BRAVE Combat Federation returns to China for the third time on Friday, September 19, with Filipino rising talent Ian Paul “Choco” Lora making his promotional debut in Zhengzhou.

The 20-year-old lightweight from Daraga, Albay enters BRAVE CF 98 unbeaten at 3-0, bringing with him a growing reputation in the local MMA circuit. Fighting out of Lion’s Den MMA Academy in Bicol, Lora is known for his finishing instincts — one knockout, one submission, and a highlight-reel nine-second KO of Lolo Cruz last May that sent shockwaves through the Philippine MMA community.

Lora’s debut test against Owais Yaqoob

Standing across from Lora is India’s Owais Yaqoob, who also makes his BRAVE CF debut. Yaqoob carries a 3-1 record and rides a three-fight winning streak, capped by a second-round TKO earlier this year. His momentum and aggressive style promise a stern test for the young Filipino, who will look to replicate his fast-paced, high-finishing performances under the bright lights of the global stage.

Filipino presence growing in BRAVE CF

For Lora, victory in Zhengzhou could open doors to bigger fights within BRAVE CF, widely regarded as the most global MMA organization. The promotion has been steadily expanding its Filipino presence, recently signing Drex “T-Rex” Zamboanga. BRAVE CF 98 itself will be headlined by a rematch for the BRAVE CF Interim Featherweight World Title between Ukraine’s Omar Solomanov and Kazakhstan’s Rauan “Shymyr” Bekbolat.

Filipino fans can watch the nine-bout card live at watch.bravecftv.com, with action starting at 8:30 PM (local time).