“We’re really grinding” - Stephen Loman spars with world champions in preparation for Bibiano Fernandes

'The Sniper' Stephen Loman is looking to extend his brilliant 10-fight win streak. However, former bantamweight king Bibiano Fernandes is standing in his way. The two fighters have been booked for a high-stakes showdown at ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18.

The Filipino fighter is training tirelessly at Team Lakay to prepare for this match. Facing a former world champion is a formidable task to overcome, but in the gym, Loman is training with a relentless attitude.

In an interview with The MMA Super-Fan, Stephen Loman explained:

"I regularly spar with Kuya Kevin [Belingon], Kuya Geje [Eustaquio], and Joshua [Pacio], and I can say that our sparring sessions are some of the hardest we do. We’re really grinding in preparation for my fight against Bibiano."

The 30-year-old athlete added that they are also drilling with Pacio to get him ready to defend his world title at ONE 164 on December 3 against American wrestler Jarred Brooks. Loman continued:

"Not only that, I’m also helping them especially Joshua for his fight against Jarred Brooks."

See the full interview with Stephen Loman below:

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Lito Adiwang has high praise for Stephen Loman

To prepare to face former ONE bantamweight world champion Bibiano Fernandes, the Brazilian's opponents must get ready with the best in the world. According to his Team Lakay training partners, Loman has the skills and training to excel in this clash.

In an interview with ONE Championship, 'Thunder Kid' Lito Adiwang discussed Loman. Adiwang expressed high praise for 'The Sniper', saying:

“For me, it’s how he’s a complete fighter. Most people would say Team Lakay fighters are strikers but Stephen Loman is the complete package. That makes him really special. He can play on the ground, he can outwrestle you and as we’ve seen, he can knock you out too. That’s what makes him special.”

The Filipino also added that with a win over Fernandes, Loman deserves the next shot at the bantamweight throne:

“[Stephen] really rose up the rankings fast. If he can win one more fight, I think he’ll face either the top contender or the champion, especially if he gets Bibiano [Fernandes] next. If he gets Bibiano and he beats him, I think he deserves a shot... [I] truly think he’s close to [fighting for] the belt.”

Before he can fight for ONE gold, Stephen Loman must prove himself against MMA veteran Bibiano Fernandes. The crucial matchup goes down at ONE on Prime Video 4 on November 18.