By GABRIEL KATUHO
FIDELIS Pilai is among 30 PNG kickboxers who will be participating in the World Kickboxing championships in Spain this November.
In an interview with Sunday Bulletin newspaper Pilai said he is the only fighter from the 30 who will represent PNG in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
“It will be challenging but I am prepared to face it as I have been fighting inside PNG for over a decade,” he said.
“Currently in my armature level, I hold three categories; 64Kg in 2014, 67Kg in 2015 and 70Kg in 2017.
“I turned pro in Kickboxing federation and will represent PNG and my province in the world championships in Europe this year,” Pilai said.
The fighters are training at the Taurama Aquatic Centre with the help of the PNG Kickboxing federation and PNG High performance.
“It’s good that lots of fighters will attend to showcase our talent there.
“In that way we can learn from that experience and scale where we are in terms of standard so that we can work on improving where we need to.”
Mr. Pilai said the federation under the leadership of president Stanley Nandex is working behind the clock for the fight.
Pilai is determined to unleash his potential in the code as he is only one fighter to compete in MMA.
“I know I will face some challenging fighters from parts of the world, especially Thailand so I’m polishing up on my Jujitsu techniques, submissions and others,” he said.
The East New Britain’s very own said he is ready to give it all till final round and if it possible claim the title for province and the country.
“Currently I’m isolating myself and concentrating on my upcoming fight.
“Keeping my mind fresh and doing things that will keep me stress free.”
Ahead of the November fight, Fidelis Pilai, who is part of the (Integrated MMA PNG) is taking up classes with Patrick Druma and the former head hunter Stanley Nandex.
