Reece McLaren Impresses In Flyweight Debut

Filipino-Australian Reece “Lightning” McLaren did not disappoint in his flyweight debut against Thailand’s Anatpong “Mak Mak” Bunrad.

On Friday, 10 November, at ONE: LEGENDS OF THE WORLD, it did not even take a full round for McLaren to finish his opponent with his slick black belt Brazilian jiu-jItsu game.

Near the end of the first round, the 26-year-old was able to secure a D’Arce choke, which sealed the deal on Bunrad and ended the action at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.

The first round began with kicks galore from Bunrad, but the always-composed McLaren shrugged it off with a smile. Midway through the stanza, “Lightning” was able to complete a double leg takedown and bring the contest where he wanted it.

Bunrad’s guard retention and control on the ground initially let him get back to the feet for a split second, but McLaren immediately drove in, picked his opponent up, and slammed the Phuket Top Team representative to the ground.

McLaren, a product of Australia’s Potential Unlimited Mixed Martial Arts, found his way to the mount position and locked in an arm-triangle choke, but Bunrad fought it off. Upon transition, the BJJ ace immediately adjusted to a D’Arce choke, which forced the tap from the Thai.

The end came with just eight seconds left in round one. McLaren is off to a lightning start in his new flyweight home. The former ONE Bantamweight World Title challenger elevates his record to 10-5.