“He hasn’t lost a step” - Stephen Loman says age won’t be a factor against Bibiano Fernandes

Stephen Loman doesn’t think Bibiano Fernandes’ age is a factor in their upcoming fight.

Fernandes has something to prove at ONE on Prime Video 4. ‘The Flash’ lost the bantamweight title in his last fight, and some have questioned whether he can bounce back at 42.

When asked about the Brazilian’s age by ONE Championship, Loman had this to say:

“Even if he’s an older fighter, he hasn’t lost a step. I expect that his explosiveness is still there, as well as his striking. I will be especially watching out for his wrestling and obviously, his jiu-jitsu. Those are the things that I need to prepare for. The match will be fought under MMA rules, so I have no problems battling on the feet or on the ground.”

Loman seems to have a polar opposite narrative around his career compared to Fernandes. ‘The Flash’ is a proven champion who could be on the decline, while ‘The Sniper’ is looking for a breakout moment to enter the title shot discussion. Their matchup at ONE on Prime Video 4 could be a passing of the torch.

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Stephen Loman thinks Bibiano Fernandes will use his striking to set up his takedowns

Stephen Loman has an incredible team around him at Team Lakay. With three weeks left until the fight, ‘The Sniper’ is preparing physically and mentally.

While speaking with ONE Championship, the No.5-ranked ONE bantamweight had this to say about Bibiano Fernandes’ potential game plan:

“I expect that he will be trying to keep it on the feet first, then he will use his striking to set up his takedowns, which he usually does to his opponents. He will try to take the fight to the ground, but if I can assert my game, it will be a striking battle.”

Bibiano Fernandes is usually willing to exchange in the striking department, but his grappling has always been a specialty. Meanwhile, Stephen Loman is dangerous on the feet and could prove to be too much for ‘The Flash’ if the fight stays standing.