precision: Utilizing his signature explosive striking to keep the fight standing and land significant blows.
- Cardio and Endurance: Maintaining a high pace throughout the fight to avoid fatigue.
- Fight IQ: Learning from Loman’s experience to make real-time adjustments during the bout.
This comprehensive approach ensures that Belingon is prepared for any situation that arises in the cage.
A Team Effort at Lions Nation MMA
Lions Nation MMA has been instrumental in shaping both Belingon and Loman into world-class fighters.
The gym’s culture of excellence and mutual support plays a crucial role in their success. Training alongside high-caliber teammates allows them to push their limits and refine their skills.
Under the guidance of experienced coaches, the team continuously develops new strategies to keep their fighters ahead of the competition. The collective effort at Lions Nation MMA is evident in Loman’s recent success and Belingon’s renewed drive.
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Mental Preparation and Confidence
Beyond physical preparation, Belingon is also focusing on his mental game. MMA is as much a psychological battle as it is a physical one, and having the right mindset can make all the difference.
Training with Loman has reinforced Belingon’s confidence, reminding him that he has the tools to succeed.
Visualizing victory, staying composed under pressure, and embracing the challenge ahead are all part of Belingon’s approach. He knows that stepping into the Circle with a clear and focused mind will be just as crucial as his physical readiness.
This upcoming bout is a pivotal moment in Belingon’s career. A win against Fernandes would reestablish him as a top contender and potentially open the door for a future title shot. More importantly, it would demonstrate his ability to adapt, evolve, and overcome challenges.
For Loman, assisting Belingon in this journey strengthens his own position within the division. As he continues his rise, being part of Belingon’s preparation reinforces his own skills and keeps him sharp for future competition.
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