“If the belt wants me back, I'll take it back” - Bibiano Fernandes on trying to reclaim bantamweight gold

Former ONE bantamweight world champion Bibiano Fernandes is in no rush to get back into the world title picture. After losing his title to 'Hands of Stone' John Lineker earlier this year, the Brazilian is taking it one fight at a time.

He explained his attitude while speaking in an interview with ONE Championship:

"Right now, I’m training and working. If the belt wants me back, I'll take it back. And I think [the belt] likes me a lot. He had several opportunities to leave me, but everyone knows what happened. The belt doesn't want to let go of me, it likes me. And if he wants me back, I'll get him back."

'The Flash' is extremely proud of his legacy in ONE Championship:

“I was the most dominant champion in the ONE Championship. I defended the belt several times, while others who won the title in the division failed to do the same. I defended the belt 11 times... I was the most dominant fighter there ever was in the ONE Championship.”

Fernandes will begin his journey back into the world title picture when he faces 'The Sniper' Stephen Loman at ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18 (US primetime). The fight can be enjoyed live and is free for all Amazon Prime Video subscribers in North America.

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Bibiano Fernandes discusses overcoming Stephen Loman

Fighting the No.5-ranked Stephen Loman will be a huge challenge for Bibiano Fernandes. The Filipino bantamweight is a dangerous fighter in every area. When breaking down the match, 'The Flash' was very complimentary of his opponent:

“Stephen Loman is a great athlete. He’s in great physical shape, he’s a fighter who hits and moves all the time. He kicks a lot, throws overhands with his left hand, and moves a lot in the cage. He’s an excellent fighter."

However, the 42-year-old stated that he believes he is simply a better fighter and more experienced. Bibiano Fernandes also added:

"I’m going to test his grappling, his wrestling, and his striking. I’m sure I’ll have a good fight against him. If he messes up, I’ll finish him.”