Jhanlo “The Machine” Sangiao acknowledged that he still has a long way to go before becoming the new face of Team Lakay.
However, he remains focused on inching closer to that level, with his upcoming fight against Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu at ONE Fight Night 13: Allazov vs. Grigorian in Bangkok, Thailand on August 5.
“Nagte-training lang ako at ine-enjoy ko lang ito. Ipapakita ko kung ano yung kaya ko sa loob ng Circle. Yun lang naman yung goal ko eh,” said the bantamweight rising star.
Sangiao's potential as the torchbearer for Team Lakay was no surprise, considering the changes the stable has undergone in recent months.
At only 21 years old, he leads the new generation of Igorot warriors, boasting an undefeated record in three fights, including an impressive first-round submission win over Matias Farinelli with a kneebar in just 58 seconds at ONE Fight Night 9: Nong-O vs. Haggerty last April.
What makes Sangiao even more dangerous is the renewed spirit within the camp, as his teammate Carlos Alvarez secured a second-round submission victory over Sadegh Ghasemi at ONE Friday Fights 25, indicating a positive shift in their favor.
“Medyo nae-excite ako kasi nanalo yung isang teammate namin, si Carlos. Naha-hype na rin ako na lumaban ulit,” he said.
“Nakakatulong din na puro bago ang sparring partners ko kaya energized lahat. Mas focused kami ngayon sa gameplan,” Sangiao added.
While Jhanlo may not be the leader of the pack yet, he emphasizes the team's mutual support, sharing advice and knowledge to help each other succeed.
“Sa amin naman, tulungan lang talaga ang bawat isa. Kung sino ang may kailangan ng advice, shine-share namin yung alam namin. Nandyan pa rin naman si papa na matagal na sa sport na ito at best coach para sa akin, so ako ipapakita ko lang yung kung ano ang kaya ko sa Circle,” Sangiao assured.
“Panalo ito,” he ended.
