Danny Kingad returns to ONE FC after a one-year hiatus

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

One of the most exciting Filipino fighters in the mixed martial arts (MMA) scene is back.

After a roller coaster ride derailed by injuries, Danny “The King” Kingad finally returns to the ONE Fighting Championship and will immediately face a tough task against “Wolf Warrior” Hu Yong.

The highly anticipated flyweight clash is scheduled as part of the undercard for ONE Fight Night 40 on Feb. 13, 2026, at the legendary Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Before agreeing to the fight, Kingad was coming off a disappointing two-fight stretch, losing back-to-back contests against Adriano Moraes and Yuya Wakamatsu.

After losing to Moraes in November 2024, Kingad decided to take a break from pro MMA but promised to come back stronger.

Kingad will now have the chance to walk his talk against the pride of Pattaya, Thailand—an up-and-coming stand-up specialist who relies on his striking ability.

Just like Kingad, Hu Yong is looking to end his ONE FC losing streak, having dropped his past two fights via decision against Sanzhar Zakirov and Reece McLaren.

A contrasting clash of styles will be on display, as Kingad has recently evolved from a pure striker to an all-around grappler, while Hu Yong has continued to rely on his boxing skills since turning professional.

However, Kingad holds the edge in experience, having entered the Asian MMA promotions in 2014. Upon turning pro, the Filipino quickly turned heads by winning nine out of his first 10 fights.

Kingad’s most notable wins include victories over Wakamatsu before their rematch, Muhammad Aiman, Haobin Ma, and Tatsumitsu Wada.

On the other hand, Hu Yong’s fight against Kingad will be a determining factor in whether he is ready for a ONE interim title shot in the flyweight division.

Hu Yong was close to getting a title shot call-up after securing big wins over Sung Hoon Woo and Geje Eustaquio, but his back-to-back losses evaporated those hopes.

Will Kingad make a triumphant ONE FC return? Or will Hu Yong prove that his stand-up prowess can overwhelm the Filipino’s complete arsenal?