WATCH: Jenel Lausa makes first media appearance as UFC fighter

MANILA, Philippines – After inking a multi-fight exclusive contract with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) earlier this month, homegrown talent Jenel Lausa made his first media appearance as an official fighter of the world’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization.

Lausa served as the curtain-raiser of No. 3 UFC featherweight contender Max Holloway’s open workout on Saturday, September 17, at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City. 

The 28-year-old native of Concepcion, Iloilo, worked on the punch mitts and kick pads with striking coach Noli Baluyot.

Jenel Lausa works on the punch mitts with striking coach Noli Baluyot. #UFCManila pic.twitter.com/StQjvi3QTB

— NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) September 17, 2016

Jenel Lausa shows a glimpse of his crisp kicks. #UFCManila pic.twitter.com/uImqqsVrJ5

— NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) September 17, 2016

Meanwhile, Lausa spent time on the mat by rolling with teammate and Pacific Xtreme Combat-signed competitor Ernie Braca before finally sitting down with the press to talk about his upcoming fight. 

Jenel Lausa plays on the mat with PXC fighter Ernie Braca. #UFCManila pic.twitter.com/9skKmwuF20

— NISSI ICASIANO (@Nissi_Icasiano) September 17, 2016

Lausa is set to make his highly-anticipated Octagon debut against Chinese combatant Yao Zhikui in a 3-round flyweight bout on the undercard of UFC Fight Night Manila 2, which takes place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on October 15. – Rappler.com