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SACLAG delivers Philippines’ first silver medal in 2026 Asian Games

Writer: Leonora Lo-oy
Leonora Lo-oy
5 minutes ago
1 min read
SPORTS

NAGOYA, Japan — iKalinga fighter Jean Claude Saclag capped a hard-fought campaign at the 2026 Asian Games with a silver medal, delivering the Philippines’ first silver of the competition after reaching the men’s traditional MMA -65kg final.


Saclag’s bid for gold ended Tuesday, September 22, after he bowed to Otabek Rajabov of Tajikistan via unanimous decision in the championship bout.


Before reaching the final, Saclag powered past Saudi Arabia’s Saud Fawaz Almolhem, 3-0, in the quarterfinals, securing at least a bronze medal and a spot in the semifinals.


He then continued his charge by defeating Japan’s Daisuke Murayama, 3-0, via unanimous decision in the semifinals, booking his ticket to the gold-medal showdown against Rajabov.


Despite falling short in the final, Saclag made history as one of the Philippines’ first medalists in mixed martial arts at the Asian Games, where the sport made its official Asiad debut.


The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) hailed Saclag’s grit and determination, describing his podium finish as a landmark achievement for Philippine MMA.


Saclag’s silver added to the Philippines’ medal haul as Filipino athletes continue their campaign in the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, which runs until October 4.

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