4 reasons why Malaysians should be excited about Keanu Subba's return

Malaysia’s most exciting mixed martial arts talent, Keanu Subba, returns to action this Friday, 3 May, on the ONE: FOR HONOR card against Japanese debutant Ryogo Takahashi.

The three-round featherweight battle will pit two world-class athletes against each other, and the winner could take a huge leap closer towards the ONE Featherweight World Title, currently in possession of Martin Nguyen.

Malaysians should be roaring in support of the two-time MIMMA Champion, and if you aren’t, here are four reasons why you must be excited about his return.

#1 A creative martial artist

The 24-year-old Kuala Lumpur-based hero has it all — whether it’s on the ground, in the striking department, or on the defense. To top that off, he also possesses a very high 'fight IQ.’

Subba strikes with the tiniest of openings and can sense when he is on a disadvantage, as seen in his promotional debut against Florian Garel in October 2015.

Despite going up against a tough opponent, Subba patiently picked his way to a win via TKO at 4:51 of the opening stanza.

#2 A knack for finishing opponents

Whenever the Monarchy MMA representative is in the Circle – expect a finish.

All his victories in ONE Championship have come inside round one, the most impressive of the lot coming in the form of his last appearance against Myanmar’s Phoe Thaw in October.

His ability to get a stoppage victory has improved tremendously, and on paper, Subba seems set to maintain his hot-streak against Takahashi in Indonesia.

#3 A big warrior spirit

Subba always thrives when the odds are stacked against him.

When Ahmed Mujtaba traveled to Kuala Lumpur to challenge him in February 2017, many said the Malaysian martial artist stood no chance against an undefeated athlete. However, he silenced their voices with a timely guillotine choke.

It was a similar affair, too, when he visited Phoe Thaw’s hometown in Yangon, Myanmar last year.

These two battles not only proved he is a top athlete, but it made a statement – that nothing can come in the way of Subba’s grit and determination.

#4 A formidable striking game

Despite being known for his awe-inspiring ability on the canvas, Subba’s key to victory has always been his striking.

Subba is an aggressive athlete who will not back down until he hears the bell or the referee stoppage. In fact, some of his finest opponents like Waqar Umar, Christian Lee, Li Kai Wen, and even Mujtaba have tasted his excellence in this department.

Will his striking reign supreme in Jakarta against Takahashi this Friday?