Filipino contender Stephen Loman feels he's ready to challenge for a world title after beating a former longtime champion in his previous outing. With that, 'The Sniper' believes a date with Fabricio Andrade is on the horizon.
Stephen Loman took out Bibiano Fernandes last November, marking his third victory in as many tries since signing with ONE Championship. Loman told The MMA Superfan about his desire to fight for the belt next, stating:
"Fabricio Andrade did say before that if he wins, I’ll be his first opponent to defend the title. I really think there’s a chance that will happen, if he wins this fight against Lineker. If he wins, and the offer comes, I won’t think twice."
Andrade is scheduled to run it back with John Lineker for the vacant bantamweight title at ONE Fight Night 7 on Prime Video. It's clear that Loman hopes to serve as the winner's first title defense.
Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more
Stephen Loman says wrestling will be John Lineker's key to success against Fabricio Andrade
'Wonder Boy' certainly led the dance on the feet for most of the way in his first meeting with Lineker. Eventually, 'Hands of Stone' resorted to wrestling as a result of getting outstruck throughout the early stages of the fight.
Loman thinks Lineker's path to victory is through wrestling, rather than trying to trade shots with Andrade. He said in the same interview:
“Lineker will use his wrestling again. That’s the way I see him taking the fight. He’ll use his wrestling and try to connect with those looping shots. I think that if Andrade uses his footwork to keep distance, Lineker will need to turn up the pressure so he can get within range to throw those hooks.”
Lineker unquestionably possesses knockout power — look back to his knockout over Bibiano Fernandes for evidence. But Andrade's quickness and distance control presented issues for Lineker in the first match.
Make sure to tune in to ONE Fight Night 7 on February 24 to watch Fabricio Andrade and John Lineker rematch for the vacant bantamweight world title, live from the Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
Meanwhile, the No.3-ranked Stephen Loman is hoping to receive a matchup with the winner of the upcoming world title fight.
Check out Stephen Loman's full conversation with The MMA Superfan below: