ONE CHAMPIONSHIP: Team Lakay’s Banario win via split decision vs Thailand’s Wiratchai

Honorio Banario once again reigned the ONE Championship ring with a 2-1 split decision.

With a left knee on Banario’s temple on the first round, Team Lakay’s “The Rock '' did not back down to Thailand's Shannon Wiratchai.

Honorio Banario (15-10) flashed his prowess by trapping his opponent, Shannon Wiratchai, to the circle wall. After exchanging knee strikes, Banario was able to take down Wiratchai at the 1:10 mark. Maintaining to be on top position, the 30-year-old dominated the first round.

Wiratchai became aggressive on the second round. As soon as the round started, he threw kicks and punches to Banario. But Banario knew his opponent's moves and once again pinned the 31-year -old Thai on the circle ring. They exchanged knee strikes; Wiratchai tried to pull off  but Team Lakay’s “The Rock” flawlessly takedown the Thai athlete.

Wiratchai retaliated using a butterfly hook but Banario was able to maintain his top position.

The last round started with aggressive hooks and high kicks. Banario tried to take down Wiratchai, however, Thailand's “OneShin” seemed to pick up Team Lakay’s “The Rock” rhythm.

After several attempts, Banario was once again in the top position at the 1:45 mark. Unlike the first two rounds, Wiratchai was able to escape  Banario’s top position using a butterfly sweep.

After his second takedown to Wiratchai at the 0:33 mark, Banario finished the fight by being in the top position.

The ONE: King of the Jungle was held at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on February 28, 2020. It was a closed-door event due to the COVID-19 threat.

By Alyssa Castañares