Filipina Muay-thai fighter Bomogao joins ONE Championship

Igorot Muay Thai fighter Islay Erika Bomogao, will make her debut in ONE Championship on November 8, a platform where many Igorot MMA athletes have built their reputations. 

Bomogao recently shared this exciting news on her social media, posting a photo of herself in ONE Championship gloves, indicating her readiness to accept the upcoming challenge in this combat sport. Now that she’s close to reaching the pinnacle of Muay Thai, Bomogao can’t hide her excitement.

Bomogao
Photo courtesy: Islay Erika Bomogao/FB
Rico Lucero

“I really dreamed of this opportunity. It wasn’t too long ago when I was just watching Team Lakay back then, and it’s really one of my dreams. Being able to achieve this today and be in this position, I’m very fulfilled,”  Bomogao said.  

Bomogao has achieved the status of the No.1 -45 kg fighter in the International Federation of Muaythai Associations rankings at the age of 23. 

Her accomplishments include winning gold medals at the IFMA World Championship and the Southeast Asian Games, demonstrating her skills and commitment.

Her entry to ONE Championship adds excitement to the surrounding Igorot athletes who have excelled in this space, including teams like Team Lakay and Lions Nation MMA.

“I feel happy, and of course there’s pressure being the first homegrown fighter to represent the Philippines in Muay Thai for ONE Championship,” she said. 

And now, as she begins this new chapter in her career, her team and Igorot supporters wish her the best of luck. 

Bomogao's journey represents the strength of her heritage and serves as an inspiration to many aspiring fighters including her fellow Filipina.

The nation keeps an eye on her as she competes, proudly representing the Igorot community and as well as Filipino athletes on a global stage.

“Making a first impression is very important, especially those who are looking to follow my footsteps into professional Muay Thai. There’s pressure because I want to pave the way for all the Muay Thai fighters in the Philippines.”

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