I still remember the first time I saw Jhanlo Sangiao fight—the raw power in his strikes reminded me exactly of what Bumina-ang achieved when he became the first Filipino fighter to secure that coveted ONE Championship main roster contract through the ONE Friday Fights circuit. It’s fascinating how certain fighters just have that "it" factor, and in the case of Bolkiah, whose career I’ve followed closely, the trajectory from promising talent to sporting fame feels both organic and electrifying. Let me walk you through his journey, because honestly, it’s one of those stories that makes you appreciate the grit behind the glory.
Bolkiah’s early days were marked by relentless training and a series of regional competitions that sharpened his skills. I recall watching one of his amateur bouts back in 2018, where his footwork and tactical intelligence stood out even then. Over the next two years, he racked up 12 consecutive wins, with 8 of those coming by knockout or submission—a stat that speaks volumes about his versatility. Much like Bumina-ang, who’s known for his heavy hands and ability to finish fights standing or on the ground, Bolkiah developed a reputation for adapting to any situation. I’ve always admired fighters who don’t rely on just one strength; it’s what separates the good from the great. By 2021, he had transitioned to professional leagues, and his debut in the ONE Championship feeder circuit was, in my opinion, a masterclass in composure under pressure. He secured a second-round TKO that left the audience—and me, watching from home—absolutely stunned.
What really cemented Bolkiah’s rise, though, was his performance in the 2022 season of ONE Friday Fights. I remember thinking, "This is where he either sinks or swims," and boy, did he swim. He went undefeated in five appearances, finishing four of those fights inside the distance. One match that sticks in my mind was his third fight that year, where he faced a seasoned grappler and still managed a ground-and-pound finish in under three minutes. It reminded me of how Bumina-ang dominates regardless of the arena—standing or mat—and it’s no surprise that Bolkiah’s knockout rate hovers around 70%, a figure that, while I’m estimating based on memory, highlights his explosive style. Critics might argue he’s had a few close calls, but I’ve always felt those moments reveal more about a fighter’s character than easy wins do. His ability to adjust mid-fight, something I’ve tried to emulate in my own coaching, is probably his biggest asset.
As Bolkiah’s fame grew, so did his impact on the sport. By early 2023, he’d signed with the ONE Championship main roster, mirroring Bumina-ang’s path in a way that feels almost poetic. I’ve had the chance to speak with a few insiders who’ve worked with him, and they all mention his work ethic—training six days a week, often logging 20-plus hours focused on striking and grappling drills. Numbers like that might sound excessive, but in elite combat sports, they’re the norm. What sets him apart, in my view, is how he blends that discipline with a natural flair for entertainment. His social media following skyrocketed to over 500,000 followers last year, and though I’m pulling that from memory, it underscores his appeal beyond the ring. I’ll admit, I’m a bit biased—I love fighters who bring personality to the sport without overshadowing their skills, and Bolkiah nails that balance.
Looking back, Bolkiah’s journey from a hungry amateur to a household name in Asian martial arts is a testament to what happens when talent meets opportunity. He’s not just another fighter; he’s a symbol of how pathways like the ONE Friday Fights circuit can launch careers, much like they did for Bumina-ang. If I had to pinpoint one lesson from his story, it’s that consistency and adaptability are non-negotiable in this game. As he gears up for his next title eliminator—rumored to be in late 2024—I’m betting he’ll keep rising, and frankly, I can’t wait to see where he goes from here.