Team Lakay’s Kevin Belingon has become more motivated than ever – as a mixed martial artist and as a father – thanks to his newborn daughter Kelsey.
The 32-year-old Belingon and wife Lee welcomed baby Kelsey Tuesday at the Notre Dame De Chartres Hospital in Baguio City.
Having conquered different challenges in life as an athlete, Belingon is ready to step up his game, this time as father and husband.
“Of course, I was very excited because we have been waiting for this for quite some time. It is the best feeling I’ve ever experienced,” the former ONE bantamweight champion said.
Due to certain restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Belingon recalled that he needed to wait outside the delivery room. But as soon as Kelsey was born, Belingon couldn’t help but hold her in his arms.
“I was very excited to see our baby for the first time. The original plan was that I’m supposed to be with my wife during the delivery,” he added.
Belingon has joined the growing list of fathers in Team Lakay, including Eduard Folayang, Danny Kingad, Geje Eustaquio.
READ: Amid COVID-19 pandemic, Team Lakay banks on online, social media presence
With his comeback in ONE Championship, Belingon vowed to zero in on a world title shot with baby Kelsey serving as his biggest motivation and inspiration.
Belingon, who holds a 20-7 professional mixed martial arts record, needs to climb up the leaderboard and bounce back from twin losses he suffered against rival Bibiano Fernandes.
“Family has always been my first priority. Having a child in that picture makes me level up my game as the head of the family,” said Belingon. “I feel more motivated in everything in life right now, especially in providing a good future for our child.”