Celebrity trainer takes on MMA challenge

SINGAPORE – Eugene Toquero has 4 wins on his professional MMA record, but his biggest challenge inside the cage could be what lies ahead at One FC: Moment of Truth this Friday, December 6.

Toquero previously displayed his wares at Pacific Xtreme Combat, before catching One FC’s attention winning his first 4 fights by technical knockout (TKO). Impressively, only one of his opponents was able to make it out of the 1^st round.

Though Toquero, who sidelines as a personal trainer at Ultimate Fitness Gym in Metro Manila, is little known to casual MMA fans, the hardcore fight scene has taken notice, including some high profile clients.

Toquero lists Luis Manzano, Michelle Madrigal, Richard Gutierrez, Polo Ravales, Geoff Eigenman, Sarah Lahbati, Bela Padilla, Kylie Padilla and Bubbles Paraiso as part of his star-studded clientele. And while his celebrity pupils are used to the spotlight, it’s Toquero’s turn to now bask in in the public eye as he steps into the cage to face fellow Pinoy warrior, Team Lakay’s Geje Eustaquio.

Formerly part of the national Muay Thai team, Toquero is adequate at striking which isn’t particularly a surprise, as most Filipino MMA practitioners are known for their exceptional hand to hand combat skills. What sets him apart is his undeniable killer instinct that has stopped all of his opponents so far.

As such, Toquero’s tenacity inside the cage is what most likely endeared him to his high-profile clients. It just goes to show that the Filipino fighting spirit can be found almost anywhere, even in the most unlikely of places.

Some of Toquero’s famous clients will be attending the event, which will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Their presence only adds to the growing spectacle of the fastest rising sport in the country.

Eustaquio on the other hand, is your traditional MMA hero. Training at the high altitudes of Baguio City, he has established himself as one of the best in Asia, even downing highly regarded Alex Silva of Evolve MMA, a bonafide Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belter.

Toquero and Eustaquio will compete at Flyweight and will serve the first match of the main card, providing a good, solid kickstarter to what should be an amazing night of mixed martial arts action.

Will Toquero continue on his winning ways and make Eustaquio his next knockout victim? Or will Eustaquio prove that Team Lakay’s training methodology is truly world class by halting Toquero’s rise to the top?

We’ll find out soon enough, as these fighters face each other inside the cage – such is the beauty and brutality of combat. – Rappler.com