As ONE Friday Fights 87 approaches, Filipino MMA fans have much to celebrate. National flyweight champion Eros Baluyot will debut under the ONE Championship banner, taking on Russian powerhouse Changy Kara-Ool in a three-round strawweight bout on November 15 at Bangkok’s famed Lumpinee Stadium.

Baluyot brings an impressive background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), marking him as a distinctive talent among Filipino fighters, who are traditionally known for striking prowess. The 32-year-old boasts a record of submission victories, including wins via armbar and triangle choke, adding to his reputation as a formidable and versatile competitor.

His upcoming opponent, Kara-Ool, is no stranger to success at Lumpinee Stadium, with two finishes already under his belt. However, Baluyot is unfazed by the challenge and aims to make his mark on the international stage with his grappling expertise. His most notable win includes a TKO victory over former ONE Strawweight World Title contender Rene Catalan, showcasing his strong takedowns and ground control.

This bout marks an active month for Filipino fighters across ONE Championship events. Recently, Marwin Quirante achieved a first-round TKO over Phan Thanh Tung in his debut, while Jayson Miralpez displayed solid grappling skills against Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt Robson de Oliveira.

Filipino fight fans also have much to look forward to this weekend. On November 9, Filipino-American star Jackie Buntan will compete for the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Championship against Anissa Meksen at ONE 169: Malykhin vs. Reug Reug. Additionally, Danny “The King” Kingad will return to action, facing #1-ranked Adriano Moraes in a long-awaited flyweight rematch.

Before Buntan and Kingad take the stage, Filipino athletes will also feature at ONE Friday Fights 86 on November 8. Islay Erika Bomogao debuts in a 100-pound catchweight Muay Thai bout against Japan’s Fuu, while rising MMA stars Carlos Alvarez and Fritz Biagtan gear up for their respective featherweight and flyweight clashes.

With Baluyot’s debut and the series of upcoming bouts, the spotlight shines on the Filipino fighting spirit, offering fans an action-packed November in Lumpinee Stadium.